Windsurfing Vs. Kitesurfing

Clark Weeks loves water sports like scuba diving and sailing. Windsurfing and Kitesurfing are two more amazing water sports. If you are an adventure sports enthusiast, you must have heard of people debating over which one’s better between the two – kitesurfing or windsurfing? Both of these extreme sports have their own fan base that are in love with their preferred type.

Here we won’t try to find out which one’s best because both have their own kind of thrill to offer. Rather, let us tell you more about windsurfing and kiteboarding so you can easily decide which one will suit to your taste.  

Windsurfing Vs Kitesurfing

Learning

Windsurfing is easier to learn and beginners usually get to enjoy the thrill on their very first lesson. This is because the windsurfing equipment is easy to use and the instructions are simple to follow. You just have to hold up the sails on the windsurf board with your arms.

However, kitesurfing is a different ball game. First you need to learn how to grip the kite and then drag your body through the waters before you try to get on your board.

Transportation

Windsurfing gear usually includes one or two surfing boards and three sails that could weigh as much as 30 pounds. On the other hand, kitesurfing involves the use of a board and a kite that could be accommodated inside a long bag. So, windsurfing equipment is more of a hassle to transport compared to their kitesurfing counterpart.

Equipment Cost

Both kitesurfing and windsurfing equipment cost almost the same but the former is usually more fragile when compared to the latter. The kite could need replacement after three years whereas windsurfing kits might last for five years or so. Take good care of your surfing equipment and they will take good care of you when surfing.

Fitness

Windsurfing is your go-to choice if you are looking to have a strong physique. Your legs are positioned in a half squat stance that helps strengthen your quadriceps and butt muscles. Although kitesurfing does not involve so much physical involvement, you will be using your legs and need core stability to control the direction and the speed of your board.

Try Windsurfing If –

• You are not really a patient learner
• You love activities that require strength
• You have around $3000 to spend
• You live in an area where the wind is strong and gusty
• You own a big car and there is enough space at home to store the board
• Stunts and acrobatics have never been your priority
• You do like hanging out with jocks

Try Kitesurfing If –

• You do not like bulky surfing equipment
• You have around $2000 to spend
• You are healthy but not athletic
• You have the mentality to handle a bit of a risky affair
• You own a small car and there is not sufficient space at home to store the board
• Your living area has steady and moderate winds
• A large and sandy beach is nearby

Conclusion

Be sure to thank Clark Weeks if you happen to see him out windsurfing or kitesurfing. You will need to ask him which he prefers. If you can, we recommend that you try out both windsurfing and kiteboarding. You will soon find out your preferred type and have non-stop adventures on the water!