TheKiteMag #34 by Water Born Media

ISSUE # 3 4

SUNDOWN SESSIONS

WITH ROBBY NAISH

BRAZIL AFTER HOURS

PERU: L AND OF THE LEG - BURNERS

FITNESS: DYNAMIC STRE TCHING

IN TO AFRICA: RE TURNING TO KENYA

TA N G L E D LINES LEGENDS

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PIVOT SIZES 5–12, 14 | FREERIDE/WAVE When we designed the Pivot we wanted a kite that could take riders to the next level and the results speak for themselves. It’s the kite that Kevin Langeree has won the Red Bull King of the Air twice with and continues to break the limits for all riding styles worldwide. Simply put, the Pivot is one of the best high-performance freeride kites in the world. Packed with tech and using Quad-Tex, the strongest canopy material available, the Pivot offers performance on demand for kiters of all riding styles.

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Kevin Langaree: Pivot Kite, KL Pro Twin Tip

CONTENTS THE FEATURES

78 Sundown Sessions COVER Here’s Alby Rondina showing ultimate class in the world of kicker hits. He’s been doing this kind of thing for a few more years than most now… Photo: James Boulding

THE REGULARS

It’s that time of year again… The KPL event at the Kite Mansion. We got Andre Magarao on the case for some 100% exclusive after hours action. Enjoy.

90 Breaking Boundaries Brazilian Fernando Fernandez was involved in a car crash which left him without the use of his legs – while that may have left most of us pretty downbeat, for Fernando it hasn’t held him back and his latest challenge has been learning to kite. The Cabrinha team were keen to help out…

98 In To Africa 033 Tangled Lines Legends Robby Naish 038 On the List NorCal 042 I ’m On It Carlos Mario 044 Profile Øyvind Nøstdal 046 My Beach Johanna-Catharina Edin 052 The Mission Oswald Smith in Indo 060 Gallery GKA Dakhla 114 Technique Sketchy Line Jump 116 The Creators Uli Sommerlatt 122 Fitness Dynamic Stretching 126 Tell Me About It Quobba Fins, Ride Engine, Mystic Stealth 142 Wrapping Up Dom Moore

Issy von Zastrow was born and grew up in Kenya. She returned after four years away and found that a few things had changed for the worse, but the welcome of the local community and those steady Kenyan winds thankfully had not.

104 Land of the Leg-Burners When it comes to scoring A1 wave content, surely the ultimate dream would be to gather four of the very best waveriders on the planet, team them up with one of the very best photographers in the sport, and send them off to Peru. Check, check and check.

LEFT Lukas Vogeltanz providing some physics-defying windless foiling magic… Photo: Andrea Vogeltanz

WWW.ROBERTORICCIDESIGNS.COM

Rider: FRANCESCO CAPPUZZO Ph: SWETLANA ROMANTSOVA

YOU THINK IT, HE DOES IT

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• Unmatched drifting abilities, superquick turns • Benchmark wave kite in the market • Front-line trim setting with wave / freestyle-wave options

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EDITORIAL

NO PLACE LIKE HOME Kitesurfing is more than a sport or a pastime – it’s also a lifestyle choice. It enables us to travel; to broaden our horizons and to share a kinship with our fellow kitesurfers and wind and water loving brethren. Whether you are traveling a few hours from home to check out a different spot or to chase that perfect forecast for one of those ‘couple of times a year’ spots. Or whether you’re loading up your travel bags, digging out the Factor 50 and giving that slightly odorous rash vest a rinse out (having dug it out of the kitebag you thoughtlessly stuffed it into at the end of your last tropical trip). The fact is that our sport enables us to look at a map of the world and immediately identify the places that are on that mental list we carry around in our head. Put simply: the places with the right kind of wind… So traveling is epic and you can spend years living for your next trip – planning it out, buying new gear and spending an inappropriate amount of time looking at long range forecasts. Then maybe one day – after years of searching out new spots and thinking of nothing but the next adventure – you’ll be at your local beach and the thought will cross your mind: actually, this is what has turned me into the person I am today. This is my local beach… And sometimes there is nowhere else I’d rather be. Because you know your local: you know the best wind direction, the best tide, the best place to get a beer with your mates after a session. It’s home. And sometimes – to use my first ever Wizard of Oz quote in a kitesurfing publication: there’s no place like home. This issue we have a couple of features which tie in to the theme (I know, I am good), we have Issy von Zastrow returning to her home country of Kenya after a few years out of the loop, where she discovered a lot of things had changed but – most importantly – the local vibe and the local conditions had not. We also head over to Brazil to catch up with Alex Maes and Annelous Lammerts where they’ve built a second home at the Kite Mansion, and where they welcome the KPL park riders to their back yard every year. And finally, we have this shot of Willow-River Tonkin, who provided the inspiration for this random little opening to the magazine. I asked him for a few words to go with this shot and – the poet that he is – he came back with this: “It was a GKA day, where the wind and the waves play, showing its fierce face. It put me on the race, to run and chase, down this monster of a wave, in my home place.” Thanks Willow. Enjoy the issue, Alex

Photo: Ydwer van der Heide / GKA

F R E E R I D E

F R E E S T Y L E

W A V E

E V J O I N

T H E

P O W E R

O D U O T O N E S P O R T S . C O M

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N E W

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D E D I C A T E D

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K I T E B O A R D I N G S

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F O L L O W

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SUBSCRIBE EDITOR Alex Hapgood ART DIRECTION Katharina Godbersen TECHNICAL EDITOR Richard Boughton ONLINE MEDIA MANAGER Gemma Hamaini

COPYRIGHT All material in TheKiteMag is subject to copyright. Reproduction without the express permission of the publishers will result in prosecution.

BRAZIL AFTER HOURS

IN TO AFRICA: RE TURNING TO KENYA

SUNDOWN SESSIONS

WITH ROBBY NAISH

FITNESS: DYNAMIC STRE TCHING

ADVERTISING Advertising enquiries can be sent to advertising@thekitemag.com

ISSUE # 3 4

TA N G L E D LINES LEGENDS

PERU: L AND OF THE LEG - BURNERS

CONTRIBUTORS James Boulding, Andrea Vogeltanz, Kyle Cabano, Christopher Curran, Lukas Pitsch, Anthony Maudet, Samuel Cardenas, Laci Kobulsky, Götz Sommer, Julien Leleu, Crystal Veness, Felix Moström, Ydwer van der Heide, Andre Magarao, Geoffrey von Zastrow, Toby Bromwich, Svetlana Romaontsova, Jose Zander Servando, Karo Krassel.

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MAJESTIC FRONT-ZIP WETSUIT

G B S + WAT E R P R O O F S T R E TC H TA P I N G

RIDER: OSWALD SMITH

FLARE MESH

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M Y S T I C B O A R D I N G . C O M

CH: This session was absolutely amazing – the conditions that I’m looking for all came together, and I remember the feeling I had when I was looping my 8 meter Pivot. The wind was a little gusty and around 35 knots and I had the confidence to send it. It's always a pleasure to send it in this spot, Le Sillon at Saint Malo, and luckily I had Anthony there to capture this moment when I found the perfect wave for this megaloop board-off. RIDER Clement Huot PHOTO Anthony Maudet LOCATION Brittany, France

TKM: You might be the king of extreme riding and have all of your double passes dialled, but sometimes being extreme doesn’t make a good shot… Sometimes you need to think about the backdrop, getting a good amount of board on show, and slotting in a cheeky grab. Wojtek has been doing his homework… RIDER Wojtek Andrzejewski PHOTO Adrian Krawczyk LOCATION Tarifa

OS: Every now and then, it all aligns. This session started off as a small two foot day, then suddenly the wind switched offshore, the swell jacked up, and the waves became smooth as silk and hollowed out perfectly. I got some of the best rides of my life including this wave here: Indo is life! RIDER Oswald Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x192; PHOTO Samuel Cardenasâ&#x20AC;&#x192; LOCATION Indonesia

CC: I had the pleasure of shooting the action-filled Windfest at Nitinat event this past July on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I swam out pre-event to capture one of the event organizers and MCs, Brendan Hessels, skimming his way through a flawless barefoot slide before returning to work duties. We were blessed with great conditions for competition all weekend. RIDER Brendan Hesselsâ&#x20AC;&#x192; PHOTO Christopher Curranâ&#x20AC;&#x192; LOCATION Vancouver Island

LK: Towards the end of the summer I went with Alby to shoot some new tricktip videos, where we wanted to show a few ideas for advanced freeride tricks (coming soon!) and one idea came from a Cabrinha photoshoot where James Boulding year-after-year scored with his signature hand drag. To top this move, we chose a spot where the seagrass hits the water and creates this incredible mirror. We were shooting video, but the instant I saw this I shot some stills as well! RIDER Alby Rondinaâ&#x20AC;&#x192; PHOTO Laci Kobulskyâ&#x20AC;&#x192; LOCATION ProKite Alby Rondina, Sicily

JL: This shot was taken at the famous spot of Balneario in Tarifa during the summer. It’s forbidden to ride it during the summer until 8pm, so that’s the perfect time to go shred it without the tourists and have the spot to myself during the golden hour. People often say Tarifa during summer is a nightmare to kite, but in fact you just need to be at the right place at the right time… It was also the first session where I had a chance to ride the new RRD Y25 Addiction, so it was one to remember. RIDER Julien Leleu PHOTO Samuel Cardenas LOCATION Tarifa

JM: This was one of those very rare south east days on the Danish island of Fanø. Super constant wind, my 15m Sonic2 well powered, and just enjoying the session! The water was crystal clear and flat, so the pop-out was super easy. When I grabbed the board and jumped over Götz, I knew this was the shot of the session! RIDER Jannis Maus PHOTO Götz Sommer LOCATION Denmark

LP: Butter flat, but still super windy. The dream of every kitesurfer. It was during our trip to Sicily when Julian Meister was on a discovery ride through the lagoon when I captured him flying through the air. His flight is the only proof of the strong thermal winds in the western part of Sicily! RIDER Julian Meisterâ&#x20AC;&#x192; PHOTO Lukas Pitschâ&#x20AC;&#x192; LOCATION Lo Stagnone, Sicily

KC: This was actually an interesting afternoon. We had scheduled to meet at Dolphin beach at 2pm to get filming with some other team riders and due to some personal reasons, Ozzie was (as usual) fashionably late. On arrival, this turned into a mild dispute, and he stormed off to the beach while I hung in the carpark feeling a bit put-off and on the verge of ditching the shoot. It wasn't 10 minutes and the kite was launched so I stuck around to see what's up. This photo was taken from the car park and the framing of the shot was a bit of a fluke, I guess everything happens for a reason right? RIDER Oswald Smith PHOTO Kyle Cabano LOCATION Cape Town

LP: When Andrea talked to me about wakestyling in the snow for the first time, I was totally up for a joint spontaneous shoot high up in the Swiss mountains. The warm-up session started with building a little kicker and minutes later Andrea sent his first unhooked tricks into the blue sky. RIDER Andrea Luca Ammannâ&#x20AC;&#x192; PHOTO Lukas Pitschâ&#x20AC;&#x192; LOCATION Bernina, Switzerland

Robby Naish T

This issue we begin a new ‘legends’ series of our longest running slot in the magazine. And when you think ‘watersports legends’ there is only really one place to begin… PHOTOS frankiebees

Tangled Lines Legends

Robby Naish

— ADEURI CORNIEL

How old were you when you started windsurfing and can you remember your first sessions?

I was 11… And yes, I can still remember my very first session. Although “session” would not describe it very well. “Experience” would be better, since I was not actually really able to get going on my first session. But I was hooked… And I still am today, 45 years later! — EWAN JASPAN

Throughout your career have you drawn inspiration from athletes in other sports? Who in particular has inspired you?

Early on in my career, I didn’t really pay much attention to other sports or athletes. Windsurfing was totally new, and took all of my attention. As I grew older I began to appreciate other sports and athletes and draw inspiration from many… But not really any athletes in particular over the dozen or so who inspired me.

— MA XIME CHABLOZ

At what point did you first think about creating your own brand, and how long from that first thought until you finally realized it?

