The ultimate kitesurfing first aid kit
If you’ve ever tried to untangle your lines in 40 knots while bleeding from a mysterious foot cut. Kitesurfing is all fun and spray until someone forgets the reef is sharp, the sun is mean, or that chicken loops occasionally does whatever they want. That’s why having a proper first aid kit is like having a good kite pump: You don’t think you need it… until you do.
Why kitesurfers need a first aid kit
Between reef cuts, sunburns, blisters, jellyfish encounters, and the occasional ego injury, the beach can be a minefield of minor medical mayhem. But here’s the deal: The right supplies and basic first aid know-how can be the difference between calling it a day or simply patching up and catching the next gust.
Besides, have you ever tried finding a pharmacy near a remote kite spot with decent wind? It’s harder than nailing a strapless backroll on your first try.
Common kitesurf injuries
While kitesurfing’s injury rate isn’t sky-high compared to, say, competitive cheese rolling, certain types of injuries pop up more frequently. Remember, not every scrape is a DIY project. Some require a hospital visit, so keep your phone handy.
Cuts and abrasions: From kite lines that could slice through butter to those “graceful” sand drags, these are the bread and butter (or should we say, sand and salt?) of kiting injuries.
Sprains and strains: Ankles, knees, and wrists seem to have a knack for going rogue during those “almost landed it” moments.
Head injuries: Boards playing boomerang and unexpected collisions are a no-go. Helmets are your best friend, think of them as your brain's bodyguard.
The must-pack essentials for your kitebag
Now that we've had a slightly wince-inducing look at what can go wrong, let's talk about how to build your personal kitesurfing first aid dream team. The key is to assemble a kit that is compact, lightweight, and absolutely waterproof, ready to tackle those common kitesurfing kerfuffles. After all, a soggy bandage is about as helpful as a kite with no wind.
You don’t need to carry an entire hospital in your backpack. But you do need to pack smart. Here’s your no-BS, wind-proof checklist:
Antiseptic wipes: Clean cuts before you wrap them like a burrito.
Waterproof plasters: For when your foot finds that one hidden shell.
Gauze pads and tape: Because sometimes a sticker just won’t cut it.
Tweezers: Sea urchins are not a vibe.
Scissors: Kite lines, bandages, cut with purpose.
Elastic bandage: For unexpected ankle drama.
Painkillers: You vs. the reef, round two.
Sting relief or hydrocortisone cream: For jellyfish, bugs, or weird plants.
Aloe vera gel: Burned? Slather, chill, repeat.
Emergency foil blanket: Wind chill is real, post-session shivers are worse.
Gloves: For handling blood or assisting others, channel your inner medic.
Safety pins and a CPR face shield: Tiny tools, big impact.
A mini first aid guide: Because Googling “how to stop bleeding” mid-session is not ideal.
Smart extras for the overachievers
If you’re heading somewhere remote, tropical, or just extra spicy (hello Morocco or Sri Lanka), consider a few more things:
Water purification tablets
Antihistamines
Antidiarrheal meds
Blister pads
Electrolyte sachets
If it sounds like something that lives in your grandma’s drawer, pack it. You’ll thank her spirit later.
Situational awareness beats heroism
Having supplies is one thing. Knowing how to use them without panicking is another. Take five minutes before your trip to brush up on basic first aid. Or better: Take a proper course. You’ll be the MVP of the beach (and not just because you land jumps).
Beyond the basic kit, there are a few extra steps you can take to enhance your safety on the water. Always remember to apply a generous layer of broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen before you even think about rigging up your kite. And don't forget your lips! A lip balm with SPF is just as important. The sun reflecting off the water can be intense, increasing your risk of sunburn even on overcast days.
Mastering self-rescue techniques is also a non-negotiable skill for any kitesurfer. Knowing how to release your kite in an emergency, safely wrap your lines, and either sail back to shore using your kite or pack it down in the water could be a literal lifesaver.
Be smart about it!
What’s in Berito’s first aid kit?
At my local spot, they’ve got decent supplies, but I always bring my own sunscreen—sunburnt lips are a nightmare. For remote spots, I pack:
Bandages (variety pack!)
Tons of tape (for me and my board)
Scissors
Adhesive plaster
Alcohol wipes
A warm blanket (because you never know)
Kite, cut, conquer
Being prepared doesn’t kill the vibe—it keeps the session going. Whether you’re dodging coral, flying high, or just chilling with your kite crew, having a first aid kit is the difference between a good story and a "we had to cancel the trip" saga.
So next time you’re packing your gear, toss in your medical kit like a boss. Because nothing says “seasoned kiter” like bandaging a toe with one hand while launching your kite with the other.
Wind, wax, wounds—we handle it all.
xox Berito