FAQ

The oldest kitesurfer on record is believed to be Dimitrios Komninos, who at the age of 81 years old, kitesurfed in Greece in 2018. Komninos is a retired doctor who started kitesurfing at the age of 68 and continues to enjoy the sport to this day. While there may be other older kitesurfers who have not received media attention, Komninos is currently recognized as the oldest kitesurfer on record.

Kitesurfing is considered by many to be an exciting, challenging, and adrenaline-fueled sport that combines elements of surfing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding. It requires skill, strength, and endurance, as well as an understanding of wind and weather conditions. Kitesurfing can be done in a variety of environments, including flatwater lagoons, open ocean, and even in waves. It also offers the opportunity to explore new locations and experience nature in a unique way.

Kitesurfing can be challenging to learn, but with proper instruction and practice, most people can master the basics and start enjoying the sport. The learning curve can be steep for some, and it requires some physical effort and coordination to get the hang of the kite control and board riding. However, with patience, perseverance, and guidance from an experienced instructor, beginners can quickly progress and start enjoying the thrill of kitesurfing. It's recommended that beginners take lessons from a certified instructor to learn the proper techniques, safety rules, and equipment handling before attempting to kitesurf on their own. This can help to minimize the risk of injury and increase the speed of progress. Additionally, practicing in safe and controlled conditions, such as shallow water and moderate wind conditions, can help build confidence and improve skills gradually. Overall, while kitesurfing may be challenging to learn, it can also be a rewarding and exciting sport for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to master it.

The fastest sailing water sport in the world is considered to be kiteboarding or kitesurfing. Kitesurfers can reach incredible speeds of up to 55-60 knots (100-110 km/h or 62-68 mph) in ideal wind and water conditions. This is due to the ability of the kite to generate a significant amount of power, which can propel the rider across the water at high speeds. Kitesurfers can achieve such speeds by using specialized equipment, such as hydrofoil boards, that allow them to ride above the water's surface and minimize drag. Other sailing water sports, such as windsurfing, catamaran sailing, and sailboat racing, can also reach impressive speeds, but they typically do not match the top speeds achieved by kitesurfers.

While board leashes can be helpful in certain situations, it is generally not recommended to use a board leash when learning to kitesurf. Board leashes can pose a safety hazard by attaching the kitesurfer to the board, which can lead to dangerous situations if the board becomes separated from the kitesurfer, such as when performing jumps or in strong wind conditions. Additionally, board leashes can interfere with the proper body positioning and movements required for learning proper kitesurfing techniques, which can hinder progress and delay the development of good habits. Instead of using a board leash, it is recommended to learn how to body drag and retrieve the board without assistance. This involves using the kite to pull the kitesurfer through the water while maintaining control and position, allowing the kitesurfer to retrieve the board and continue riding. This technique can help to build confidence and improve overall skills and is an essential skill for any kitesurfer to learn. Overall, while board leashes can have some benefits, it is best to avoid using them when learning to kitesurf and focus on developing good habits and techniques that will promote safe and effective kitesurfing.

While board leashes are commonly used in big surf conditions for some water sports like surfing, it is generally not recommended to use a board leash when kitesurfing in big surf. The reason for this is that kitesurfing involves not only riding the waves but also controlling the kite, which can be challenging in large surf conditions. In the event of a wipeout or being hit by a wave, the board leash can create a safety hazard by pulling the kitesurfer underwater and potentially causing entanglement or injury. Furthermore, kitesurfers who are experienced in big surf conditions typically use specialized surfboards that are designed to handle those conditions and are less likely to be separated from the kitesurfer. These boards also allow for greater maneuverability and control, reducing the need for a board leash. Instead of relying on a board leash, kitesurfers in big surf conditions typically use a combination of kite control, board skills, and body positioning to stay in control and navigate the waves safely. This requires a high level of skill and experience, and it is recommended that kitesurfers only attempt to ride in big surf conditions after gaining sufficient experience and training under the guidance of an experienced instructor.