Choosing a Kitesurf Trainer Kite - A Buyers Guide

If you are planning on learning how to kitesurf, time spent on a trainer kite is essential to helping speed up your progression. Kitesurf lessons are expensive and they can only teach you so much till you can keep a kite in the sky and fly it confidently. Our top tip is to get a trainer kite and spend time on it learning how to fly safely and getting a feel for things before your lessons. There are so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for you? Here are some of the key factors to consider when selecting a kitesurf trainer kite and our recommendations.

Wind range and Size

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a trainer kite is the size. Trainer kites typically range from 1.5 square meters to 4 square meters. A larger size will provide more power and stability, and will not dart around as much. This can make it easier to get to grips with, however it will also pull more and might limit the conditions you can use it in. The larger sizes are also less suitable for children due to the amount of power. The smaller kites can be more fun to fly because of how fast they are. As a first powerkite we would recommend something 1.5 to 3m depending on how windy it is where you want to fly.

Quality Materials

Look for a trainer kite made from high-quality materials that are durable and built to last. A well-constructed kite will withstand the rigors of training and practice sessions. Anything from a recognisable brand will work here.

Control Bar System and lines

The control bar system is another crucial aspect to consider. The main focus is going to be on whether the kite flies on 2 or 3 lines. This will be a budget consideration. Flying lines are expensive, and as such 2 line kites will be cheaper.

Safety Features

Safety is an important part of kitesurfing so it is a good idea to start thinking about this from the beginning. Look for trainer kites that come with safety features. There bare minimum is a leash so that if you release the kite or it is pulled out of your hands, it is flagged out and does not fly off potentially causing issues downwind. 

Price and Budget

Lastly, consider your budget when choosing a kitesurf trainer kite. While it's important to invest in a quality kite, there are options available for every budget. 

Recommendations

Good - HQ Fluxx

The HQ Fluxx is a 2 line trainer kite on a bar. It comes with a hand leash too which flags it onto a single line if you let go of the bar. These are incredibly well priced and you will get a lot of fun for the money. 

These start at around £60.

 

Better - HQ Rush Pro 

The HQ Rush Pro is a 3-line powerkite which serves perfectly as a kitesurf trainer. The 3rd line is a safety system which flags the kite out and can also be used to reverse launch it. These are really fun and easy kites to use and an ideal purchase for kids or adults looking to learn to fly power kites or get into kitesurfing.

These start at £200

 

Best - Ozone Ignition V3

The Ozone Ignition is the gold standard of classic 3-Line Kitesurf Trainer Kite. Everyone should own one of these. There is no better tool to get family, friends and kids into kiting. They pack small and are super fun to fly. The Ignition flies great and the third line makes it easy to relaunch. 

The Ignition starts at £230