Kiteboarding gear has evolved to much more user friendly and safe in the couple of the last years. Quick releases are better and easier to use and the kites have bigger range of use. Even the bigger range of use of the kite makes it a bit safer people tend to ride in very high winds with big kites even a smaller kite would be better for those conditions. Another case is that we can go out in much less wind than earlier and dropping wind may cause a risk to not be able to relaunch a dropped kite.
After you have made sure on the beach that you have working quick release and know how to utilize it and you use a leash every time you go out, it is important that you know the safety procedures what to do when the quick release is pulled and your kite is down on the water/snow and you need to get to it.
Self rescue is something that every kiteboarder should know no matter if you kite on the snow or on the water. It is the way to get you out from a dangerous situation if the wind drops, picks up too much for your kite, there is a gear malfunction or tangled lines and your kite cannot fly anymore.
In light winds on snow it is a bit easier if there is not too much snow as you can keep the line that is connected to a leash tight and walk to the kite by avoiding the loose lines.
On the water and in deep snow loose lines cause a bigger risk to tangle onto you when you swim/walk close to them. That is why deep water self rescue is made so that the lines are winded to the bar. This is also safe way to do on snow/land.
In the next video the self rescue is explained and showed. It is not enough that you know it in theory. It is highly important that you try it by yourself on the beach and on the water every now and then.
Good time, too bad the wind was a little unruly. Hope we can do another event this winter! Was out a Hamburg yesterday, good ice and pretty snow covered, just need some wind.
VastaaPoistaKiteboarding Kites