Need advice: what size kite(s) to use for Hood River?

nedrager · Since 10 Jul 2007 19 Posts Hood River

Sup' guys just getting into this sport and finding the choices of equipment is dizzying. This has probably been answered before but I couldn't find any threads on it so....I weigh around 215lbs and was wondering what size kite would be good for Hood River? Any particular brands are better than average? Thanks!

Mark · Tue Jul 10, 07 2:36 pm

Must resist urge to say "Naish is best" Laughing

Get a lesson and 9m and 12 meter. Then a 7 meter.

Spike · Since 13 May 2007 1414 Posts Alameda Spelling Expert

For SLE ("bow") kites you really only need two kites, for you prob 9 and 14, though if your willing to spend $$ I'm sure 7, 9 and 14 would be even nicer, just for the really extreme days. I agree also, take at least a lesson or two. Here's an example of what happens if you don't take a lessons and buy a nice new kite: http://www.nwkite.com/forums/t-5214.html&highlight=launching

magicmaker · Since 29 Oct 2006 895 Posts da Hood Opinionated

lesson first, then 9m and 13m fuels

jbruxer · Since 24 Jul 2005 398 Posts Beaverton, OR Obsessed

Hey nedrager, I just started kiteboarding last year and would be happy to give you my opinions...for what it's worth! Feel free to send me a PM.

...ps, beware the dreaded "which kites are best" topic!...you'll see what happens! Laughing

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

Talk to your instructor when you TAKE A LESSON Laughing

All things aside, after a 2M trainer, people need instruction. Hell, I still need instruction and I bet most people on this forum ask "how the hell did you do that Shocked

"

nedrager · Since 10 Jul 2007 19 Posts Hood River

thanks for the advice guys. I have a lead on a mostly new 17m Cabrihna Element for $200. To big for Hood River? I'll be heading to the beach (Cannon or Newport) occasionally as well. Would the 9 and 12 still work as well? How 'bout a board? What size would work for me? I'm around 5'10. Thanks again! BTW: lessons are on the way!

Nak · Tue Jul 10, 07 7:42 pm

Hi!

I'm your size, so here's my recommendation: Nothing bigger than a 15 for the Hood. In a C kite, ONLY get a 5 line kite. (Preferably with a sheetable fifth line.) Skip the 4 line C kites regardless of cost. (Some C kites can be converted to 5 line...) You may need a bigger kite for other parts of the state, but before you go bigger try a light wind board like a Glide.

I'd say a 9 and a 14 in a flat kite (+/- 1) or an 11 and a 15 in a 5 line C kite. These would be for less than 25 mph. You should avoid winds greater than 20 till you have some experience, and then you should avoid > 25 for a while too.

Get your lessons before you buy. You might change your mind as to what you want afterwards...

Just my 2 cents

mschulz · Since 29 May 2007 530 Posts Reno, NV Addicted

Definitely get a lesson and your instructor will give you the best recommendation on size.