How to choose a training kite

19. 11. 2023

A training kite, there's not much to deal with. Well, the opposite is true, they all look almost the same in the photo, but the differences between them are big. We will gradually look at training kits according to essential criteria and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each type. It will take into account only so-called fixed kites (without the possibility of changing the power by changing the profile), because kites with depower already move in a completely different price range and even in small sizes can be considered full-fledged kites.

 

Division by canopy

Open cell foil kites

An open cell kites are probably the most common type of training kites.

+ affordable
+ a large selection of different models and manufacturers
- cannot be used on water

 

Closed cell foil kites

A closed cell foil kite is a less common type of training kite that is used especially where the kite needs to be restarted from the water, this is possible due to the closed leading edge that keeps water out of the kite and allows it to be restarted.

+ very stable canopy
+ easy restarts
+ also usable on water
- higher price
- smaller selection
 

 

Single skin

The single-layer construction of the kite reduces the amount of material on the canopy and thus its weight. A lighter kite is usually able to fly in weaker winds. This type of kite therefore excels in light winds, when it is easy to control and thanks to its construction, it also has more thrust for a given size compared to other types of training kites. Another advantage is great impact resistance, when there is no risk of overpressurizing the kite and tearing the ribs as with chamber constructions.

+ good properties in light winds
+ affordable
+ great resistance to impact with the ground
- less stability in strong winds
- cannot be used on water
 

 

Division by control

Loops (2 lines)

The cheapest variant of all control systems, but at the same time the most limited in control options, it is mostly used on small size kites and for children due to its simplicity.

+ cheap option
- fewer control options
- hard restarts
- different controls than large dragons
 

 

Handles (4 lines)

A good choice for anyone, who does not have the ambition to gradually switch to a large kite, or to use the kite for skating or longboarding. Fun control system, allowing full and varied control over the dragon.

+ various options for controlling the kite
+ good restarts
+ safety cord option
- higher price
- different controls than large dragons
 

 

Bar (2 lines)

A cheap option especially for children, for its simplicity and safety (the bar can be released at any time and is not tied to anything). At the same time, it creates habits of control with the harness from the beginning and forms a good basis for transferring to larger towing kites with depower.

+ lower price
+ controls similar to large kites
+ possibility to drive with 1 hand
- hard restarts
- fewer control options
 

 

Bar (3 lines)

Control is practically the same as with the 2 line bar. The third line is used for easy restarts and landings of the kite and, in combination with the safety leash, as a safeguard against the kite flying away, when the bar is dropped or thrown away. It is mainly used on more powerful training kites. The advantage of reeling on the third middle line is symmetrical reeling and little chance of tangling the kite.

+ controls similar to large kites
+ possibility to drive with one hand
+ easy restarts
+ safety cord
- higher price
- fewer control options
 

 

Bar (4 lines + depower)

Here we are reaching the border between training and classic (adult) kits, not only in terms of control but also in price. Control using the depower bar is the same as the large dragons. However, some kits are made with a focus on complete beginners and therefore I will also include them in this article. The beginner's depower kite is especially suitable for gifted children and cautious adults, not only for learning, but also for later riding, mainly for high safety and very easy handling compared to "adult" depower kites.

From the offer of the local e-shop, these are specifically the Flysurfer Viron and Flysurfer Hybrid kites. Both of these kites are very versatile due to their closed cell design and can be used on water as well as on land. In addition, the Hybrid is extremely light and flies in minimal wind, which is an advantage for the possibility of safe training in the wind, when the kite has little power and there are only a minimum of people on the water with the kites. The Flysurfer Hybrid will also not limit its more advanced user so much thanks to its decent ability to ride upwind.

+ control the same as they have big kits
+ possibility to drive with one hand
+ easy restarts
+ safety release of the kite
+ power control option (depower)
+ later use for driving
- higher price
 

 

Which size to choose?

Training kites can also be purchased in sizes from approx. 1 to 4 m2. Which size to choose? It can be said that a larger training kite is for a larger kiter. For an adult man, a training kite of 2.5 - 4 m2 will be the most suitable, on the other hand, a small kite of 1 - 1.5 m2 will be the most suitable for a child of 20 - 30 kg.

Hopefully this article will help in choosing a training kite for everyone who would like to buy one, but are not sure which one will be the best for them or someone they gift. If you don't know what to do even after reading the article, write in the comments for advice, consult with the seller, or sign up for a kiting course where you can try different kites.

Let it fly, Leguan