Here at MACkite boardsports center we are often asked this time of year, “What size snowkite do I need?” On most occasions my reply is, “What kind of snowkiting?” While I usually try not to answer a question with another, the terrain and style of riding will dictate the type and best kite size.
With kitesurfing, the kiteboard kite size is mostly dependent on wind
speed and rider weight. The more wind, the smaller the kite; larger the rider, larger the kite. For kiteboarding on water you must reach a planing speed in order to stay atop the water; this is not the case for snowkiting as you will remain on top of the snow regardless of the speed. For this reason, we often argue that snowkiting is easier to learn than kiteboarding on water. It allows the rider to focus on kite skill and riding position rather than just the logistics of boardstarts and relaunch. Snowkiting also allows the rider to practice with less power making it safer and less intimidating. Learning on water in 18mph wind requires a 12m kite such as a Cabrinha Switchblade for a normal rider. With the same rider and wind speed on snow, it is fully possible to ride with a 5m kite such as the Cabrinha Vector.
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