My dad began making boards in the garage in the late 70s, and Naish Hawaii was born in 1979. So the name has been on boards and on the Kailua shop for a very long time. In the ‘heyday’ of windsurfing, Naish Hawaii was making over a thousand custom boards a year… That is a lot! The Naish brand as it stands today was formed in 1995 when I decided to create the sail

brand, Nash Sails Hawaii. It was never really a desire to branch out into the business beyond the Kailua shop and custom boards… it kind of just happened through necessity (long story!). It was a big decision, and not an easy one to make. But overall it was a good decision and the brand grew slowly and gradually, at a rate that I could control and finance. First windsurfing sails and rigs, then to kitesurfing in ’99, kiteboards that year, production windsurfing boards a couple years later, SUP in 2007 and on like that until today. — MIK AILI SOL

I started kiting at the same age as you did, and also received my first kitesurfing world title at 13, just like you. If you could relive those early days as a teenager knowing what you know now as an adult, is there anything you would have done differently?

No. If I were to look at it from a financial standpoint, sure (I would have bought Apple, Microsoft, Google etc!) but overall, I am proud of what I have achieved. The mistakes that I made along the way were part of my growth as a person. You could always go back and change the past and fix this or that, do this differently, that another way etc. But I would do it all over again if I could. I have been in the right place at the right time many times over. I have had more than my share of luck and good fortune and I appreciate what I have been given and what I have worked for. I am content. If I were telling a young person today, the one thing that I would say is to invest in your future. Put money aside. Buy property if you can. Live below

TOP LEFT Where it all began. If the Robby of 45 years ago could see himself now, I wonder what he'd have to say? TOP RIGHT And, yup, he is still doing this 45 years on... RIGHT Another decade, another new sport and Naish are, of course, on their game with it.

your means and save for the future. Too many athletes don’t do that. I did, and I am lucky as a result. — TKM

Is the watersports business easier or more difficult now than it was when you began, and what has changed over the years?

I would say that no business is easy. But the watersports business is particularly difficult. The margins are small and the life cycle of most products for a season is pretty short. But it is a great business in many other ways. We get to design, test and build things that we love, in sports that we live day in and day out. We help create things that bring a lot of people some of the best moments in their lives and all in a happy, healthy environment, doing things out in nature that are personally fulfilling and rewarding and good for you, your mind, body and your spirit. So even though the business side of the business kind of sucks sometimes, what we do makes it totally worthwhile. — JESSE RICHMAN

In all your years of braving the gnarliest conditions this world has to offer, what’s the closest you have come to death, and what kept you alive?

I have always approached things with a calculated risk approach. I have always worked up to things rather than just jumping in head first and seeing what

happens. So whether it was learning a new trick or riding Jaws, I did it with a fairly cautious approach. Injury was always the enemy and something that I really tried to avoid through my entire career. Sometimes that meant not doing things that might have been appealing (like riding dirt bikes) in order to make sure that I did not mess myself up. The closest that I think I ever came to dying was six or so years ago windsurfing at Jaws. You can wipe out there over-and-over again and be totally fine. It is when you wipe out in the wrong place at the wrong time that it can get sketchy. I ate it at the end of the North Peak, bottom turning. I swam towards the channel, diving under a few white waters with no real consequence. But after the third wave all I saw was a really big ‘west bowl’ coming right out of the channel. It got me right on the head, and held me down for my first and only two wave hold down of my life. When I finally popped up, I was almost in at the rocks… I was as close to passing out as I have ever been. But close is ok. You just don’t want to go over that limit. — TKM

You have ridden with and sponsored many of the best kiters on the planet – can you pick three riders who have really stood out for you and tell us why?

I have ridden with a pretty good percentage of the best riders in the sport since day one. Things have grown and expanded recently to include many young guys ▶

“I would do it all over again if I could. I have been in the right place at the right time many times over and I have had more than my share of luck.“

(and girls) that I have not ridden with yet… But the list of who I rode with and competed against is really long. So to choose three?! If I mention three, I am insulting a lot more…. I have ridden with Flash Austin, Lou Wainman, Pete Cabrinha and the rest of the crew that rode our gear in the beginning. Mark Shinn, Adam Koch, Leeshai, Jesse, Kevin, Jalou. But if you put a gun to my head and said name three and only three… it would have to be Flash, Martin Vari, and Kevin Langeree. But all of them had a whole crew of guys right along with them that set the stage and rode at their level and pushed them to get where they are. But those three set the stage and standard for the sport in those periods…. Flash in the very beginning…. Martin in the transition to hooked in and ‘board offs’ (a close one between he and Mark Shinn) and Kevin carrying the sport to where it is today. But that is a list of three with a gun to my head. For only a twenty-year-old sport, I have known a lot of talent and class acts though the generations of top riders…

Tangled Lines Legends

Robby Naish

PATRI MCL AUGHLIN

Hey Robby, you have spent more time in the water than probably anyone else alive! What’s the most memorable session of your life?

I have been incredibly lucky to do what I do. To have been in the right place at the right time so many times, as I said before. If I had one session that stuck out more than fifty or a hundred others, I probably wouldn’t still be doing this today. I have had so many awesome sessions that I cannot begin to count them. These sports offer so much reward and diversity, that quantifying a memorable session is also amazingly easy. I have had unreal sessions in dead flat water kiting with a few friends, or windsurfing Jaws in the early days with nobody out, paddling my SUP through the

canals of Venice before anyone knew what a SUP was! And on and on and on. We are lucky because sports like kitesurfing give you memorable sessions over and over and over again, and it does not take extraordinary conditions to have those sessions… they happen all the time! We’re very lucky. — LEWIS CRATHERN

How does it feel to see your name on so much gear?!

Strange. But good at the same time. I have dedicated pretty much my entire life to board sports, both as an athlete and as a developer of gear to ride. It’s nice that I am still able to do it, have so much fun at it, and have been able to share that stoke with so many people around the world through the sports that I have helped to get going and promote. I don’t need to see Naish everywhere, but I like meeting people who are stoked on the sports, regardless of what brand they ride. And it is an added bonus if their experiences on Naish equipment has added to that stoke! — PAUL SERIN

When you started kiteboarding at the end of the 90s did you know that it would become so big so fast? And do you think the same scenario is going to happen with the wing?

In the beginning I knew that kiting was going to grow big, because it was SO MUCH FUN in flat water and ‘normal’ wind conditions, and you could jump without waves! That was insane. I did not foresee it growing as big as it has though, because in the early days it was pretty extreme. The evolution of the kites has allowed people to get into it that likely would not have survived their first hour on a two line kite, so the sport has become much more accessible. The wing adds to the world of wind and water sports. I see it

“The evolution of the kites has allowed people to get into it that likely would not have survived their first hour on a two line kite!”

How much do you have Maui to thank for where you are today? Why is it such an important and special place?

I actually prefer Oahu… And wish that I were still spending more time there to balance out the time I am on Maui. I think that Maui is amazing… but you do not want to spend all of your time here, as an athlete or as a designer, or you will very much limit your horizons. It is a great place to be based and has fantastic energy and a thriving board-riding community. But you have to be smart and also get out of here in order to round out your skills in varying conditions, and as a designer you need to make equipment that does not only work well on Maui. Luckily I am very much aware of that in both cases. ABOVE The 2020 Pivot getting a run out in its back yard. LEFT Still got a good eye for a lip...

— JEROME CLOETENS

Any tips for staying fit and having such a long and ‘boundary pushing’ career?

Avoid injury at all cost. Keep riding as much as you can… and vary what you do in order to stay well rounded, physically. You have to keep it interesting and fun. I know I am lucky… I live here and I have all the toys in

— RUBEN LENTEN

Robby, legend. What an incredible career and brand you have managed to build together with your team. My question to you is what is your current dream that you’re working on realizing?

Retirement?! Just kidding. I have a great balance in my life of work and play. I love to be able to juggle all the things that I juggle, but am in all honesty looking forward to expanding the brand, investing in new ways and taking it to a whole new level, and maybe stepping back a little bit and just riding with you and the crew a little bit more. I have enjoyed the challenges of business, and I have learned a lot. I have managed to get to this point and still ride at a pretty good level for my age in several different sports. I still ride almost every day… but I am also spoiled… and want to work a bit less. I would want to stay very in touch with the brand, but maybe hand off some of the stress to younger and more business-savvy people… And then to focus on what I love and am actually better at, which is being out in the wind and waves. ◼

Robby Naish

— TKM

the world to keep me busy. There is always something to test, and usually from three sports at once. I know most people don’t have that luxury and time is limited. So do what you can to say fit between sessions or holidays… even if it is just ten minutes of push ups and sit ups and working with a TRX suspension trainer in your house. You don’t have to go to a gym – a little bit all the time goes a long way towards staying in shape for when you do have the chance to get out on the water so you can make the most of it!

Tangled Lines Legends

growing, without a doubt. The simplicity is very appealing to many people. Obviously you can’t do with a wing everything that you can do with a kite. But it has appeal, especially in places with limited access to the water, with no beach, trees on the shore, gusty winds etc. It certainly has a place… no doubt. And it will continue to develop and grow.

NorCal ON THE LIST

You know that classic California image of sunny beaches, surfer bros and babes, and all the glamour of the big city? Well, yes, that's definitely California. But from a kitesurfing perspective it's another beast entirely... The kite spots of Northern California are on the bucket list for many avid kiters, but the reality – while epic – is a far cry from that California dream… WORDS Crystal Veness

Photo: Crystal Veness

Photo: Evan Vangelis

As kiteboarders, we're often on the chase for our own version of the perfect session. For many, it's a tropical climate with palm trees swaying in the breeze... The possibility of riding along a virgin shoreline for hours exploring the world from the water... And a boozefilled coconut to cap off the best session of our lives (of course)! In Northern Californa, it's the urban sprawl that makes the kite spots unique. The scenery is something that kiters don't typically seek out, but it's another sort of special experience. Summer in San Francisco brings with it the possibility of kiting almost every day, as long as you're willing to drive. If you're a SF local, the appeal of driving from work to the beach to get a session in can't be beat! On a clear, windy day the locals head to Crissy Field where they launch on a small beach in fluky, gusty wind surrounded by tourists, joggers, and cyclists at one of the most photographed spots in the city. On any given day, you'll find an odd blend of kiters in camper vans, Tesla's, and the occasional VIP in a super luxury vehicle. Those that can brave the difficult (and often extremely dangerous) conditions are treated to their own private water tour of San Francisco. This is most certainly a spot where a chat with a local kiter on the beach is an absolute requirement before launching. Crissy Field is not for the faint of heart! Other options include Ocean Beach, a huge, wide sandy beach stretching along the western shore of

the city. It is a spot that looks much more manageable, and yet... isn't. You'll need a thick wetsuit and a lot of experience in heavy water and surf. The waves here resemble more of a washing machine, but rather than clothes you can expect to be in the mix with strong currents, riptides, and that eerie feeling of predators in the water. Those that need the session and can handle the heavy surf will be rewarded with the opportunity to be the only kiter (or one of very few) on the beach in one of the biggest cities in the USA. If (as often happens) Ocean Beach and Crissy Field are covered in a thick, cool layer of fog, the wind at Sherman Island is probably working! Sherman Island is just over an hour east of the city on the Sacramento River Delta. This spot feels like being out in the wild, but a 10-minute drive will drop you back into the heart of urban California. It has the warmest water in the area, and while the launch can be tricky to navigate (launching near the car park and walking upwind through a maze of prickly bushes and into the water before starting in direct onshore conditions), it's absolutely worth it. Warmer water, steady summer wind, and a great Burning Man-esque energy on the beach... This is the best place for the visiting kiter to get an introduction to Bay Area kiteboarding. There's a friendly, eclectic, and awesome group of locals that camp out at this spot throughout the summer. And be warned: a few days of kiting in this spot can easily turn into a few weeks… ▶

