Choosing your first Kitesurfing equipment will be a crucial decision to enjoy this sport to the fullest. Here are some tips:
1- Evaluate your skill level: Before purchasing equipment, make sure you have mastered certain basic skills, such as reading weather forecasts, evaluating spot conditions, preparing your equipment alone, picking up your board in the water, and knowing safety systems. Buying too early without having some level of skill, knowing how to go upwind or upwind, can be a mistake.
2- Determine your budget: The cost of the equipment varies depending on whether it is new or second-hand. New kites can cost around €2,000, while second-hand ones can be more affordable. It is very important to know and check the condition of the material you are going to purchase. Consult with more experienced people, they will surely know how to recognize if the equipment they want to sell you is in good condition or the kite fabric breaks due to the hours of use. sun to which it has been exposed.
3- Know the wind conditions: The size of the kite you need depends on the wind in your practice area. If the wind is light, opt for a larger kite; If it is strong, a smaller one. Normally you have 2 kites of different sizes, depending on your weight, to be able to sail in different conditions.
4- Research the brands and models: There are many options available, but not all of them will suit you. Investigate the brands, their professional history and if they offer after-sales service. If you buy from legal sellers and obtain an invoice for that purchase, you can claim if your kite has a manufacturing defect and even if you sell it second-hand, you can prove the date of purchase and its manufacture.
Remember that your equipment should allow you to practice safely and continue to progress. Good luck on your search!