Sports Research Review No. 155

Author:Chein-Chang Hou
Period/Date/Page:No. 155 (2020 / 12 / 31) , P24 - 43
DOI:10.6162/SRR.202012_(155).0003
An Extreme Water Sport: Kitesurfing
Abstract:Kitesurfing, also known as kiteboarding, is an extreme water sport that has become one of the mainstream water sports internationally. Since the first inflatable kite was patented in 1987 by Bruno and Dominique Legaignoux brothers and manufactured in 1997 by Wipika, more than one million people have become kitesurfers. More than 100,000 kites are now sold annually. Drawing on both personal experience and literature review, this article aims to discuss the principles of kitesurfing operation, the different types of equipment, and the various forms of competition. The results show that the kitesurfing equipment consists of a kite, a board, a control bar, and its lines. Kitesurfers also need to wear harnesses, wetsuits, helmets, and sunglasses. Kites can be categorized into inflatable kites and foil kites based on their structural features. Inflatable kites, launchable after falling on water, are suitable for beginners. Foil kites, with lighter weight and more power, are suitable under light wind. Similarly, the structural features of board types divide them into twintip board, surfboard, and hydrofoil board. All three have their own special application. There are 4 types of competition: free style, wave style, race, and big-air style. Kitesurfers can choose their own specialized equipment and develop their own styles. Kitesurfing has its own sets of barriers to entry, including financial and safety requirements and a noteworthy learning curve. Beginners should seek the help of experienced coaches to speed up their learning within a safe learning environment to maximize the enjoyment of this sport. (Full text)


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