On The List

Northern California 42

Photo: Crystal Veness

When it’s not windy there are a million and one other things to do. Back on the way to the city is a spot called Pittsburg, where the local city council has been working on creating a welcoming environment for kiters. In the city park there's a rocky spit with ramps for kiters to launch from, and the unique backdrop with industrial stacks and processing plants is something worth exploring. This is another spot for the experienced kiter where the ability to get back to the spot you started from is absolutely necessary! Otherwise, you'll be hiking through thick grass downwind in search of a road. There's also the massive amount of water movement when the tides are ebbing and flooding, and if you're caught on the water during the wrong one, you'll definitely be swimming! If you can't resist the lure of virgin coastline, Waddell Creek on the way down to Santa Cruz is the place to be. This is where you'll get that taste of the California surf lifestyle, and it's the crème-de-la-crème for wave kiters that don't mind cold ocean conditions. Here, you'll see rocky cliffs dropping off into the Pacific Ocean in a staggering display of nature's ability. You may also encounter paddle surfers so be sure to learn and respect the wave riders ‘right of way’ rules if you hope to be able to ride there again... When it's not windy, you also have the good fortune of being in a location where there are a million and one other things to do. Whether it's arts and culture, exploring the fruits of the Napa Valley, or delectable dining and nightlife, the options available to visitors to San Francisco are truly limitless. ◼

GETTING THERE Fly into San Francisco, Oakland (closest to Sherman Island), or San Jose (closest to Santa Cruz) and rent a car! If you're driving around and exploring kite spots, make sure you have cash on hand to pay road and bridge tolls or have a FasTrak equipped on your vehicle. STAYING THERE Be sure to have a budget set aside for lodging, especially if you want to be in the heart of the city in some nice digs. Hotels cost $200-300

Photo: Evan Vangelis

per night, but if you're making use of last minute booking sites like HotelsTonight or Hotwire, you can definitely get a deal. Or if you're not too picky, you can find a dodgy motel for around $100 a night. IN THE BAG Bring everything! A selection of boards is possibly even more important than a selection of kites. With wind blowing anywhere from 10 knots to 30 knots depending on the spot, you'll want to be prepared for anything. And with a foil in

the bag you will be able to ride anywhere, anytime, and have the most opportunity for a session with the least likelihood of a kitemare or a long swim. RUBBER On the ocean side, a 4mm or 5mm wetsuit is the best call. In Sherman Island, a summer suit or shorty will work most days. BEER Expect to spend $7 or $8 for a beer at the bar... but San Francisco has a

ton of awesome happy hour options to check out! MOST LIKELY TO HEAR “Ugh, somebody broke into my car again!” LEAST LIKELY TO HEAR “La Ventana? Never been!”

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Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;M ON IT CARLOS MARIO

When the Brazilian freestyle machine blazed onto the scene he pretty much redefined competitive kiteboarding overnight. If you couldn’t land flawless double passes every time, then you couldn’t compete… This season has proven that he isn’t completely bombproof and given the rest of the freestyle riders a glimmer of hope, but there is no doubt that when ‘Bebe’ is on his game, he is unbeatable. So, what does he stick to his feet?

I want a board that I can go big on to complete my handlepasses, and I need a board that is good for unhooking but also good for Big Air. The Asylum has a vertically laminated wood core, and a new carbon stringer along the center of the board with a continuous rocker, stiff flex pattern and urethane side walls. The new carbon stringer has added more pop and ‘snap’ and has made the pop last longer – over time wood can lose pop, so the carbon extends the ‘pop lifetime’. I have been riding the Asylum since I started riding for Slingshot in 2013/2014. Before Slingshot, I used any board I could get my hands on! When I am choosing a board then I want something that will go fast, and go big. I want maximum pop and soft landings. The Asylum’s channels in the center of the board help me get pop in choppy conditions, and the chan-

nels create more drive and upwind than any other board I have ridden. It is a very versatile board which I always train on, as it is the board I always use for competitions. I really enjoy testing the boards that Slingshot bring to Brazil for me and working on the R&D side. Slingshot send me many boards to give feedback on, and they keep getting better! I love kiteboarding at home in Caiupe Lagoon. I live next to the lagoon and it’s the best place in the world to kite. I have so many good memories from this lagoon and it has given me so much: I am eternally grateful. I always travel with two sizes of the Asylum and choose which one to ride depending on the conditions – I use the 141 for freestyle and the 138 for Big Air. If I ride other boards in the Slingshot line up then I use the Misfit 133 or 137 for Big Air in strong wind, where I really like the fast rocker and the new outline. ◼

BOARD Slingshot Asylum DIMENSIONS 141 + 138cm RIDER HEIGHT 168cm RIDER WEIGHT 77kg

ØYVIND PROFILE

The internet – if you had not realized – is a weird and wonderful place. Great for checking out what your favorite kiters are up to and for eyeing up the latest kit on the market. It is also great for making you stop, and go “Woah?!”, as was the case when we spotted some clips of Øyvind Nøstdal and his foil riding antics without a stabilizer… PHOTOS Alain Nicolas

NØSTDAL

For anyone who has not seen your videos, can you talk us through your ‘style’ of foiling?

Well a few people have commented to me that I seem to be riding the hydrofoil like a skateboard. I quite like that analogy, and when riding it does indeed feel like skateboarding. I think skateboarding is a really cool sport, and I`m happy to do it on water, where falling down hurts a lot less than the streets! What foil are you riding and how did you arrive at a place where you managed to get a ‘mono’ foil to work for you?

My current favorite setup is the board from Horue, and the 1200 wing from Ketos, on a 70cm mast. My first Ketos foil had a large back wing which I then replaced with the very small XS back wing, and found it to be exponentially more fun and exciting. The small back wing seemed to hint at a whole new dimension of riding, with quick turns and sliding sideways. The logical next step for me was to look for even smaller back wings. I did not find that, but I did find a discussion forum, where foilers were discussing "stab-less" riding. So, I gave it a go, removed the stabilizer, and went riding without it. At first the experience was actually uncomfortable, as the up/down direction (pitch) becomes a manual control that needs constant adjustment relative to changes in speed. But after about an hour of riding, the pitch control becomes automatic. I guess once the brain figures out the play rules, it just becomes a subconscious behavior. So were you converted to this new way of riding straight away?

Well, when I switched back to my foil with the stabilizer, since I wanted to go back to riding something that I was comfortable with, I had a very surprising moment: the feeling was of excessive drag. I actually stopped to check if there was any sort of debris stuck to the foil! So, I realized that I had tasted something amazing, and now wanted more of that sweet, easy, slip-through-the-water feeling. I quickly switched back to the stab-less, and yes indeed it ‘slips’ through the water much more easily. So with the benefit of less drag and the increased fun factor of easy sideways sliding and drifting, this was a clear choice as my new favorite foil setup. Do you customize the foils yourself?

The 1200 Ketos wing seems perfect already, and I can’t imagine how this could be improved. But the fuselage I have had custom-made at a local carbon-fiber product builder. This is because just removing the stabilizer leaves the sharp fuselage sticking out behind the foil. So I got a custom mini fuselage made, to be just the right size to attach only a front wing to the mast. What are the main ‘pros and cons’ then to stab-less riding?

Well the pros would be: less drag, easier to make quick turns and 360s, more playful, lighter, and easier to re-enter the water when landing from a jump. The cons: some re-learning required, more tiring, harder to do tricks like sitting on the board. Which kite are you using and how does this help you to ride the way that you do?

I am riding Maui Cloud kites. These kites are great for freestyle and for freeride foiling. They loop very quickly, so only a small size is enough to ride. I usually use only half the size of what other kiters that are foiling are using, which is due to the Cloud kite’s ability to fast-loop, as well as the reduced drag of a stab-less foil.

Okay, two particularly crazy moves we’ve spotted, can you take us through them… The shove-it – HOW do you manage this on a foil?

This is actually not too difficult on a stab-less foil. On a foil with a full fuselage and a stabilizer it would be more difficult, as such foils resist sideways turning in the water. So for the shove-it you just need to be airborne before sending the board into a sideways spin.

The ‘throw launch’ – how do you do this?

Yes, when I use small kites it’s fun to ‘play around’ with the kite, as these are very light and easy to maneuver. I have a few fun and unusual launch tricks. Throwing it up is one, then another fun launch is to just grab the kite, and let it fly up while sliding the lines out by hand. What is the potential for your style of foiling – where do you see it going?

I think freestyle foiling is going to be more like skateboarding. And styles and tricks from skateboards will be done on a hydrofoil. And if we get some of the young and fearless skateboard riders starting to kite foil, I think there will be an explosion of new tricks and we’ll see new levels of what is possible. ◼

BEAC

SWEDEN JOHANNA- CATHARINA EDIN

Think Sweden, think epic kitesurfing? Nope, nor did we. But GKA rider Johanna-Catharina Edin promised us that it was the place to be, so we asked her to give us the lowdown on the Swedish scene… PHOTOS Felix Moström

What are your first recollections of beaches close to home?

The best memories from my childhood have always included the ocean. I grew up in a small town called Varberg – which is 45 minutes south of Gothenburg – with my parents and two older brothers. I grew up spending a few weeks of every summer sailing around Sweden and Denmark in my family’s 26 foot sailing boat. Sailing in the region, weather usually shifts from sunshine to storms, with varying climates just within a day. I never really mind the ‘bad’ weather and I guess thanks to that I got into kitesurfing so easily in Sweden. Can you remember any of your first kite sessions?

I clearly remember the first time getting up and riding on my first 15 meter kite. My arms were shaking and my heart was beating so fast. From that moment on, I knew I was hooked. Since that day, I have been kitesurfing every single day there is wind… Who else did you ride there with?

Back when I started kiting, I used to ride with guys from the local kite school. In wintertime we were always the same group of 5-10 people, as not many people could handle the freezing water, and back then there were less girls on the water – thankfully that has changed over the last few years and nowadays there can be more females riding than men which is super cool to see. I always get inspired by my friend Lisa, who started kiting in her 40s and is absolutely shredding. Can you talk us through the typical conditions?

There are so many spots around the region where we can kite. At my normal home spot, there is pretty much always a little wind so you can foil every day. Then there’s a fun spot on the west coast of Sweden where we only get wind swell. This means the more wind the more waves, so I love it when the first autumn storms come because it’s the best time to score waves and the water is still not too cold. My perfect day would be a stormy southwesterly autumn day on a 6m kite with nice waves. ▶

“I love it when the first autumn storms come because it’s the best time to score waves and the water is still not too cold.”

Sweden My Beach

“In summer the daylight lasts until midnight which means you can kite pretty much all night.”

What is the set up like, and has it changed over the years?

Apelviken and Läjet are two bays next to each other and are two of the most famous spots for kitesurfing in Varberg. Both spots have a long beach and it’s easy to launch on the beach. Over the years more and more cafés and restaurants have popped up which is super nice. The local surf community is doing a great job of bringing surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers together under the same roof.

Do you think you would have got to where you are today if you hadn’t grown up in Sweden?

Well my home spot has definitely had a huge impact on where I am at today. I have learnt to ride in all types of weather: stormy, light wind, and gusty conditions. So I am now comfortable riding in contest locations with sketchy winds because of what I have learned from riding there in my home spot. And the more I travel, the more I realize how lucky I have been growing up next to the ocean…

Are there some sessions that really stand out?

I’ve had some sessions that stand out during the summer where the daylight lasts until midnight which means you can kite pretty much all night. It’s such an amazing experience to be able to kitesurf until this late and of course it’s something you can’t do many places in the world. Where’s your favorite place to head after a session?

There is a famous steak house called John’s Place which has absolutely amazing food and is definitely a favorite after a nice session. Better have some smart clothes in the car though as it’s quite a formal spot…

When did you last ride at home?

My last session was actually when these photos were taken. This was the day before I left to Mauritius for the GKA contest. I had just tried out my new 2020 gear from Duotone before takeoff. And if you had to choose another spot that you love but that is completely different, where would it be…

I would choose Indonesia. It’s completely different from my home spot with long period swell and reef breaks, and it has some of the best waves in the world. I can’t wait to go back one day soon. ◼

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THE MISSION

Indo Marauding

We didn’t plan this one to be Oswald Smith’s personal column, but here he is back for the second issue in a row… This time charting his exploits in Indonesia with one Charlie Wise. PHOTOS Ydwer van der Heide

The Mission

Indo Marauding

OS: Sumbawa is hands down one of the best kitesurfing and surf-

ing destinations in the world. The setup is insane. We lucked out on this trip, scoring wind and waves for 15 days straight. We didn't really know what to expect going at this time of year as we’d both been in mid-September last year, which is known as the best time to go in terms of consistent wind. The week before going we were super indecisive of whether to make the mission and were constantly on the phone talking to each other as many people had told us it was too early in the season to score, thankfully it turned out they were wrong! We both hardly even knew each other before this trip and had only met briefly on a big night out in Tarifa which we both can hardly remember.

