Kitesurfing is made up of numerous categories and we often get asked what is? Freeride, Wakestyle, Freestyle, & wave and what kites should I buy. Well, here at The SUP Co we can talk you through each aspect and then custom fit you with the right equipment. This comes from over 17 years of kitesurfing knowledge.
So the term freeride is loosely used as it can cover the whole spectrum of kiteboarding. Eleveight use this term and associate it with a certain kite in their range: the RS. This kite sums up the freeride market. Easy to use, great wind range, easy to re-launch and just bundles of fun. This is what a freerider is all about, just going out and cruising around enjoying yourself and having the right tools for the job. The Eleveight RS is the perfect kite for 99% of modern day kiteboarders.
Freestyle Kites
Freestyle is all about throwing down the latest and greatest tricks, now this is where it can get complicated when purchasing a kite, as you will find that certain kites in the Eleveight range will crossover from Freeride to freestyle, this for example works for the RS range.
Lets look at the RS, this kite is what we would class as a 5 strut bow/ hybrid design with fusion wing tip shapes and a forward draft, this will also mean it’s a slightly higher aspect ratio than some other kites (Click here to find out about aspect ratios)
Meaning the RS is basically slightly longer and thinner and has 5 struts, therefore giving it a higher aspect like a glider wing, this will give you more float, hang time and a faster forward flying kite. The RS is designed more for the Boosted freestyle type rider who goes out looking for big Air, board off multiple rotations. The RS is a plug and play kite.
Surf Kites
So this term is for the hardcore style of rider, normally only associated with Surf style boards and Bindings. This style is all about Power and surf. While surfing, you want your kite to be as invisible as possible. Having a kite which can quickly power and depower are the keys to fluid board control. And there is no better feeling than the moment when your kite ‘drifts’ effortlessly down the line as you absolutely tear apart the wave on your surfboard. The Kite best suited to this in the Eleveight Range is the WS, a moderate aspect hybrid design with 2 bridle setting options.