There are multiple ways to self land a kiteboarding kite. This way is done if you’re underpowered. The best way to practice this technique is in light winds when you are underpowered. As you get better with this technique, you can perform it in more wind. If you’re powered or overpowered, we prefer that you push away your safety release to land. If there is anyone else on the beach that kiteboards, have them assist you with a normal land.
Where To Practice
When you practice how to self land a kiteboarding kite you want an area with a lot of open space. You want to make sure there’s no people or objects downwind of you. The West Side of Skyway is not ideal because of how small the beach is. St Pete Beach is not ideal because there are beachgoers. You want a wide open area with a lot of beach and few people like the East Side of Skyway.
When To Practice
If you’re new to kiteboarding and you’re by yourself, just release the kite by pushing away your safety system. You want to practice this technique when you are under powered. If there is moderate to strong winds, this technique can be dangerous.
Position Kite
Position the kite towards the edge of the wind window at 10 o’clock or 2 o’clock.
Step One
Let go of the bar. Letting go of the bar will cause the kite to fall down. In windier conditions you can let go of the bar and walk straight downwind. You want to get the kite facing straight down.
Step Two
Pull the top center line. Keep pulling the top center line to make sure the leading edge faces straight down. You’re trying to get the leading edge down in a way where when it lands wind blows over the top of the kite like when its sitting on the beach.
If It Doesn’t Go To Plan
If the kite doesn’t land perfect then let go of the lines or bar. Let go of everything and visualize what is going on.
If the kite lands but there is still wind catching one side. Keep pulling the top center line and walk downwind. This will reposition the kite so wind blows over the kite.
If the kite didnt land or stall and is still at the edge of the wind window, bring the kite back up. You can bring the kite back up and try again.
If the kite stalled then push away your safety release.
If you have any questions on how to self land a kiteboarding kite send us a message. If you want to practice this safely with an instructor, schedule a lesson with us.
