What's the difference between a big air, freeride, and wave kite?
If you’re thinking, “A kite is just a kite, right?” – think again! Each type of kite is like a tool in a kitesurfer's toolbox, designed for a specific job. Sure, you could use a hammer to stir your coffee, but it’s not going to end well, is it? Similarly, you can use any kite for any discipline, but some will do the job a whole lot better than others.
Let’s break it down and figure out what makes a big air, freeride, or wave kite tick.
Kite Shapes: From "C" to shiny pancakes
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, you need to know that kites come in different shapes, ranging from the C-shaped kite (imagine a banana with attitude) to the flat kite (think pancake with wings). But if you are not a graphic thinker, here you go:
Left: flat kite
Right: C-shape
These shapes directly affect how a kite behaves in the air. C-kites are built for freestyle, giving you a stable platform for tricks. Flat kites, with their broader surface area, are the go-to for big air and freeride because they provide maximum lift.
Aspect ratio and angle of attack: The kite's body type
Now, let's talk about aspect ratio – the proportion between the surface area of your kite and its wingspan – and how it works with the angle of attack (the kite’s angle relative to the wind).
High aspect ratio: Long and skinny. These kites fly faster and sit closer to the edge of the wind window, which is great for insane hang time during jumps. They also have a bigger angle of attack; when you pull the bar, the kite shifts dramatically to catch more wind, giving you a powerful lift. These kites are efficient with less drag, but they can feel a bit twitchy and unstable in gusty winds.
Low Aspect Ratio: Short and stubby. These kites are easier to handle, more forgiving, and stable – perfect for beginners or those who prefer a smoother ride. With a smaller angle of attack, pulling the bar doesn’t create as much of a lift, making the kite more predictable and steady. These kites are also great in gusty conditions and quick to relaunch when you crash – which is a bonus when you're learning!
So, what’s the best kite for big air, freeride, and wave riding?
Here’s a quick guide to help you find your perfect match:
Big air kites: If you want to go high, think flat kite with a higher aspect ratio. These kites are designed for lift. Their shape and design mean they pull you up rather than forward, so when you pull that bar in, you’re going up, up, and away – and hopefully landing with style.
Freeride Kites: These are the jack-of-all-trades kites. A bit of everything – a little C-shape, a little flat, a nice medium aspect ratio. They’re not the best at any one thing, but they’re good at almost everything. Whether you’re cruising, carving, or just hanging out on the water, these kites will keep you happy and upright.
Wave Kites: If you’re chasing waves, you want a kite that drifts well and reacts quickly – that’s a kind of C-shaped kite with a lower aspect ratio. These kites give you a mix of lift and lateral pull, so you can focus on carving up those waves without worrying about getting yanked off your board. Plus, they’re stable, so you don’t have to fight the kite while you ride.
Conclusion: Pick the right tool for the job!
While every kite can do a bit of everything, choosing the right one for your preferred style will make a world of difference. So, whether you're aiming for the moon with big air, cruising the coast with freeride, or carving waves like a pro, there’s a kite out there waiting to be your new best friend.
Now go grab your gear and get out there – the wind is calling! 🌊💨
xox Berit