Types of Surf Kites
There are many different kinds of surf kites on the market. A surf kite is a kite used to allow the passenger to glide above a body of water. Anyone wishing to begin kite surfing is urged by experts in the industry to take classes from a qualified teacher rather than teaching themselves.
-
Bow Kites
-
Bow kites, also known as flat kites, are shaped differently than a traditional kite. A bow kite gets its name from the wings of the kite that are shaped like a bow. In the past, traditional kites have been shaped like the letter C. Now most kites are flatter, giving them a bigger wind range. Since flat kites hit the market in 2005, they have become the most popular choice for those who fly kites, whether they are beginners or experts. Flat kites are operated using a pulley and line control bars.
C Kites
-
C kites have no bridle, while other types of surf kites do. A bridle refers to the multiple strings attached to the spine of the kite to help control it while it is in the air. The C kite is an older version of the bow kite. It was the original type of kite that allowed people to fly through the sky. C kites were used when giving kite lessons back in 2000. As of 2010, C kites have become less popular with fliers.
Hybrid Kites
-
Kite flying instructors recommend that beginners use a hybrid kite. The hybrid kite is made of two fabric layers and is a subdivision of the bow kite. A hybrid kite is a cross between a C kite and a bow kite. Hybrid kites are the most popular choice of surf kites. As of 2010, 90 percent of all surf kites were hybrid kites. Some hybrid kites do have more bridles than others. Hybrid kites combine the best features of the C kite and the bow kite.
Advantages And Disadvantages
-
There are pros and cons to each type of surf kite. C kites are difficult to use and could be unsafe for beginners. The reason C kites are more difficult to use than others is that the C kite has almost no de-power. De-powering involves allowing the rider to fly without the kite putting physical pressure on them. C kites do give the rider the feeling that he is closely connected to the kite, which makes the ride feel smoother for many fliers. Bow kites are designed to be safe for beginners and they cover a larger wind range than their counterparts.
-
