CHANNEL SURFER ׀ A leisurely look at life on the water…

Gone with the Wind
Kiteboarding is the new favored sport of coastal adrenaline seekers, but with advancements in safety gear, this wind-driven pastime has become suitable for almost everyone. If a kiteboarder moving down the surf hasn’t yet turned your head on the beach, this habit-forming hobby combines the skills of wakeboarding and surfing. But instead of using the power of a boat or any man-made propulsion, kiteboarding utilizes the strength of the wind to enhance speed, jumping height and incredible trick maneuvers.

A similar sport called kitesailing was invented during the 13th century by the Chinese, but what we now think of as kiteboarding was introduced off the coast of Maui in the 1990s by famed surfers Laird Hamilton and Manu Bertin. The pair introduced the concept to extreme surfers and wakeboarders and ever since the unveiling of the radical hobby, its popularity has skyrocketed. In 2006, it was estimated that 150,000 to 200,000 people indulged in this recreational sport. Wherever the wind blows, and especially along the coast, kiteboarding is possible.

Kiteboarding involves a board with foot-straps, the power of a controllable kite and the force of the wind to thrust the person into action. Wind enables the kiteboarder to far exceed the boundaries of regular boarding activities. Kiteboarding allows riders to experience a sense of weightlessness while propelling more than 30 feet in the air at times with the benefits from the wind and the water. As a new hobby, beginners can experience the fun of kiteboarding through local watersports rental providers and instructors. For those wanting to purchase their own gear, beginners’ training kites range from $115-$135, with most training boards priced around $300.

As kiteboarders reach the intermediate to advanced levels, the prices start to launch skyward, as well. The kites, as they become more elaborate, reach prices in upwards of $1,500. Kiteboards, as the width increases usually to compensate for decreases in length, start to climb to around $300. Most bindings, which allow the rider to remain connected with his or her board, are priced around $50. For those looking to forego the hassle of deciphering which board goes with which kite, one can buy a package deal providing all the necessities. Packages stem from the mid $800s to around $2,000.

Because long beaches, decent surf conditions and consistent wind are necessities for this new recreational attraction, the Southern Outer Banks is a prime location for kiteboarding. As the summer heat sizzles, you’ll find more and more people gone with the wind….

Read more feature articles in the print edition of Waterfront Magazine.