CW: Ozzie sent me a message on Instagram a week before we went asking if I wanted to do an Indo trip. At this point I was sitting at a desk making calls for a charity company and was bored as hell. I responded as soon as I saw it and told him I was in. The next week we were constantly on the phone to one another trying to organize logistics, photographers, videographers and we spoke to each other a couple of times a day for the next week. The plans changed about 10 times until we finally got our shit together and the trip was on. Indo… we coming for you! OS: We didn’t have much, just a couple of dudes with some surf-

boards and kites depicting our riches, with one bright light guid-

ing us: waves. Making our way to Sumbawa sounded so much easier than it actually was. We flew to Bali then took a little 50-seater plane to a small airport, Bima, after which you have another two and a half hours in a taxi ahead of you, but once you make it: it’s all worth it! We were greeted with one of the craziest swells Indo has had the whole year. The first three days were 8-10 foot with the wind peaking at around 25 knots. Pretty much everything we asked for and more. Where we were you have three main kiteboarding waves. The first is a long left hander, complimented with cross shore wind, which is sick for multiple turns. I’m sure we must have had sessions with about 10 turns on one wave! The best way for me to describe it would be One Eye, but better! Then you have a big bouldering quick left. This wave is like a not-so-friendly giant. It works on low tide and you have to run over the coral to jump into the channel while dodging the sea urchins, and then you have a current pulling you all over the place. We actually had some horrible wipeouts here. Charlie got slammed on the reef and tore his whole leg open. We stayed in the “Tree House” which was a sick pad. It is built literally like a tree house – a three storey wooden house made up of multiple nice rooms. It’s one of the only places in town that has a pool, which makes things a whole lot nicer. Being located more up the point, the wind comes in much earlier here. A lot of the ▶

FAR LEFT The kite pump crew. LEFT Sending some warm water home. BELOW A long, spiky and gusty walk... Worth it? Of course it is.

“The waves were an absolute dream, but with such perfect waves, there will always be consequences.”

mornings we would wake up and it’s already howling 20 knots in front of the Tree House. You can almost guarantee getting a kite session in every day straight out the front, where there’s a fun little left. Omah, the owner of the Tree House, is an absolute legend and is a kiter himself. CW: When traveling to new surf and kite destinations it is always important to stay in the good books with the locals. This is particularly important where we were staying as we figured out quickly. Every session we were always frothing to get out there, especially Ozzie, and at the main kite spot there’s a little mafia that have taken control of the beach. They make you pay to use the beach and even to leave your gear there. They’ve set up a system where they pump your kite and do your lines without asking, and then you pay 100,000 IDR. We always got our own gear ready as we were on a tight budget and didn't need beach porters, but one afternoon the locals shouted at us for not using their services. They got super angry and threatened to slash us with machetes, but we calmed the situation down and resolved it after a heated discussion (and some bartering!). OS: Regardless of all the chaos and confusion the waves were an absolute dream, but with such perfect waves, there will always be consequences. We both had a couple of gnarly wipeouts and got kissed by the reef with little more than just its tongue. Most of the time we went kiting it was low tide. We had to walk a couple of hundred meters across a jagged sharp reef in gusty winds. Every session had a walk of shame involved. At the end of the trip we were both covered in cuts from our feet to our chest, all our kites had been stitched up and looked about two seasons older. I don’t think I’d ever take new gear again. So although the trip was rushed and basically planned in a week, it was a huge success and a memory for the archives. We came, we saw, we got shacked, and looking back it was all like a dream… ◼

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62 WORDS Gemma Hamaini PHOTOS Ydwer van der Heide / GKA

It has been an A1 year on the GKA tours this year. There have been events held in some of the very best conditions we have ever seen for the surfers, and the freestyle riders have seen one of the most intriguing and least predictable seasons we have had. Could Dakhla continue to keep us guessing? Of course it could.

DAKHLA 2019

Gallery

Dakhla 2019

GALLERY

Valentin checks the scores during the heat with his coach, Fabio Ingrosso. The live scoring has become an essential part of competition so riders can plan their tricks and know what they need to go for…

63 Local rider Jonas Ouahmid always puts on a good performance at this spot.

Gallery

Current tour leader Adeuri Corniel always goes MASSIVE! With one tour stop left on the calendar, the race is on to grab that world title.

Dakhla 2019

It is only Valentin’s second year on tour, and his progression this season has been insane.

Gallery

Dakhla 2019

Valentin Rodrigues takes his first win at age 17! And also becomes the first Colombian to ever win a Kite World Cup event!

We saw an incredibly close men’s final in Dakhla, with Liam and Adeuri performing incredibly well, but it wasn’t enough to keep up with Val this time round.

Bruna Kajiya is fully back on tour, and finally recovered from her injury last year. She is riding better and better at each event, and with full style as usual!

This event was fully live streamed on the GKA social channels, with over 40 hours of streaming throughout the Dakhla event.

Gallery

Dakhla 2019

The four female finalists prepare to go out and give it their all. Nervous times.

Mikaili Sol takes another win! Not a bad result for this 15 year old superstar.

Keahi de Aboitiz made a return to the World Tour for this event, as the forecast had looked very promising. He was shredding better than ever, even if the conditions unfortunately did not evolve as well as he had hoped.

Gallery

Tack is back! After taking a long break from freestyle, Christoph Tack, former world champion, came back to compete at this event and proved that he can still give the young guys a good run for their money.

Dakhla 2019

Mitu Monteiro was very happy with his single elimination win, but his tight final in the doubles with Airton Cozzolino was a nail biter and it wasn’t his day this time round.

Gallery

Dakhla 2019

The final Women’s double elimination podium.

After being knocked out early in the singles, Airton Cozzolino made an astounding eight heat comeback in the double elimination, which was exhausting but he was simply so fired up nothing could stop him.

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Reece Myerscough shredding the spot.

Competitors on the water, but close friends off the water.

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The beach goes wild after Airton climbed all the way up to the top of the ladder to win the event.

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Dakhla 2019

For the final men’s podium, Reece Myerscough from Canada made his first ever podium after riding incredibly well at this event.

B O R N I N S A N TA C R U Z , C A

ROB BORN RIDER: COLEMAN BUCKLEY

DREDGING This winter it rained a ton so the water was chocolate and the sandbar was psycho. I came in full speed against this vertical wall, pretty much no curve in it. All of a sudden it threw out super hardNext wave I was conﬁdent from making this one, ate sh!t, and broke my board.

-Coleman Buckley

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Gallery

Dakhla 2019

Kirsty Jones has been living in Dakhla for many years now, and her knowledge and experience of the spot proved invaluable! She was delighted to take the win at this event.

The spectacular location of Westpoint, Dakhla.

TheÂ final battle between Airton and Mitu was nothing short of epic!

STUFF

WE LIKE THE LOOK OF

DUOTONE NEO With the Duotone wave team showing pretty much complete dominance on the GKA Kite-Surf tour this year, the Neo is a kite that needs very little introduction and certainly has nothing to prove to anyone… That isn’t to say Duotone aren’t trying to push it further; 2020 sees a range of design tweaks to further refine the undisputed king of the line-up.

CABRINHA CROSSWING It seems that the world of wings is very much here… Check your social media feed of choice and – if it is anything like ours – around 87% of posts will include a wing of some description! Cabrinha have now joined the party with their refined looking Crosswing incorporating their Rigid Frame, and features that you can find across the 2020 kite line up such as Nano Ripstop and the Sprint Inflation system.

NAISH SWITCH If you thought that – after 20 years – twintip design had pretty much settled itself down, then think again. Naish have rocked up with an all-new asymmetric shape to make you do a double take… We’ve had one on test this issue and found some pretty surprising performance characteristics when you decide to ‘switch up’.

NORTH KITEBOARDING AT M O S C A R B O N North Kiteboarding’s top-end freeride machine is the Atmos Carbon. The full carbon laminate layup provides a dynamic and responsive ride, with well-balanced torsional stiffness and flex. The outline, rocker and flex provide early planing and enable warp speed performance which can translate to Nick Jacobsen-esque hang time….

S L I N G S H O T S C I - F LY The Sci-Fly is the funkiest looking board in the Slingshot line up but has proven to be one of those mysterious boards that ‘just works’… For 2020 the construction is lighter with an EPS core and bamboo and carbon reinforcements, a new winged diamond tail and (because the little things matter) a new ‘corduroy’ deck pad.

ION ONYX SELECT If there is one product that ION are particularly proud of this year it’s this: the new Onyx Select. With its focus firmly on flex, ION reckon it has managed to squeeze an extra 30% of stretch out of it for 2020 as well as keeping the thermostat turned up to ensure you’re ready to rumble when the set-of-the-day pops up.

AIRUSH MINI MONSTER Designed to maximize fun when the conditions dictate that you need more than 100% ‘wave power’, the Mini Monster has plenty of volume through the front of the board and maintains width all the way through to the winged tail. The result: a board that will plane early and hold plenty of speed in sub-prime conditions, which is what most of us ride in, most of the time.

STUFF

WE LIKE THE LOOK OF

RRD It’s a big year for RRD with Roberto celebrating 25 years in the watersports game. He has a few iconic products that have stood the test of time and continue to set a benchmark within their respective sports… When it comes to riding waves with a kite, the Religion is a classic and you wouldn’t bet against it still being around in another 25 years.

OCEAN RODEO FLITE Fact: the Flite is light… In fact, despite having three struts, it weighs in at less than many mono-strut kites… This has obvious benefits when it comes to those super-light days when you want to get on the water, but you don’t want to be mowing the lawn and still want rigidity and performance from your gear…

C R A Z Y F LY B A G G A G E A whole new bag line up from our Slovakian friends… There is the Backpack Lite, your perfect everyday travel companion with plenty of well-padded compartments and a microfiber sunglasses pocket (nice touch CrazyFly). Then there is the super-sturdy Large Roller with plenty of compartments and padding to ensure that all of your essentials arrive at their destination in A1 condition.

F LY S U R F E R R U S H 2 9

AXIS TRANQ If you want a board that offers all that you need to perform on the flat and in the park then there are a few options on the market. If you want a board that can do these things and also promises an accessible ride and more than a smidge of that indefinable thing we call ‘style’, then you probably want the AXIS Tranq.

Despite grabbing a lot of headlines for their kite line up (with the SOUL the foil kite of the moment) Flysurfer have a pretty respectable record when it comes to what goes on at the other end of things as well, with the RADICAL6 winning the freeride category in our last Ultimate Test. This time round we have the ‘freestyle’ option, the RUSH2, lined up for the test and it’ll be interesting to see if it can repeat the feat in the freestyle category… Watch this space.

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... AHEAD OF ITS TIME

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“KPL” may well now be the longest serving acronym in the competitive kiting world. Aside from that pretty respectable achievement it also continues to cement its reputation as a rider-run and truly ‘core’ tour with progression very much front and center… Once again we took the opportunity this year to set Andre Magarao loose after the main event to grab us some 100% exclusive shots from the sundown sessions… WORDS Annelous Lammerts & Alex Maes

The Kite Mansion Open is the third and final stop of the 2019 Kite Park League and for the second year in a row the 2019 KPL Champions have been crowned in Icapuí, Brazil. An event organized by us (also two KPL riders), the Kite Park League is a world tour founded in 2016 by the riders themselves, with the three major park events counting for the overall ranking. This group of passionate riders have been pushing kiteboard park riding for years, drawing inspiration from other board sports like wakeboarding and snowboarding. Their style of riding is focused on style and precision, it’s all about how the trick looks. So it couldn’t be a better time to have them all in the same place as famous flash photographer Andre Magarao.

Andre was the official photographer of the Kite Mansion Open for the second year in a row. It’s always a challenge to go back to the same place and bring something different and unique, but with the style of the park riders progressing and with Andre (who keeps coming up with different angles) we got some really great shots. These shots were taken during three night-sessions right after the final stop of the Kite Park League in Icapuí. The wind during the event was great and we got the whole competition done in three days. The level of the competition was insane and showed why we wanted a KPL stop in Brazil in the first place; to see the best park riders throw down in the perfect ▶

“This group of passionate riders have been pushing kiteboard park riding for years, drawing inspiration from other board sports like wakeboarding and snowboarding.”

