This blog will break down how to ride toeside while kiteboarding. We will look at the kite position, how to go from heelside to toeside and board control. Being able to ride toeside will unlock the door to many different styles of riding. One of the best is a transition out of toeside.
Kite Position
Before you ride toeside kiteboarding, you want to keep the kite high. If left, the kite should be at 11 o’clock. If right, keep the kite at 1 o’clock. Throughout riding toeside you want to keep the kite high. This will give you more of an upward lift that will make it easier to balance your weight. From riding heelside to toeside you do not want the kite to move very much. Focus on balancing tension in the bar.
Heelside To Toeside
When transitioning from heelside to toeside you want to first control your speed. While riding heelside, edge the front of the board into the wind as hard as you can while pushing out on the bar. This should cause you to slow down. Right before you stop, pull in slightly on the bar and transition your back foot forwards. Your weight should always be away from the kite. At this point you should be riding toeside and going downwind.
Board Control
You always want your weight away from the kite. When riding toeside, you want your weight over your back toes. As a bonus tip, you can use your hips to determine where to point the board. If you open your hips more towards the kite, the board will point downwind. If you turn your hips away from the kite the front of the board will point upwind.
Your board creates or loses power. If you point downwind, you’ll lose power. If you point slightly upwind, you’ll create more tension and more power. When riding toeside, play with the board angle.
Want to learn how to ride toeside and the different variations out of toeside? Sign up for a lesson and we’ll expedite your progression.
