How much wind does a kiteboarder need to fly a kite?

_Elsa_

‘Minimum wind speed is one of kiteboarding's classic dilemmas. One thing is certain: a windless day is for kitesurfing what a flat ocean is for a surfer.

So, what's the minimum wind speed you need to launch a kite, have fun for a couple of hours, and then land it safely on the beach?

The wisest answer depends upon a mix of meteorological, technical, and personal factors. In other words, a kite will fly depending on average wind speed, the size of the wing, and the weight of the kiteboarder.

Then, there are also a couple of secondary variables that we should consider before unpacking. For example, don't forget that you may also need minimum wind speed to water relaunch and eventually body drag you back to dry land.

The Magic Number: 12 Knots

As a general rule of thumb, it's fair to say that you can launch a kite with between 5-to-7 knots (5.7-8 mph or 9.2-13 km/h) of wind. However, and ideally, an average rider will need 10 knots (12 mph or 22 km/h) of wind to start flying a kite. Lighter and heavier kiteboarders will probably need a bit less or more wind, respectively.

For a water relaunch, and depending on the size of the swell, you may need to hold the wingtip at the edge of the wind window and at least 10 knots (11.5 mph or 18 km/h) of wind.

As a safety precaution, do note that if you're not able to maintain your kite up in the air for a long time, then it's probably not a good idea to go out into the open ocean.

With marginal wind conditions, there's a good chance you will need to water relaunch the wing, or body drag, meaning you won't have enough wind power to get back to terra firma. Also, if the wind is blowing at 12 knots and lulling at 6 or 7 knots, the wise move is to postpone your kitesurfing session. This is particularly valid for beginner riders.’ (Source)

Elsa has no clue what these numbers mean. She decides to drop the technical stuff and check out which are the best kites or most popular kites. 

Let’s continue - What Is The Most Popular Kind Of Kite?

Start at the beginning – Let’s go fly a kite!