Sunset Sessions Kite Mansion

Noè Font sending it off the Wind Voyager Authentic Apparel kicker with big style after claiming his first KPL event win.

Artem Garashchenko with a nose press in the dark, gotta risk it for the biscuit!

Sunset Sessions Kite Mansion

“We got lucky with the light and for three nights kept riding the kicker and rails until the batteries of the flashes were done.”

Annelous Lammerts celebrates becoming 2019 KPL champion for the second time after one of the closest battles we have seen on the KPL so far.

conditions. Noè Font managed to win his first KPL event and Ewan Jaspan grabbed another second place and became Kite Park League champion for the first time. In the women's division the battle for the 2019 KPL championship was incredibly close. Annelous Lammerts won the Wind Voyager Triple S whilst Karolina Winkowska won the Hood Jam. Whoever took the win here in Icapuí would be crowned 2019 Kite Park League Champion… After three features Karolina had a 0.1 advantage, but Annelous landed a left foot line which scored one point higher and took the win of the Kite Mansion Open and saw her claim her second KPL title.

The riders had been pushing it during the Kite Mansion Open and the battle for the 2019 Kite Park League championships, but the riders knew that – even though no-one is keeping score – when Andre is shooting you need to keep pushing because the result will be worth it. We got very lucky with the light and for three nights we pushed through the darkness and kept riding the kicker and rails until the batteries of the flashes were done. After that we still had to pack up the park and store the kicker in the pitch dark. It is quite a mission to ride the park in the night but when you see the results it is always 100% worth it… ▶

Sunset Sessions

Kite Mansion

TOP Karolina Winkowska locking in on a frontboard having secured her 2nd place on the 2019 KPL world tour. ABOVE At this event riders are not hitting a single rail but they need to link rail hits into a line. Noè Font took advantage of this different format and scored the highest left foot line of the whole competition.

Alex Maes with a steezy frontboard on the handrail he built four years ago with Annelous when they started getting into park riding. Thanks to his performance at the Kite Mansion Open, Alex secured his second top five finish on the KPL world tour.

Sunset Sessions

Kite Mansion

“Shooting park has a lot of possibilities, so it's always cool to explore and try things. It was epic to see the level of the riding this year, everyone killed it.”

The photographer’s perspective: I don't get to shoot

park very often so it's always awesome to go to the Kite Mansion and hang out with the Kite Park League crew. In a way shooting park is easier than freestyle, or at least easier for the way I like to shoot, because the obstacles are right there, so I don't need to tell the rider where to pop so they can align well with my flashes and/or a background or foreground. On the other hand, shooting park has a lot of possibilities, so it's always cool to explore and try things. I always get back home and regret that I haven't tried this or that idea. The spot in Icapuí is very different from most

spots in Brazil so I definitely have to thank all the Kite Mansion crew for helping me. Unlike the other spots where you can just roll right to the spot with a beach buggy, in Icapuí there is a walk that can be rather long when you are carrying lots of camera gear. It was epic to see the level of the riding this year, everyone killed it. It's always a bit hectic to shoot with almost 20 people at the same session, and it's hard for me as a photographer if I don't really know what trick the rider will do, but I think in the end everyone got good shots and no-one landed on me. Although I think next time I should probably bring a helmet. ◼

ABOVE Former freestyle world champion Christophe Tack landed the highest scoring trick with a big heelside frontside 900 and claimed second place on the overall KPL ranking.

Russian rider Artem showed clean and consistent riding during the whole KPL season and claimed a top 5 spot at the Kite Mansion Open thanks to a stylish backmobe off the left Wind Voyager kicker.

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Fernando Fernandez is well known in his home country of Brazil. A car accident left him without the use of his legs, but his attitude and achievements since then have proven inspirational and he was an ambassador for Brazil at the Olympic Games in 2016. He has now decided that his next sporting target is kiteboardingâ&#x20AC;Ś He teamed up with Cabrinha to see what was possible. WORDS AND PHOTOS James Boulding

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TOP RIGHT A helping hand from the man himself...

“Unlike normal kite tuition, there aren’t many resources out there for adaptive learning, so they have been ‘writing the book’ as they go along.”

Fernando Fernandez

BOTTOM LEFT Fact: kitesurfing is a whole lot of fun.

time into kite control in shallow water – that made a big difference.” Fernando’s mentor Gustavo looks back at those early days. “For me, safety was the biggest challenge. There weren't many references or information in the world about adaptive kiteboarding. Fernando is well known in Brazil and if I killed him, I would have a lot of problems to deal with from the people! As it was a big responsibility, I always chose to work in shallow water. Finding the best possible equipment, board, harness, control system was also difficult but when we came across the Cabrinha Fireball system it was a great revolution because Fernando also uses his abdomen to control the kite and the freedom it allows his body when turned away from the kite is better than any other system we tried.” Constant physical activity and a regimental training structure puts Fernando in incredible shape, but this goes hand in hand with his clear views on performance in all walks of life. If you want to be the best, everything you do on and off the water leads you to these upper echelons of success. From how you eat, work out, to the choice of your equipment. There are gains to be made everywhere. This is something synonymous with international level sport and something Fernando picked up while training for rowing in the Olympics (something else Gustavo has focused on since his accident). ▶

Breaking Boundaries

TOP LEFT Always smiling… Fernando is pretty experienced with the media side of things now as well.

Fernando Fernandez is one of the most inspiring human beings you will come across. His energy and positive attitude is infectious and his determination makes you question what’s physically possible by a human being. In 2009 he was involved in a car crash that turned his world upside down. His rehabilitation was an immensely physical and psychological challenge, but, testament to Fernando’s ‘anything is possible’ attitude, he signed up for Brazil’s Sao Paulo Silvestre 15 kilometer street race that was to take place just three months after the crash. Through grit and determination he completed it in his wheelchair, to be met by his loving family at the finish line. This would set the tone for a life of overcoming barriers, reaching new physical and psychological limits and accomplishing goals in a sport that presented many obstacles. The learning process carried with it risks as well as challenges for both Fernando and instructor Gustavo Foerster, who helped Fernando with adapting regular kiteboards for Fernando to use. Since setting his eyes firmly on kiteboarding, Fernando has had a fierce determination to succeed at all costs and has often had to have his enthusiasm curbed by Gustavo to avoid potential injury as they formulated their learning process. Unlike normal kite tuition, there aren’t many resources out there for adaptive learning, so they have been ‘writing the book’ as they go along. Reflecting on the learning process, Fernando recalls that, “The initial difficulties were understanding the concepts of kitesurfing and adapting them to my world. It needed a great control of body balance and flying the kite without pulling the bar so much. It also took me a while to correctly understand where the kite should be so I could ride. Other kiteboarders face their kite while riding, but I am sideways to the kite so have to physically turn to see it. I took the information Gustavo gave me and adapted it my way. One particular aspect of the process was that it was impossible for me to bodydrag, something that is fundamental in any student’s learning process. But as soon as he tried to do the same without using his legs he saw that it was impossible. Gradually we created our own way, our method tailored to my body, and we invested a lot of

Fernando’s drive to challenge himself and his ability has led him on a global journey. In Maui, home to some of kitesurfing’s best known surf breaks and kite spots, there was a chance for Fernando to test his limits away from Brazil, where he trains and spends most of his time. There were two main goals. Firstly, to challenge his skillsets and put himself into new situations in wave conditions where the risks get exponentially higher for adaptive kiting. And secondly to come together with Cabrinha’s R&D team to identify areas where real progression could be made possible. Not content with simply ‘mowing the lawn’ Fernando aspires to be the best he can be and views his progression in the sport the same as any aspirational kiteboarder does. Megaloops, freestyle, and wave riding are all firmly set in his sights, but with each of these goals comes new challenges. With virtually every board on the market designed for the rider to spread their weight evenly along the center axis of the board via two fixed points, Fernando encounters great restrictions when attaching a sit chair. Lars Moltrup, Cabrinha Product Development Manager, who was in charge of designing Fernando’s

custom signature board explains that, “The challenge in developing a product that allows for a sit-down rider is vastly different from a conventional board. The center of gravity is lower and the leverage that you can exert on the rail is vastly different. We started with the Stylus production board and made some modifications based on this shape. The first point being the mounting of the chair and the reinforcement that goes with it. The size, the laminate, the core configuration and even the fin position, we’ve tailored to the specific needs of the sit-down user requirements. “Fernando puts more stress on the board than most other kiteboarders, not only because he rips and is going for jumps and kiteloops, but the forces are increased even further by the absence of shock absorbing knees. For this, we worked on having a rocker and flex that will assist in this and provide the relief on impact that is needed. The flex was a big challenge as the board needs to be extremely strong due to the load on the chair mounting surfaces, but still provide enough flex to make the ride comfortable. It also needs to have enough pop and to be able to absorb the impact of the landings.” Strap or binding placement distributes a rider’s weight evenly and allows the center and tips of the board to flex at the same time. Seeing Fernando being able to ride for around a maximum of about 15 minutes per session before he had to come in and let his forearms recover highlighted a key factor that was made part of the design brief as Design Engineer Brodie Sutherland explains… “Working with Fernando was truly inspiring. Most of the work I do as a designer can be based around my personal experiences and others’ feedback from using the product. With this project I had to rely entirely on Fernando’s experience to decide the best way to mount his chair to the board and deal with the loads he puts on his gear. Fernando was nice enough to let me go out and try his board. I was blown away at how hard it was to ride, even with the use of my legs to balance. Fernando makes it look way easier than it actually is, and the fitness needed to stay out, even for a few tacks is incredible. This is an area where specific board design plays a big part.” ▶

TOP LEFT The 'rules of the road' chat? BOTTOM LEFT Up and running: magic moments. TOP RIGHT The Cabrinha workshop embracing the new challenge. BOTTOM RIGHT Plugged in and Maui cruising. This looks a whole lot easier than it is...

“Megaloops, freestyle, and wave riding are all firmly set in his sights, but with each of these goals comes new challenges.”

Breaking Boundaries

Fernando Fernandez

Breaking Boundaries

Fernando Fernandez

It’s hard not to enjoy riding in Fernando’s company. Riding in shorter length sessions than most kiteboarders do means Fernando packs in a lot of action to each ride. The classic Maui wave kickers provided the perfect ramps heading out and fun waves on the way in. On any given day you can find a wave somewhere on the island to ride if it’s windy so it’s one of those places that, if waves are your thing, it needs to be high on your hit list. Fernando immediately fell in love with the island. “Kiting on Maui is every kitesurfer’s dream. The conditions are extreme and I really wanted to show myself and the world what I’m capable of. Getting in and out at the same point, staying upwind while jumping and riding waves was sensational. The team took me to some of the secret spots and I was able to feel all the power that Hawaii emanates. I still have a lot to learn about kiting, and the different ways to approach the wind. Freestyle is my favorite part of the sport, but I've been enjoying the waves too. I want to be recognized as one of the best riders in the world. Not because I'm in a wheelchair, but because I have skills in and out of the water that make me who I am. I want to do handle passes, megaloops and rotation tricks. I'm training a lot for this season and I have a long list of tricks I want to try.” So what did the boss make of Fernando? Well, for Pete Cabrinha, “Pushing boundaries is what gets the Cabrinha design staff excited. So when we met up with Fernando we immediately recognized his ability to push past limits and break barriers. His drive and ambition is perfectly balanced by his warm and open attitude. He gets everyone around him pumped up to

“Besides the development side, Cabrinha is actually a family that lives and breathes board sports. I believe there is much more to come.”

ride and somehow the sessions with him were a new level of fun for the whole team.” With safety-rich developments in kites and their control systems, and development in new areas of the sport like hydrofoiling and Wings, new avenues are opening up that are blurring the lines between all the sports with ‘surfing’ as part of their name. Fernando is at the forefront of adaptive kitesurfing and it’s easy to see after spending time in his company that he will pave the way for others to follow. Any preconceptions we had about what is possible have been blown clear out the water. Gustavo has the final word, “When I started developing the equipment for adaptive kiteboarding with Fernando, there was so much love in the process that I couldn't imagine where it all would end up. I just followed my heart. Then when I saw inside Cabrinha's office with their designers and engineers all committed to improving the equipment we had created, it was a very special and rewarding experience. Besides the development side, Cabrinha is actually a family that lives and breathes board sports. I believe there is much more to come, and for now we are just scratching the surface of what is possible.” So Fernando Fernandez, as well as having four kayaking world titles and having represented Brazil as an ambassador for the Olympic Games, also now counts himself as a die-hard kiteboarder who lives for the wind and waves. ◼

ABOVE Getting warmed up. TOP RIGHT Fernando's in it for more than mowing the lawn... BOTTOM RIGHT Fernando checking over his new ride.

