newbie here looking for input on trainer kite & lessons

doughboy · Since 14 Jul 2006 2 Posts Porland, OR New Member

I am looking to start kiteboarding very soon - have been a snowboarder and wakeboarder for many many years - some windsurfing a while back

Looks like lessons are the way to go - but too many choices in HR - any recommendations:

a few are listed below...

http://www.hoodriverwaterplay.com/kiteboarding_lessons.htm

http://www.gorgekite.com/page-3-1.htm

http://www.brianswindsurfing.com/bws_klessons.htm

http://www.allsurfindustry.com/kiteboard.htm

http://www.bigwinds.com/lessons/kiteboarding.asp

http://gorgekiteboardschool.com/

some are IKO, some are PASA - any one curriculum better?

http://www.ikorg.com/student_standards.php?menu_id=1

some start with trainer kites - some start with 4 line kites

I am about 200 lbs with gear, etc - should I buy my own trainer kite? 2M or 3M - good brands ?? or wait and buy a longer term kite after lessons and some water time?

shall I buy instructional DVD and/or books?

thanks in advance

doughboy

EdG · Since 19 Dec 2005 424 Posts Just a Kook that's Obsessed

look at this link.
http://www.nwkite.com/forums/t-1775.html

Amery is no longer at ASI, but Nate has taken over the lessons. Read the full post for the best info.

Welcome to the world of Kites. I was just on my kiteboard pulled behind a boat. What a difference Shocked

I may be buying a wakeboard and leave it in NY b/c it's fun and very different from Kiting! It will take some time to get used to the difference.

See you on the water Laughing

ED

pkh · Since 27 Feb 2005 6548 Posts Couve / Hood Site Lackey

You missed these guys: http://www.newwindkiteboarding.com

Inept_Fun · Since 14 Apr 2005 1417 Posts Hood River XTreme Poster

Yeah definately dont forget New Wind, I learned from them and the instruction was definately awesome! Theyre programs have also come a long way since when I learned, I would say they have the best lessons in the Gorge.

wheels · Since 14 May 2005 29 Posts

I taught for a few years myself in the Gorge. Some of the most experienced instructors there are Carlos 541.490.3197 and Craig who teaches for Big Winds.

Unless they've changed their ways the past few years, definately stay clear of waterplay.

Fly a trainer kite as much as you can before a lesson, and a DVD wouldn't hurt... especially one that gives you some ideas about wind theory and skills you can practice before your lesson. You'll get way more out of your lesson if you come in with good kite flying skills. Other than that, I suggest going to your lesson with an open mind and ready to have a blast!

If you've ever imagined what it would be like to do a 30 foot double-up, after your lesson you'll be well on your way to finding out what it feels like!

Cheers,
Wheels

shredjim · Since 07 Jun 2006 186 Posts Stoked

Hey Doughboy,

I agree with wheels, get your trainer work done before you take a lesson. Practice flying the kite on one side of the wind window ie. 11:30 to 10:00 and 12:30 to 2:00 as you need that concept well understood before you get near a board.

BUT don't forget us http://www.kiteboardoregon.com we teach you how to ride, and leave out the history of kiteboarding part Very Happy

pdxmonkeyboy · Tue Jul 18, 06 1:30 pm

Dude, you don't want to learn how to kiteboard. It's expensive, dangerous, and the beaches are two crowded.

Have you thought of windsurfing? Razz

wheels · Since 14 May 2005 29 Posts

shredjim · Since 07 Jun 2006 186 Posts Stoked

[/quote]
I didn't realize you were teaching this year Jimmy. Otherwise I would have recommended you as well. Doughboy, yes, don't forget about Kiteboard Oregon! He's a great guy, experienced instructor and he can play a mean guitar![/quote]

Jimmy teaches sometimes, but I'm the other Jim who has been teaching most of our lessons this year in Hood River!

qldman · Since 07 Jul 2006 2 Posts New Member

These guys are right have a good play with a trainer first and get used to the kite.

You'll get a heap more out of the lesson.

And remember this might happen......
http://kiteboarding-kitesurfing.blogspot.com/2006/07/erik-ecks-kitesurfing-airtime-and.html

think I have posted that link befor but it still cracks me up.