Is Your Kite Shape Right for Your Style?
Kitesurfing is all about how the kite flies. With so many kites available, picking the right one can be confusing. Even experienced riders sometimes use the wrong kite for their style.
Let’s break down how different kite shapes affect performance, so you can choose better.
Three Important Kite Shape Factors
- Arch Shape
- Bridle System
- Aspect Ratio
Arch Shape and Bridle System
Kites have different arch shapes. Some are steep, called C-kites, and others are flat, like Bow kites. Flat kites look like a bow from the front, while Delta kites have a straight edge.
The arch shape affects how the kite lifts and stays stable. Flat kites give more lift and power. Steeper kites are better for stability and control. During our kite surfing lessons in Dubai we tend to use only Delta shape kites as the kite is more forgiving and easier to relaunch from the water.
The bridle system supports the kite. Flat kites need more support to keep their shape. C-kites might not need a bridle, but modern ones use it to help with launching and stability.
The bridle system also helps with the kite’s angle. Flat kites can adjust more easily, giving better control and safety. C-kites have less adjustment but are good for tricks.
Different Kite surfing kites Shapes
- Flat Kites
- More lift and power
- Works in a wide range of winds
- Good hang time in jumps
- More safety due to depower
- C-Kites
- Better side stability
- Good for tricks and drifting
- More responsive steering
Aspect Ratio
Aspect ratio is the kite’s width compared to its height. High aspect ratio kites are long and thin, while low aspect ratio kites are wide and short.
High aspect ratio kites are fast and efficient. They’re good for lift but can be tricky in gusty winds and slow to turn. Low aspect ratio kites turn quickly, handle gusts better, and are easier to relaunch.
Choosing the Right Kite
Here’s a guide:
- All Around/Hybrid: Good for many riders. Balances different shapes.
- Beginners: Pick a mid or low aspect ratio kite. Easier to handle kite surf beginner and for the kite surfing lessons in Dubai.
- Wave Riding: Choose a low aspect ratio kite for stability and easy relaunch.
- Big Air: High aspect ratio kites are best for big jumps.
- Race: High aspect ratio and flat shapes are best for speed.
- Unhooked/Wake Style: Steep arch kites are good for power and drift control.
We added a graph with popular kite brands and models. At our kite surf shop in Dubai we sell Cabrinha kites, Eleveight kites and many type of kite surfing accessories like Mystic, Brunotti and Dakine.
What do you think? Do you agree? Let us know below!