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In To Africa

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In To Africa

PHOTOS Geoffrey von Zastrow

Africa is often a destination which is overlooked or dismissed due to either lack of knowledge or lack of interest. Being such a huge continent, there are endless extraordinary locations waiting to be explored and treasured on this ancient land mass if it is given a chance. Originally from the diverse and historic country of Kenya, I am naturally drawn to the rawness and cultural intonations of this land and I would love to entice you to step out of your comfort zone to test the tropical waters, constant trade winds, and welcoming KiSwahili people of the Kenyan coastline. Besides being an outstanding kitesurfing destination, the land reveals views into the prehistoric past not only in the Rift Valley but also the many national wildlife parks scattered throughout the tribal lands. My return to this nation was thrilling and rejuvenating after four years away traveling the world and exploring other cultures with different belief systems. My comfort in speaking Swahili came back slowly with the help of the friendly accommodation staff and local children, and I immediately felt at home driving over the coral roads and crimson soil which make up the foundation of this spicy coastline, while exploring

my past and indulging in my new future with Ozone and AXIS Kiteboarding. When choosing a base for this family trip, I went for the sleepy village of Malindi on the northern coastline due to my past history of spending family holidays along these white beaches. Actually, it was 13 years ago that I saw my first kite on this exact beach caught high up in a Maringu tree in front of my house! At the time, I had absolutely zero idea of what this blue canopy was and simply dismissed it as a crazy mzungu (white person) messing. Little did I know it would become my future to keep the kite out of the trees and in the sky while driving my passion to be in the ocean. This village has seen better days since I left years ago and has succumbed to all-inclusive resorts which have sucked money from the place and unfortunately the people who live here. If you are planning a trip then renting a house with a bit of style will help you dive into the natural surroundings and will only enhance your understanding of this incredibly diverse place. Luckily, these days it is easy to find a beautiful beachfront house online through Air Bnb, to be waiting for you when you disembark from ▶

Issy von Zastrow

Kenyan born Issy von Zastrow returns to her homeland after a four-year hiatus and discovers that some things may have changed but thankfully the hospitality of the locals and the quality of the kiting has not…

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In To Africa

Issy von Zastrow

“It truly is a top winter kite destination due to the warm, wetsuit-free riding, combined with the steady trade winds gracing the lagoons.”

your plane. Indulging in the habits of spice-trade-inspired cooking, with tropical fresh fruits and local produce, will only connect you further into the true tastes of Africa. If local staff are a possibility, I would 100% recommend spending slightly more to hire a cook, cleaner, and house guard which will help the local economy and really round out your perfect holiday. This watery edge of Kenya was permeated long ago with the spice trade from India as well as other Middle Eastern countries, and has retained the delicious flavors in their sauces and curries. Indulge in the local Swahili cuisine with fresh ingredients leading the way onto your taste buds and enlightening your experience. A pool is a great addition to a house if possible, especially in the hot season from December through March. It is nice to cool off in the afternoons by washing off the dust and salt from an epic kite session. There are amazing options outside of the ‘standard’ hotels and resorts, it just takes a little research. Staying directly on the beach is helpful to make the most of your holiday and to be able to watch the wind constantly. I find taking a morning dip in the ocean is the best way to harness nature’s positive energy and to start the day on a productive note. It is a true pleasure to walk on the soft sand which molds into an exact footprint with every step. The beach reflects the sun like pearls beneath your feet and is a perfect location to spend the day soaking up the brilliant sunshine or riding the waves that are curling over the reef. The kitesurfing experiences to be had on the turquoise Indian Ocean are endless and can cater to all the different levels of riders in a group. The wind is definitely on the lighter side but it is steady and my idea of perfect for freestyle, waves and cruising the outstanding ocean ecosphere. It truly is a top winter kite destination due to the warm, wetsuit-free riding, combined with the steady trade winds gracing the

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1. Friendly local crew. 2. A no wetsuit nose pinch.

3. Gettting your groove on Kenya style. 4. Ultimate low-airmiles lunch. 5. Winter session?! 6. Yup, worth renting a house rather than an all-inclusive resort. 7. Laid-back living.

Issy von Zastrow

In To Africa

lagoons for upwards of seven months per year. December through February is known for the Kuzi wind which descends from the northern hemisphere. It builds most afternoons around lunchtime and stays relatively tame in strength until sunset. On the other side of the calendar, the KizKazi blows up from the southern tip of the continent from June till September and it can bring a kick of power. The wind can blow all day long and stay around for weeks at a time without rest. In the cooler season around July time, the wave riding is exceptional with uncrowded barreling waves crashing over the colorful reef running parallel to the coast. My board bag includes a surfboard during this time of year as well as the usual 141 Billy from AXIS. On top of my boards, I pack as many kites as possible, ranging from 8-15m in order to shred as many sessions as I can in the waves and the flat lagoons. The reef extends along the coast and can offer wave downwinders pretty much from any A to B destination you desire. The lagoons are a slightly larger challenge to find due to the tidal changes ranging from 0 to 3.5m on a spring tide. Myungu is my favorite location nestled between Malindi and Watamu, and only accessible from a very bumpy and coral-ridden road. Well worth the drive to indulge in the crystal clear heaven dotted with white sandbars to keep the chop to a minimum on low tide. Be careful though, as high tide brings more people to the spot and choppy water lapping up to the edges of the resorts. Diani offers a larger party scene on the southern end of the country, with the densest population of kite schools dotting the beach. Luckily the extensive pearly sandbar extending from under the palm trees has plenty of room for many kitesurfers to express their riding styles. Due to the influx of tourists in this area, the diving and surfing options have also increased with water-sports shops scattered up and ▶

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In To Africa

TOP Session done. ABOVE Time for dinner. TOP RIGHT Getting hectic on the water...

my home to all visitors and ask only that the local culture is respected and cherished for her beauty, which has been passed down from generation to generation. My latest Christmas holiday was just as I remember as a young girl, with cold refreshments, warm wind, and flavorful feasts to enjoy with my family. I will always return to this motherland with twinkling eyes and a warm heart. I just hope sharing my advice and photos of Kenya will capture an audience and open minds. Enjoying is the main goal of all my travels and it is impossible not to feel this when surrounded by the sparkling ocean and pearly beaches of East Africa… ◼

Pro Tips 1. Pack strong zinc reef-safe sun cream 2. Use the ATM at the airport 3. Hire a taxi driver in advance 4. Plan a safari in advance if possible 5. L earn some Swahili words and you will understand The Lion King better 6. M inimize jewelry and stay street smart with your belongings 7. Have a White Cap lager or two

Issy von Zastrow

LEFT Cooling off. Tough life.

down the beach. Wave kites are recommended if swell chasing is on the priority list of the trip as I have, in the past, participated in downwinders as long as 60km! Famous in the kite history of Kenya as home to the first kiter in the country is a stunningly natural eco lodge named Che Shale. It is tucked in under palm trees and harnesses the sand and all-natural building materials to bring you in contact with the Kenyan environment. It has been enhancing the northern coast and promoting sustainable living in the local villages since the 70s. Justin (the owner) plays host to a truly magical well-rounded location which contains all the amenities needed for a relaxing coastal experience. The beach glitters gold in the sunshine and has many options for kiting. My favorite day of my trip was hosted on his one-of-a-kind handmade wooden dhow named the Sawa Sawa, which he sailed up from the Mozambique coast himself. The all-day trip included snorkeling, a delicious boat barbecue finished off with a downwinder. I was able to jump around the beautiful boat as it sailed home breaking through the waves easily and harnessing the same wind I felt flowing through my hair. It was a day I will remember for many years to come…. Discovering the country of Kenya is a pleasure; whether it is purely for an extraordinary kiteboarding experience or if the interest of ancient customs and people rouses a curiosity deep inside you. I welcome

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LAND OF THE

Legburners If you’re getting four of the best wave riders in the world together for a shoot then you don’t want to be wasting time chasing swells, watching the charts, or sitting in your hammock waiting for the wind to come in. No, you want guaranteed wind, guaranteed waves and guaranteed photographic gold. Time to head to Peru then…

PHOTOS Toby Bromwich

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Perfect Peru

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Was this your first time in Peru?

James Carew: This was my first time to Peru. When I was a kid I always dreamed of going to this “land of the lefts” after seeing countless pros surf endless lines which got me psyched. But I never thought it would actually happen. I had no idea what to expect and it was a real culture shock to see how busy Peruvian life was. Matchu Lopez: I’d been to Pacasmayo before, so this was my second trip. We all know that Peru has the longest lefts in the world for surf, kite and windsurfing. It is a pretty remote spot and the waves are insane. Sure, the color of the water isn't like the Caribbean, but the waves are first-class! Sebastian Ribeiro: I’ve been to Peru more than 12 times… In fact I can't even remember anymore ha! It’s super close to Brazil, where I’m from, and there are lots of long and critical waves; exactly how I like it. Airton Cozzolino: The first time I went to Peru was for the KSP [the original wave tour], so going back there made it one of the greatest team photo shoots I've ever been on and brought back a lot of memories. The waves do not always break super quickly so how do you adapt your riding style to keep it ‘critical’ in these conditions?

JC: On a higher tide, the waves in Peru can become slowish and have a lot of fat sections which automatically change the way you have to ride and position

yourself. I was finding myself using my kite less and trying to stay behind the white water before my bottom turn. Coming in from behind the section means you can skip straight around the foam and follow the breaking white water all the way through the pocket and hit the most critical point. ML: We were staying with Martin Vari, a total legend in the kiteboarding world and world champion multiple times. Watching his style, what he does, how he does it, what he doesn’t do, was super interesting and it was a privilege to ride with him. He was telling us how smaller, shoulder high waves run faster, which made it a little bit difficult to connect the right angles with the photographers in the critical sections. The bigger, double overhead waves move slower. This is when you have more time to choose the section, go vertical, tuck into the pocket and get barreled, basically do whatever you want. We had a mixture of the smaller to head high waves, so I got a few covers here and there. But the spot was amazing for surfing and surf-foiling too, so we were always riding. SR: The wave was long and critical. My main goal was always to keep flow and speed – that was the most challenging thing. Getting into the right place as fast as you can. AC: For me the wave in Peru was clean, long and smooth. If I can do 10 turns on a wave then I'm happy and incredibly stoked. It is a one-in-a-million. ▶

TOP Airton makes his return eight years after his first trip with the KSP. He ripped then, but he has really proven his mettle in recent years. ABOVE Matchu taking 'fin release' to an entirely new dimension. RIGHT When it comes to pure surf style it has been said before and it will be said again: no one beats Sebastian Ribeiro.

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James:

“It was the most turns I have ever done in one day: flying upwind seeing nothing but perfection roll down the line towards me, just itching to get another one.”

TOP James Carew putting a whole lot of work in on his backhand riding. LEFT Airton breaking up the monotony of perfect left after perfect left...

JC: For me, the standout session was on the first day with Sebastian Ribeiro. With the other team riders still on their way, it was just us, so the second any wind was present we were out there. What followed was the most turns I have ever done in one day, flying upwind seeing nothing but perfection roll down the line towards me, itching to get another one. It was something people chase the world to have. The fact that we had it for two weeks straight was completely unbelievable. ML: We went to the spot where the wave ran off a rock. Man it was so good, rolling how it should and I think I performed my best here. The wind was perfect and everything lined up to get cover-ups and fins out. The downside was the rock stank as it was covered in seagull shit and there were sea lions and walruses popping up and barking at you non-stop. Once I’d discovered these things, I short tacked up wind for the rest of the session! SR: The biggest swell was the best day for all of us. But, there was one day with Matchu where we rode and rode and rode and rode, it was dark when we came out. The waves were small, soft, clean and we couldn’t get enough of the Pro Fish. AC: For me there was no standout session, it was a standout trip. We really pushed each other’s level, had a lot of laughs and achieved what we set out to do. I have to agree with Matchu though, the session by the rock was so funny because of the walruses and sea lions scaring us all.

