Why kitesurfing rules matter

Kitesurfing is thrilling—there’s no denying that. The rush of gliding over water with the wind in your kite? Chef’s kiss. But let’s face it, that thrill can quickly turn into chaos if people on the water don’t follow the rules. Ever had someone crash their kite near you because they didn’t understand "right of way"? Or a swimmer appears out of nowhere in your landing zone? Yeah, not fun. Knowing the rules keeps everyone safe, sane, and stoked for another session.  

Here’s a tip: when the wind isn’t blowing, take some time to go over the rules. Learn them, memorize them, and make them second nature. Because let’s be real—on a windy day, your mind is probably more focused on kiting and the stoke than on remembering who has the right of way. Better to be prepared beforehand!

Why you should know these rules  

Let’s take a moment to appreciate why these rules are so important. Kitesurfing rules aren’t just about keeping the peace—they’re the unsung heroes of an epic day on the water.  

• Safety: These rules are your crash-avoidance manual, keeping accidents at bay so you can shred with confidence.  

• Respect for others: Following them shows you’re not just a great kiter but also a decent human being who cares about everyone’s session.  

• Skill development: Mastering these rules gives you the upper hand in navigating busy spots like a seasoned pro.  

• Spread the stoke: Respect the water, share the vibes, and help newbies learn the ropes. Everyone wins.  

The water is a shared playground, and the better we know the rules, the more fun we can all have.  

Essential kitesurfing rules  

Now that we’ve covered the “why,” let’s dive into the “what.” These are the golden rules every kiter should live by.

1. Avoid collisions at all costs  

The golden rule: Don’t crash. Even if you technically have the right of way, don’t be that person who insists on it. Sometimes, swallowing your pride and giving way is the safest move. If the other kiter doesn’t know the rules, assume they’re clueless—not malicious—and steer clear.  

2. Respect beginners and lessons  

Newbies are already dealing with enough: tangling lines, shaky kite control, and existential dread about face-planting in front of everyone. Give them space. Lots of it. And hey, remember, you were a beginner once too.  

3. Entering the water  

If someone’s launching from the beach, they have priority. Why? Wind on land is sketchier due to obstacles and turbulence, while on water, it’s steadier. Help them get out safely so they’re not stuck doing the "kite tango" with the bushes.  

4. Tack priority  

Starboard tack (kite on the right side, riding heel-side) has priority over port tack. If you’re on port tack, steer out of the way. But don’t abuse the rule if you’re on starboard; sometimes, practicality beats pride. Think of it like yielding at a stop sign—be smart, not stubborn.  

5. Speed hierarchy  

The faster rider must yield to the slower one. If you’re speeding through, go downwind or turn to avoid sneaking up on someone like a stealthy ninja. Slow riders might not see you, and collisions at speed aren’t exactly soft landings.  

6. Wave riders have priority  

Wave riders get the wave. Period. But don’t hog them all—share the stoke. On a wave you have less maneuverablility, so that is why you should give them right of way. Also, if you’re navigating beach break waves, give those entering the water room. Nobody likes an unnecessary wipeout because someone’s busy "claiming their wave."  

7. Safe jumping zones  

Want to boost big? Cool, but check your surroundings first. Make sure you have at least 50 meters downwind and 30 meters upwind clear. Jumping into someone’s path is not a vibe.  

8. Other water users  

Swimmers, kayakers, and surfers? Yeah, they were here first. Give them space. big boats always have priority—they’re not dodging for you. You’re maneuverable; they’re not. Play nice. However, we’re on the same level as small boats, windsurfers, wing foilers, and sailboats. With them, we follow the starboard tack rules

9. Kite positioning when crossing  

Upwind kiter keeps their kite high, downwind kiter keeps it low. Simple, yet somehow universally ignored. Pro tip: don’t be the person who forces others to emergency park their kite at 12 o’clock every. single. time.  

10. Body draggers have priority  

Body draggers are like toddlers learning to walk—unpredictable and less manoeuvrable. If you’re up and riding, it’s on you to steer around them. 

11. Changing direction  

And for the love of all things windy, look behind you before you turn. Signal if needed, and don’t be that person who cuts across another rider’s path and causes a pile-up. For example, in Cape Town, with all the big air jumpers, turning without checking first can lead to serious collisions. Jumpers lose their right of way once airborne, so it’s up to the rest of us to avoid them. Give them space—they can’t exactly steer mid-air! Be kind and keep things smooth out there. 

IKO right of way overview

Why some people ignore the rules  

Ah, the mystery of the "rule breakers." Some people genuinely don’t know the rules (beginners—fair enough). Others? They just don’t care. Maybe they think the rules don’t apply to them because they’ve "been kiting forever" or because they’ve got the fanciest gear on the beach. Spoiler: expensive kites don’t come with immunity from basic etiquette.  

And then there’s the oblivious crew—the ones who treat the ocean like their private playground. You know the type: they jump without checking, cut you off mid-turn, and generally act like the laws of physics don’t apply to them. Don’t let their nonsense ruin your session.  

Final thoughts  

Kitesurfing rules aren’t just suggestions—they’re the unspoken contract we all agree to when we hit the water. Following them keeps everyone safe and ensures the sessions stay fun. And if someone’s being a jerk? Be the bigger person. Give them space, shake your head, and focus on having an epic time. Also, don’t forget to own up if you mess up or force another kiter into a tricky situation—apologizing goes a long way in keeping the vibes positive!

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about winning every wave or jump—it’s about sharing the stoke and heading home with your kite (and dignity) intact. Now, go out there and shred responsibly!

xox Berit