Kiteboards

Choose the Perfect Kiteboard for Your Water Adventures

Selecting the appropriate kiteboarding board is a crucial decision for enhancing your surfing experience. Yet, with a vast array of boards available, it can be a bit overwhelming for novices. Here, we guide you through two vital factors to take into account when acquiring a kiteboard: size and style.

Determining the Correct Size of Kiteboard

When it comes to size, both length and width are important factors. Generally speaking, the heavier you are, the larger your board should be. A common board size ranges from 135 cm to 145 cm in length and about 40 cm to 46 cm in width. This board size would be suitable for beginners in the sport weighing approximately 70 - 85 kg (154 - 187 lb).

However, the appropriate size for you also depends on your level of expertise, the weather conditions, and your preferred riding style. For instance, if you frequently kite in choppy conditions, you might opt for a shorter board measuring around 127 - 135 cm in length.

Selecting Your Preferred Kiteboard Style

There is an extensive variety of kitesurfing boards available to accommodate all skill levels and boarding styles. Generally, the primary distinction lies between twin tip and directional kiteboards.

Twin Tip Kiteboards

A Twin Tip board is the most prevalent and versatile form of kiteboard. A twin tip means that the board is symmetrically designed at both ends, allowing it to be ridden in either direction. It resembles a wakeboard in its design and typically includes foot straps and pads. This type of board can be utilised for nearly every kitesurfing discipline and excels at freestyle, freeride, and wakestyle boarding. Learning is generally more straightforward with a twin tip board.

Directional Kiteboards

This type of kiteboard closely resembles a traditional surfboard. They usually lack straps and are crafted to ride the waves, much like a surfboard. While you may not achieve high speeds on smooth water, directional boards are excellent for carving and executing sharp turns. It also necessitates a different posture compared to a twin tip, with more weight placed on the front foot rather than the back.

If you're interested in discovering more about boards and the other kiteboarding gear you'll require, check out our guide on Buying Kitesurfing Gear.