Can you mix and match kiteboarding brands?

Yes, you can absolutely mix and match brands in your kitesurfing setup! Imagine pairing a North bar with a Duotone kite, or an F-One board with Naish bindings. While some folks will say you must be loyal to one brand for true harmony on the water, the truth is, it’s all about what works and feels right for you.

To get things started, let me just say, my own gear is a bit of a kaleidoscope: I use an F-One kite with an F-One bar, a Core safety leash, a Ride Engine harness outfitted with a Mystic spreader bar and a North directional board. So I’m definitely not an “all-one-brand” purist.

Aesthetics vs. functionality

Sure, there’s an undeniable aesthetic to sticking to one brand; everything looks super coordinated, the colors and design match, and let’s be real, it’s Instagram-worthy. But if you’re up for a custom setup, read on for the finer points to consider when mixing brands – because there are a few compatibility quirks that can make or break your session.

1. Kite and bar: The power couple

The kite and bar are where functionality really matters. A well-matched kite and bar setup can mean the difference between a smooth ride and a day of frustration. Here are some details to look for:

Compatibility concerns:

Not all kite and bar combinations are equal. Safety systems, line lengths, and connection points vary widely between brands, so it’s essential to check if your kite and bar will play nicely together. An incompatible setup can affect how your kite flies, its power control, and even safety features – so definitely no room for shortcuts here!

• Line split (Y or V): Most kites use a low-V split, which makes them more versatile across brands. But if you’re working with brands like Duotone, Core, or F-One, these sometimes feature a high-Y split that can be trickier to match with bars from other brands.

• Pigtails: Many brands have unique pigtail connections, but the good news is you can often solve this with universal adapters or by swapping pigtails.

• Safety system compatibility: The safety system on your bar should always align with the kite’s design for reliable safety. This is one place to make absolutely no concessions – it’s essential that your safety system is ready to work smoothly when you need it most.

Pro tip:

If you’re testing a new brand’s bar, be sure it’s equipped with a compatible depower system and matches your kite’s line configuration. And to play it safe, try out the setup in low-wind conditions first to get a feel for it.

2. Board and bindings: Balancing comfort and control

Bindings keep you grounded – literally – so they should fit securely with your board. But mixing brands here has its own quirks, and it’s definitely worth testing on shore first. Many bindings work well across boards, but some brands use unique bolt patterns that might not fit other brands' boards. There’s no bigger bummer than getting to the beach, ready to ride, only to discover your bindings won’t stay on.

A word of caution:

If bindings don’t fit well, they can feel uncomfortable or, worse, come loose mid-session. Test them on shore and do a few practice moves to make sure they’re locked in.

3. Fins and boards: The stabilizing force

Fins tend to be a bit more flexible when it comes to brand mixing, although it’s still worth double-checking if you’re going for a smooth session.

Most fins are forgiving across brands, but some boards use unique fin box types or screws. Directional boards, in particular, often need a certain fin box type – but as long as you know what you need, this is usually straightforward. Just make sure you’re matching your board’s fin box type to avoid “lost fin” surprises mid-session.

Tips for fin picking:

Choose fins that complement your riding style. Bigger fins offer more stability, while smaller fins allow for greater maneuverability. And a little reminder for trips: fins are one of those items that are easy to forget! Most people remove them to avoid breakage in transit, so don’t forget to pack both the fins and the screws for your destination.

4. Harness and spreader bar: A flexible fit?

When it comes to harnesses and spreader bars, you have a little more flexibility to mix brands. Many spreader bars fit comfortably in harnesses from different brands, although there are still a few things to keep in mind.

Are they compatible?

Some harness brands have proprietary spreader bar fittings, making it tricky to mix and match. Brands usually design harnesses and spreader bars with their own models in mind for the perfect fit, but you can often make it work with other brands if you double-check.

What to watch for:

If your spreader bar isn’t secure, it may shift during your session, leading to discomfort or worse – a painful slip mid-ride. Test the lock-in points and, if possible, give the spreader bar a tug under tension before heading out.

5. Leash and safety gear: A pair you don’t want to mess with

Leashes are essential safety gear, so it’s important to make sure your setup is secure. While many leashes are universal, there can be differences in attachment points and release mechanisms across brands.

Quick safety check:

Always test the quick-release mechanism on your leash and make sure it works smoothly. This is especially critical if you’re mixing brands, as you want to ensure that your emergency brake is as reliable as possible.

6. Bonus tips: Directional boards, wetsuits, and beyond

• Directional boards: You can even use a standard surfboard if you want! Kite-specific directional boards are generally built to withstand greater force and wear, but if you’re in a pinch, a regular surfboard can work too.

• Wetsuits: Kite brands make wetsuits suited for impact and harness wear, but surf brands work just as well if that’s more your style. 

Final thoughts: The art of the mix-and-match

At the end of the day, mixing brands isn’t about being rebellious – it’s about creating the right combination that elevates your ride. Whether you’re a loyalist or a free spirit, safety, comfort, and performance should come first. Test new setups, ask questions, and get advice from other kitesurfers – and don’t be afraid to get creative!

xox Berit