Power kites are very large kites designed to provide lift to a human being. Power kites are used in a range of sports including kite jumping, surfing and land boarding. The kite should provide enough lift and pull to add propulsion, but not so much that you become airborne or lose control.
Choosing Kite
Power kites are available in a wide variety of sizes, styles and materials. Foil and ram-air kites have a double layer of nylon and form the shape of an airfoil. Leading edge inflatable kites have internal air bladders that must be inflated before launch. LEIs float, making them ideal for water use, while foils and ram-airs are safer on potentially sharp terrain. Less complicated power kites are controlled by two strings, while high performance models may have as many as six. Training kites are reasonably small and easy to control, making them the best choice for beginners. Look for a training kite with a safety release mechanism.
Safety Considerations
Before you begin power kiting, you should already be comfortable flying a regular kite. Power kiting builds on the same basic techniques, but adds such additional complications as multiple strings and vastly increased lift. If you already know how to surf, wakeboard or ski, you may have a shorter learning curve, but these skills are not required.
Always err on the side of caution. Allow more space around the kite than you think you will need. Fly in lower wind speeds than you think you can comfortably manage. Keep your lines well away from people or animals, and never fly when thunderstorms are predicted. Pay close attention to power lines, rail lines and other obstacles within the vicinity.
Wind Window
The wind window is the space in which your kite can fly. It extends above and in front of you in a half-circle with a radius equal to the length of your lines. The lowest portion of the wind window is known as the power zone. This area provides the kite with the most lift.
The wind window is increased in high winds and decreased in lower wind speeds. You can extend the wind window with longer lines, but you may lose precision and accuracy. The wind window is the key to successful flying, but the learning curve is generally steep. Be patient and take your time with a training kite. Once you thoroughly understand the wind window and can use it to your advantage, you will be able to perform more advanced maneuvers with a higher-performance power kite.
Controlling Kite
When launching the kite, make sure that you let out exactly the same length of line on both strings. Let the kite settle into the wind a bit before trying to steer. Use slow, steady pressure to pull the kite to one side or the other. Short, quick movements are used in more advanced maneuvers, but in the beginning this will most likely cause your kite to crash. Visualize each movement that you want the kite to make, and gently move your hands accordingly. As you gain more experience, you will also begin moving your feet to assist with kite control.
Kite jumping, kite surfing and land boarding add another dimension to power kiting. Make sure that you are entirely comfortable controlling the kite before attempting to move on to these more advanced activities. It is always best to work with an instructor rather than trying to teach yourself how to do these sports.
Member Comments