Riders on a Storm

www.iksurfmag.com/issue62/?page=53

A must read article in the latest issue of the International Kitesurf Magazine for those who contemplate kiting in winter fronts/storms, also a great timing as winter kiting conditions aren't so far away.

I would add 2 things that weren't mentioned in this article:

1) Double the wind speed = 4 times the amount of power delivery in your kite so 40 knots is 4 times the power you would normally feel in 20 knots!

2) Frontal winds are much colder than sea breezes and pack a lot more Punch due to air density. so a 20 knots cold winter wind will pull as much as a 25 knots hot summer breeze.

Stay safe,

Christian

Mmmmmmh!. Bring on the winter storms I say.

Good time of the year to check your gear
after a good solid season of use a gusty frontal will find faults in equipment,
a kite capable to handle big increases in winds is a must in frontals
5 liners imho inc increased struts hold storm fronts better , read your weather
let the peak pass and keep a constant eye on the horizon, teather launching let's you evaluate the wind strength prior to riding, note your surrounds, hazards and structure
IF IN DOUBT DONT GO OUT

More important make sure the funghi build up in your booties hasnt evolved into a sea mutant since last winter