Can you kite while it is raining?

Yes, you can. I have had some kite sessions where I was on the water while it was raining, and I am not the only kiter who has done that. However, kitesurfers generally prefer not to go out while it’s raining or when rain is in the forecast. Why is that?

Non-kiters are often surprised if you don’t go out in the rain. The most common response is: "But you get wet anyway, so why can’t you just go?" Fair enough. Your board, wetsuit, hair, bar, and lines are getting wet while kiting, rain or no rain. But one of the reasons has to do with the kite.

We don't want our kites to be wet because a wet kite can mold if you don’t let it dry after your session. And if your spot is at a sandy beach, it is going to be a nightmare. Sand likes to stick to a wet kite, so your kite will be an absolute mess.

Another reason people give is that a wet kite is heavier than a dry kite, making relaunching harder. But how many times have you crashed your kite on the water, got it wet, and relaunched it again? We all do it from time to time. So yes, a wet kite takes a bit longer to relaunch, but with the wind chasing over the kite, it will not be that drenched.

If those were the only reasons, I would go out in the rain if it’s windy. But those are not the only reasons. There are more factors you should consider if you want to go out in the rain.

Rain makes the wind unreliable. Not every spot and not every rain situation has this issue. You can have rain, and the wind can be really stable. But more often than not, you will experience that the wind drops, picks up really fast, or changes direction. These three factors can make a situation tricky in a second.

Because what if you are quite far out and the wind drops? It is going to be an exhausting swim back. Or when the wind picks up and you cannot hold the kite anymore because there is too much wind. What about riding nicely with side onshore wind and the wind changes to an offshore direction, and you see the land going further and further away from you?

With rain, there is also a possibility of thunder and lightning. Did you know that your kite lines are really good at directing lightning to you? And that water is also an excellent conductor?

So what to do? If you feel comfortable kiting while it is raining, go for it. But always be aware of the sky and its clouds. If you see a big dark cloud nearby, stop your session and pack up. Do you feel that there is a change in the wind and you are not sure? Be safe, don’t go or stop your session if you feel unsure.

If you go out while it's raining, be safe out there. Don’t make stupid decisions.

To be honest, I had some amazing and sketchy sessions while it was raining. In my opinion, when the rain just drizzles, the wind stays stable, making the session extra fancy. But if the rain falls harder, the wind gets really gusty and strong, and then I feel like I’m just surviving.

xox Berit