Who else was riding particularly well for the trip? Was there some healthy ‘competition’ between you guys?!

JC: Matchu Lopes really stood out on this trip. The way he adds his own personal style, drawing out his bottom turns, hitting the lip with so much power his fins couldn’t help but slide was special to see. This trip definitely had some healthy competition. We’re all there to push our limits, get the shot and the best wave, but we are all always so stoked for each other when someone slams down a sick move. It’s the kind of competition that really motivated me and took my backside riding to a better place. ML: The competition starts with the gear selection! This is always so funny. Then it's about how you ride the wave, we all want the ‘wave of the day.’ But you know, we are all super supportive of each other and we all have a different approach. Airton is a world champion, he's the best and does it all: airs, 360s, barrels. Seb has a super smooth, pure surfing style. This trip, I have to say James was on another level. You could see him pouring passion into every wave, which wasn’t easy as he had to ride backside as he’s regular footed and the wave is a left-hander. His riding improved so much and he was sending it hard in the most critical sections. He’s the go-for-broke kind of rider and it shows in a really good way. In Peru I really appreciated his riding. SR: Everyone rides so well and there's definitely competition between us, but it's all good. At the end of the day we are professionals and this is our job and ▶

Perfect Peru

Was there one standout session?

Perfect Peru

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Sebastian:

“My main goal was always to keep flow and speed – that was the most challenging thing. Getting into the right place as fast as you can.”

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James:

we had a job to do: get the shots. But we also came into our jobs through our passion, kiteboarding. For sure we could take every wave possible in order to get a shot of the day, but we are a team so we create priorities and are respectful of each other and the lineup. How does Peru compare to the conditions you get at home?

TOP A happy Australian. LEFT Somewhere in there is the Australian, probably still happy…

JC: Home can get pretty insane at times, however the waves are nothing in comparison to the length of those in Peru – which can break for over two minutes – not to mention that when my home spot is firing it’s freezing cold. Peru was a balmy 25 degrees with a warm breeze and piercing sunshine every day. A nice change. ML: Home is Ponta Preta and one of the best spots in the world, along with One Eye and Cloudbreak. Peru is different, the waves keep going for up to two minutes and I've only ever experienced that once before in Namibia. AC: Like Matchu, I'm from Cape Verde where the wave, Ponta Preta, is pretty aggressive. Peru is a softer wave, one of the longest in the world and honestly one of the best. I spend my life surfing in one way or another, but my legs burned after back-to-back days of 10,20,30 turns on each wave.

What was your favorite kite/board set up over there?

JC: Typically I was riding a 9m Neo with a small Click Bar on 22m lines. I find the 9m to be a perfect size for me as it’s fast and agile but also had a lot of pull, meaning you can ride it in relatively light wind for the size it is. As I'm a bigger guy I'm usually on a bigger kite, but due to the light weight material added into this year’s production I can use a smaller kite than ever. Then, unusual for me, but this year I have actually come to love the new 5’9 Pro WAM. In previous years the 5’10 was a touch too big and the 5’8 was a touch too small for my size. However the 5’9 seems to be perfect in between. This board feels super comfortable under my feet and gives me a confidence to try anything that comes to mind. ML: Most of the time I rode the Whip in the standard construction. I was really impressed by how smooth it was, how engaging it was through the carves and it was always at the right angle in the right place. The 5’2 was just perfect for me, I had so much fun blowing the fins out and the graphics look great. When the waves got bigger, I switched to the 5’8 Pro. When it gets windier and the waves stronger, it is the perfect step up from the Whip when I needed to hold my rail through big carving bottom turns and snappy vertical top turns. James and Airton also rode the Pro Session hard… ◼

Perfect Peru

“The wave can break for over two minutes and Peru was a balmy 25 degrees with a warm breeze and piercing sunshine every day...”

HOOKED-IN TANTRUM GRAB RIDER Hannah Whiteley PHOTO Svetlana Romantsova

The Move If you never leave your comfort zone you never grow. Tantrum’s are a great feeling trick and look awesome, and if you are able to front roll I would recommend you try the Tantrum! You can break this trick down by trying it first without grabbing, just simply letting go with your back hand at first, then once you have a feel for the trick you can go for the grab. Ideally for trying this trick you want to have flat water or some little kicker waves you can send it off.

The Steps 1. Edge, it’s really important to get powerful edge before you take off, it helps you really throw yourself into the roll and helps you to become more tweaked and inverted.

front rotation you’re doing but it’s more like a backflip you do. Throw your head backwards to help initiate the backflip motion. 3. As soon as possible take your back hand off the bar to go for the grab between the back of your legs (at first you can just let go with your back hand, once you have that nailed then find the grab). 4. Once you have the grab really arch your back. The longer you grab for and the more you arch your back the more stylish it looks. 5. Try not to send your kite up too much and rather use your board more to pop. As you’re rotating steer your kite down a little. 6. Point the board downwind for a smooth landing…

2. As soon as you take off really lean back into the front roll, it’s a

THE CRE ATORS

Uli Sommerlatt When it comes to engineering challenges, often a little bit of time pressure is what is required to really focus the mind and drive things forward as we have seen with some of the great engineering feats of our time… So when naval architect Uli Sommerlatt jumped on board with North Kiteboarding knowing that he had less than a year to help put a complete line up together – a seemingly impossible task – he was ready to embrace the challenge…

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Hey Uli, thanks for taking the time out to talk to us. Before we get into your involvement with North, can you run us through your background?

Sure, my background mainly comes from the yachting industry. I am a naval architect and started my career initially as a boat builder. So I have a handson approach when it comes to product design and development. Growing up in a little coastal town on the Baltic Sea in Germany, I started sailing from the age of five and went through the different dinghy classes on to big boat racing. By 18 things got a bit more professional, and I started an apprenticeship as a boat builder. I followed this by studying naval architecture a few years later. During my studies, I spent a year in New Zealand as an intern at the Twisted Flow Wind Tunnel of the University of Auckland, then back in Germany I finished off my studies and then worked for the yacht design office Judel/Vrolijk. For the next nine years, I designed one-off performance cruiser sailboats and race boats.

ABOVE Annabel van Westerop checking out Uli’s handiwork. RIGHT It's important to spend time behind the computer, but often a few hours talking shop with customers on the beach can just as valuable...

Then you had a chance to work on the most prestigious and high performance event in the yachting world, the America’s Cup?

Yes, there was always the wish to join an America’s Cup campaign. This opportunity presented itself in 2015 with Core Builders Composite in New Zealand. Owned by Oracle Racing, they had built all their America's Cup boats since 2008. So I relocated to NZ and worked as an onsite build support engineer for their 35th AC campaign. As with any project that is time-critical and involves the development of something totally new at the highest level from scratch, things are tough to plan and run quite dynamically. For the 35th edition, Oracle Team USA and ETNZ

chose two different design philosophies on how to control the wing/sail and the flight mode on the hydrofoil, and that in the end made the big difference. And when did you start kiting?

I started kitesurfing back in 2000 and got hooked straight away. Since then, it has been my go-to sport to unwind from busy work life and get out there and get in tune with nature. How did you first become involved with North?

The NZ kitesurfing scene isn’t that big, and from the core people, almost everyone knows everyone. Mike Raper, our Brand Director, got in touch with me through a friend and asked if I would be keen to join the development team as Product Manager. With the North Technology Group in the background, this was an opportunity that does not come along that often. So I finished up my work for the F50/Sail GP project we were just about to launch at Core Builders Composites, and started working for North Kiteboarding straight away. I guess from the outset you realized that there was going to be some time pressure in terms of getting the first line up out of the blocks. Did the schedule seem daunting, and did you think you could do it – there must have been a few late nights?!

There were many late nights and weekends sacrificed! But we quickly pulled together a great group of very passionate, talented and hardworking people. They have been the backbone of this company from the very beginning and got us to where we are today. We all knew we had to put in the hours to make it happen. We met multiple times during the week and ▶

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briefed each other on the progress and results, success and setbacks. We argued and discussed until we all agreed we would be proud to call the final product a refined and intuitive North Kiteboarding product. Moving on to the 2020 North line up, can you take us through your primary remit there and the products that you have worked most closely on?

The Creators

Uli Sommerlatt

Part of my job as Product Manager is to sign off on all products for production. So it was essential for me to be involved in every aspect of the design process from an early stage. With Pat Goodman as our Chief Kite Designer, the kite design and development was in the best hands out here. Hugh Pinfold, our Head of Engineering, is a legend in his own right and has considerable experience in the industry. He pushed the development of our Navigator Control System, Connect Quick Release, Flex Bindings and Free Straps. The development of our Sonar Hydrofoil system was my focus; looking at a kite hydrofoil through the eyes of a naval architect. I also took care of all the other pieces we needed to launch a full product range, including twintips and surfboards. And I kept the communication with our manufacturer and suppliers running. We know that North’s philosophy has been to rethink all elements of our equipment and to simplify the experience. How has this fed into the products you have been involved with?

It has been our general design philosophy to leave everything out that does not make a product any better. Over time, with the need to come up with some-

“It has been our general design philosophy to leave everything out that does not make a product any better…”

thing new every year, some products on the market got way too complicated, with too many features but no real benefit in performance or handling. Our design approach was more to aim for a functional and clean visual appearance that felt intuitive and refined. We incorporated specific details like using the same screw size on all the hardware that goes on your twintip; no-pulley bridles for a more direct feeling; prestretched bridle lines, so the kite still feels and steers after the 10th session like it did on the first session. A Quick Release with the option of a one-handed reload, like a car seatbelt, and a tool-less loop exchange system that you can change within seconds to switch between different riding styles. With the foils, we use M8 Torx T40 screws for all connection details on the Sonar Foil series. This allows you to assemble your foil system with one tool. The Sonar series also features a long-lasting and more effective load-transferring connection system. At the dealer meeting in Dakhla you were hanging from the wall on your foil mast – can you explain to our readers why this was?!

Haha, yes. If an engineer tries to explain design features and gains just by running through numbers, things can get a bit boring! I thought running a quick experiment would best explain how much more effective a geometry-locking connection is over a simple bolt-on type connection. So I mounted our GeoLock connection to a wall and did pull-ups on a 75cm mast, without any damage to the mast or connection. The GeoLock is effective enough to carry my 80kg body weight.

The foil market is evolving super-fast – what were your priorities when you were planning your foil line up?

Well, we saw potential in the market for a more refined foil system which is accessible without breaking the bank. A system that is modular and extends over multiple disciplines, such as kite foiling, wake foiling, tow-in surfing, prone foil surfing and SUP foiling. ▶

LEFT The Big Reveal in Dakhla.... TOP RIGHT Not just kiting... Jalou getting the Sonar Surf Edition lined up just right. RIGHT Bruna in action.

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More attention had to be given on how components fit together and to ensuring the connection details in a saltwater environment are longer-lasting and the load transfers more effectively. Can you take me through what you have on offer, and where the foils in your line up fit into the requirements of kite foilers and beyond?

The Creators

Uli Sommerlatt

Sure, we have our Sonar Freeride Edition with a Sonar 850 front wing and 85cm mast which is your allaround performance freeride package. Then we have an 1150 front wing that is ideal for beginners or riders that prefer a bit more of a surf-style feeling when foiling. In addition to that, we have our Sonar Surf Edition which features a 1650 Sonar front wing and a 70cm mast. You can still kite foil this setup, but it is more suited to prone foil surfing and SUP foil surfing. The fuselage and the stabilizer are always the same, so everything is interchangeable and modular. The two editions come in a nice travel bag that is designed as an investment for the future. Its layout allows for additional parts from the Sonar foil series to be added in the same pack. You can easily fit three front wings and two masts in one bag. Then when we further extend and develop our Sonar Foil range, we’ll make sure it is always backwards compatible. And what tech and materials can we find on a North foil that are exclusive within the market?

