The beginner kitesurf checklist
So you did it. You nailed your lessons, face still tingling from salt and small wins. Now what?
You’re finally ready to head out on your own. First of all: you absolute legend. Second: you’re probably panicking just a little bit, wondering, “But what do I even need to start kiting solo?”
Maybe your instructor rattled off a list between gulps of water, or tried to sell you their battered old gear. Maybe you nodded politely, then promptly forgot everything.
Either way, here’s the only list you actually need. With real talk on why you need this stuff, so your hard-earned lessons don’t turn into a one-way trip back to the beach.
Kite: Your next partner in crime
It’s expensive, and picking one can feel overwhelming when there are a thousand options. But get it right, and it’s hands down the best feeling on earth. If you’re totally clueless, ask your local kiteshop or shoot a message to a big online store, they love helping new kiters.
Type: Start with an all-round/freeride kite. Trust us, don’t get fancy. These are built to take you from flailing beginner to upwind warrior.
Size: Check out our full guide on choosing the right kite size. In short: for lighter wind spots, think 11-14m. If your local wind packs more punch, go 7-9m. Got the budget for two kites? Even better. A 7 and 9m suit consistent 20+ knots, while an 8 and 11 or 9 and 12m cover 15-25 knots.
Second-hand? Aim for a kite that’s 1-2 years old in good condition. Also, ask around. Buying second-hand is great for your wallet but can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. Tap into local groups or friendly kiters for advice.
Deals: Many kiteshops bundle kite, bar, and board for a sweet discount. Also look for last year’s models, barely changed design, way better price.
Hot tip: Loved your lesson kite? See if the school will sell it to you. You already know how it flies, one less surprise.
For deeper nerding, check out our blog on kite types to see why you want freeride over big air or wave.
Bar: Buy it new, thank us later
Could you go second-hand? Sure. Should you? Probably not.
We always recommend buying a new bar. It’s your primary safety system, lines stretch, depower ropes wear out, and your life literally hangs on them.
Brand match: Start with a bar from the same brand as your kite. They’re designed to work together.
Size matters: Bigger bars suit bigger kites, smaller bars for smaller kites. The size of your bar affects steering, too big or too small, and it’ll still work, but it won’t feel quite right. Many brands offer adjustable bars, with 45-55cm being a sweet spot for most setups.
Board: twintip it up
This is where analysis paralysis sets in. Rocker, flex, channels… Relax. For your first board, just worry about:
Type: Get a twintip. Directionals come later. A freeride or beginner board is perfect.
Size: A slightly bigger board makes learning way easier. Look for something around 136-142 cm, depending on your weight.
We broke it all down in our twintip guide: right board, right vibes.
Harness: Don’t skip this
You might almost forget about it, but please don’t. Free soloing your kite without a harness is a fast track to disaster. You’ll end up wrapped around a beach umbrella or chasing your kite down the coast.
Soft shell or hard shell? Either works. Skip the pricey ones for now. But if you’ve got the budget, go for a hard shell. Your back will thank you after long sessions.
Seat vs waist: Totally up to you. Many go straight for waist harnesses because, let’s be honest, they look cooler.
Fit: Make sure it sits snug around your waist or hips. A too-big harness rides up and moves around which is uncomfortable.
Wetsuit: Your body armor
Most spots will need a wetsuit. Always go for a kitesurf-specific one, they’re built to handle harness friction. Try it on before buying; brands all fit differently, and nothing’s worse than a soggy, loose suit.
Thickness: The numbers (like 5/3) show neoprene thickness, first number for your core, second for arms and legs.
Warm water: shorty or 3/2
Cooler: 5/3 or 5/4 steamer
Zips: Front zips are trendier, leak less, and fit snug. Back zips are easier to get into.
Flex: Thicker suits keep you toasty but limit movement.
Want more on wetsuits? Check out this blogpost.
The overlooked extras
A kite, bar, board, harness, and wetsuit are your bare minimum. But this next list? It’s what turns sketchy sessions into smooth ones.
Pump: No pump, no kite. Obvious, but don’t be that person always borrowing.
Helmet & impact vest: Especially crucial if your confidence outruns your skill (it will). Also protects you from other people’s mistakes.
Poncho: Changing naked in the parking lot is a vibe… until the security guy shows up.
Surf ears & sunscreen: Protect your ears, cold wind and water can cause nasty bony growths (surfer’s ear is no joke). Wear plugs and avoid hearing aids later. And sunscreen? Use a water-resistant one, and put it on at least 15 minutes before. Because greasy hands on a bar is horrible.
Spare bar & kite: Great for different wind ranges or if your main gear decides to quit.
Find-me stickers: Your future self will thank you. If you lose your board, someone can call you instead of rescue crews assuming you’re still out there fighting for your life.
Gloves, hoodie & booties: If you’re kiting somewhere chilly, these save your hands, head, and toes from turning into popsicles.
Waterproof pouch & wetsuit bag: Keeps your phone, keys and car from salty destruction.
Tiny decisions, big sessions
If you’ve got a kite, bar, board, harness, wetsuit, and ideally a clue, congrats. You’re officially ready to torch your bank account and fill your phone with slightly tragic jumps.
Oh, and the most underrated essential? A sense of humor. Because no matter how dialed your gear is, there’s always a chance you’ll park your kite in a tree.
Now go get your gear. And remember: if it doesn’t fit in your hatchback, it might be time to buy a van.
xox Berito