Material-wise there is nothing exclusive to the materials we have chosen for the Sonar Foil system. The tech is exclusive. How we have arranged the materials selected for the different applications, and how the parts go together, with thoughtfully designed connection details like the GeoLock for more durability. The ideal hydrofoil, from a purely structural and performance point of view, would be made out of one piece. Mast, fuselage, front wing and stabilizer - all one piece. But, as you know, this is not practical for daily life or when traveling. So we aimed to make a

“You have to think of every connection detail as a spring. The stiffer you can get each connection detail, the less energy gets lost in wobbly connection details.”

foil system that is modular and easy to assemble and disassemble but is as rigid and stiff in the connection details as a one-piece hydrofoil. This works best when you apply geometry locking connections and ensure an ideal transfer of load between the different parts. On a hydrofoil assembly, you have to think of every connection detail as a spring: mast to board, mast to fuselage, wings and stabilizer to fuselage. The stiffer you can get each connection detail, the less energy gets lost in wobbly connection details. It results in a more direct feel and control over the hydrofoil and increases the overall performance and ride comfort. That, in turn, allows you to load up the whole foil system much more. Overall how has the last year rated for you on the ‘stress’ level (!) and how pleased are you with what you have achieved?

I would say we were too busy to be stressed. If you are stressing, you have energy to spare! I am proud of what we have achieved as a team in this short time frame.

And you must be well into your 2021 planning now. Can you give anything away?

Yes, we are well underway with our MY21 development. And there are more things to come, but unfortunately I can’t tell you too much at this stage. But we will definitely broaden our product range further. ◼

TOP Getting some rider respect.

F I T N E SS

Dynamic Stretching PHOTOS Karo Krassel

No, your eyes do not deceive you: it is a brand new slot! We’ve teamed up with World Class Kite Academy coach and Personal Trainer Phil Soames to put together a kitesurf-focused training program to help to take your riding to the next level. So, over to Phil… Dynamic Stretches are movements that mimic what you will be doing in your activity. Their purpose is to increase blood flow and muscle temperature, and the combination of movement and static positions challenges the central nervous system which forges a connection between the muscles and the brain. This

means that when the connection is made the muscles will fire correctly so you’ll be more likely to complete the movement, and you will be less likely to get injured. Win win. Dynamic stretching should be done just before going into the water. Here are four exercises that will warm up all of the essential muscles for kiting.

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STEP 1 Stand in a neutral position with your feet a sÂ houlder width apart.

STEP 2 Slowly reach down for your toes keeping your legs as straight as you can, you can slightly bend your knees if you need to.

STEP 3 Keeping your legs straight and your core muscles engaged, walk your hands into a push up position.

STEP 4 Keeping your hips as straight as possible, place your foot to the outside of your hand (you will feel the stretch in your hip flexors).

STEP 5 Keeping one hand on the ground look up towards the sky and raise the other hand (palm facing away from you). You should feel the stretch in your shoulders, chest, waist and lower back. Hold it for a couple for seconds.

STEP 6 Return your hand back to the ground keeping your foot in the same position.

STEP 7 Swap sides and raise the other hand feeling the stretch in your shoulders, chest, waist and lower back. Hold for a couple of seconds.

STEP 8 Repeat the stretch five times on each side then swap feet and do the same with the other foot forwards. Once you have completed this dynamic stretch walk your hands back keeping your legs straight.

THE GREATEST STRETCH IN THE WORLD Muscle Groups: Hip Flexors, Glutes, Hamstrings, Quadriceps, Calves, Shoulders, Chest, Upper and Lower Back, plus this e Â nhances spinal mobility.

F I T N E SS

STEP 8 Come back to your starting p osition, then repeat this stretch three times.

STEP 7 Slowly walk your hands back to your toes.

STEP 6 Once you have held the stretch for five seconds, do the reverse and bring yourself back up.

INCHWORM TO COBRA STRETCH Muscle Groups: Lower Back, Hamstrings, Calves, Chest, Shoulders, Abdominals.

STEP 1 Stand in a neutral position with your feet shoulder width apart.

STEP 2 Slowly reach down for your toes keeping your legs as straight as you can.

STEP 3 Walk your hands forward until your hands are below your shoulders. Push your heels down towards the ground in order to stretch your calves.

STEP 5 To complete the cobra stretch look up towards the sky and push your hips into the ground. You will feel the whole front of your body stretching. Hold the stretch for five seconds.

STEP 4 Bend your elbows and in a semi- circle motion take a nose dive and then come up into the ‘cobra’ stretch.

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SQUAT ROTATION Muscle Groups: Quads, Lower Back, Abdominals.

STEP 1 Stand with your feet shoulder width apart with soft knees and your arms out in front of you.

STEP 2 Squat down ensuring that your knees stay behind your toes and that you keep a neutral spine. Your back should be parallel to your shins.

STEP 3 As you squat back up, gradually rotate your upper body to one side.

STEP 4 Once you are up fully, rotate to one side with your arms out in front of you, feeling the stretch in your lower back and waist. Make sure that your head follows and that you are looking in the same direction as your arms.

STEP 5 Return to your neutral position with your feet shoulder width apart, soft knees and your arms out in front of you.

STEP 6 Repeat the squat but this time turning to the other side. Repeat ten times on each side.

Tell Me About It

Mystic Stealth

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TELL ME ABOUT IT

M YS T I C S T E A LT H

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When it comes to finding your perfect kiting set up, often it is the smaller bit of equipment that can make a big difference to the comfort and quality of your sessions. Mystic know this, and they have been working hard on creating an entirely new spreader bar with new materials and with insane attention to detail. So, what’s the Stealth Bar got going on?

Hey guys, thanks for taking the time to catch up with us. So, an all-new spreader bar – why did you decide that it was time to introduce this?

Freestyle friendly Stealth with hook.

What did you want to do differently and what issues did you think needed addressing with existing spreader bars?

Mystic Stealth

We perfected the sizing and curvature to optimize ergonomics. With the new LeverLock closure you can leave your adjustment webbings inside the flexcovers after setting up your harness the first time. The Stealth wings connect the harness and the bar which make it work together as one piece, this drastically reduces riding up and – in combination with the large EVA Fendershield – pressure points are reduced to a minimum.

One for the wave hounds.

Can you take us through the materials and production processes that you have used in the Stealth Bar?

We call the main material Fiber-fusion. It’s a high strength fiber-infused Nylon. The material needed to withstand the immense forces created by our ever-evolving sport. The hook protrudes from the main bar in the middle to guarantee an even distribution of the forces into the bar. In combination with the stainless steel backplate, we created an immensely strong and stiff bar. And what are the key features of the Stealth Bar?

Its integrated LeverLock system which falls flush with the bar to prevent snagging or opening unintentionally. The Stealth wings make it one with your harness. And the mid-rope option which opens up a new way of freeriding. If people don’t have a Mystic harness, can they still use the bar?

Yes, if their harness has two 25mm webbings on both sides and if they have a similar battle belt construction for the Stealth wings to enter.

Tell Me About It

We had been putting a lot of effort into perfecting the Majestic X and Majestic harness series, and we needed a high-end bar that would complement our harness series. That’s why we started developing the new Stealth Bar.

Which of your team riders had input into the bar and how has their feedback been?

The riders’ help was essential in developing the Stealth Bar. For example: the first prototypes did not have the Stealth wings, adding those to the product really improved the riding up. Jalou Langeree and Steven Akkersdijk have then been testing the surfrope option since the beginning. Out of all options, our waxed Dyneema rope gave us the best results regarding wear and tear. Jalou also gave us the idea of a symmetric bar, this led to a split in the end of the LeverLock. Then we used the input of Robby Swift for the development of the windsurf option and Ruben Lenten and Gijs Wassenaar gave us data on the immense forces they generate during their megaloop sessions. This helped us to ‘raise the bar’ and create an immensely strong product. It’s a little while until your 2020 launch, but what can you tell us about what we have got to look forward to?

Okay, one insight: we designed a big brother for the Majestic X! ◼

Photo: Ydwer van der Heide / GKA

QUOBBA PLUS Dual Tab

QUOBBA PLUS Single Tab

QUOBBA MEDIUM Dual Tab

QUOBBA MEDIUM Single Tab

TELL ME ABOUT IT

Q U O B BA FI N S

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If you think that those things sticking out on the bottom of your surfboard are ‘just fins’ and that all-fins-are-created-equal, then it is time to think again. The guys at Quobba have been working on an innovative new approach to fin design, designed to improve control and responsiveness at higher speeds, the surf community have been loving them but they soon realized that when it comes to needing control when you are going fast, for kiters they make a real difference… Now to be found under the feet of numerous pro kiters, we caught up with the man behind the project, Glenn Miller…

Tell Me About It

Well, I wasn’t trying to ‘reinvent’ the fin, just substantially improve their performance so that kitesurfers and surfers have more fun and enjoyment in the water. I discovered that studies have shown water turbulence at the fin base is generally much greater than previously thought. The patented design of the Quobba fin helps to change the fin base turbulence to a more ordered water flow, which in turn brings more speed, lift and hold. What are the main design features of Quobba fins, in comparison to the typical standard fin shapes used over the last 50 years?

The most noticeable design difference (we term it ‘hydro transfer technology’) is the shape of the fin base where it meets the surface of the underside of the surfboard, so Quobba Fins all have a flared ‘caudal keel’ shape near the base of the fin and ‘vents’ (long skinny holes going right through the entire fin) under the flared ‘caudal keel’ area. They also have a mini fin shape running horizontally above the caudal keel (known as a ‘chop stopper’). Then the overall fin template above the patented base can be made to any template shape. See our current line-up on the left. As a result of these three main features, Quobba Fins provide greater performance in these areas:

- Increased ability to ‘hold’ the entire surfboard onto the face of the wave. - Increased ‘drive’ (or momentum) out of turns. - For kitesurfing, Quobba Fins have an ever-increasing speed differential to the point that they can withstand high speed runs without cavitating or ‘bucking’ the kitesurfer off the board. - Quobba fins have tremendous stability at all speeds, but this is especially noticeable at those higher speeds that kiters mostly move at. You guys are based at Margaret River – is this where most of your testing is done and who are the main players when it comes to testing the products?

Yes we are based in Margaret River and it has been the main place we have been using both top level local and international kiters (as they travel through Margaret River) to test our fin system. We’ve also had surfers all over the world testing the fins in all sorts of conditions, from playful beachbreaks in Bali to 30-foot deadly waves at Western Australia’s notorious wave: The Right. The main kitesurfer who originally started testing our fins was Ry Blakeney (from Perth) who regularly kitesurfs at Margaret River. Ry introduced us to his fellow kiters like Charlie Wise, then more recently the Margies guys like Aaron Cockman and other professionals who have been instrumental in assisting us in testing our Quobba fins. Ry also kindly introduced us to some of the Duotone kitesurf team, including Airton Cozzolino, Matchu Lopes, James ▶

Quobba Fins

Hey Glenn, thanks for taking the time out to catch up with us. So, surfboard fins have been around for a while – what gave you the idea to try to revisit the design?

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“Over the last 10 years, I started researching science papers and I worked out that it’s predominantly the base of the fin that needs to change.”

Tell Me About It

Quobba Fins

Carew and others, and they have given us very positive feedback. James Carew in particular has been raving about Quobba fins and he just secured second place in the recent GKA contest in Mauritius on them. Also, we just got a message from Charlie Wise saying “Everyone’s on Quobba, literally everyone!” which we are pretty excited about. When did you begin researching the project seriously and how do you begin to work out what ‘works’ and what ‘doesn’t work’, when there are so many variables at play?

I started experimenting with fins when I was living up at a heavy surf spot north of Carnarvon (Western Australia) back in the early 80s. Most surfboards were fitted with single fins back then. I simply wanted to make my surfboard go faster. I ended up staying up there for a fair few months and over time since then, I’ve been constantly thinking about it. Over the last 10 years, I started researching science papers from various universities around the world and I worked out that it’s predominantly the base of the fin that needs to change and that by ‘splitting’ the water (not separating it) as it runs along the outside of the fin and the fin base, the entire fin will have less overall drag, more forward thrust and more hold. The entire Quobba fin design, including the ‘caudal keel’ shape, the ‘venting holes’ effect and the ‘chop stopper’ mini side foils, all work together in unison, to increase fin performance. What are the fins made from?

As Quobba fins have the potential to travel much faster through the water, we needed a material that was super strong yet lightweight and had just the right flex pattern. We settled upon a Swiss company’s invention that is known generically as ‘high performance metal replacement polymer’ and is known for use in the motor industry for use in making strong, light weight engine blocks! In essence, our Quobba fin material is either 50% chopped glass fiber or 40% chopped carbon fiber which is then mixed in with some metal ash and a very high tensile resin. It’s amazing stuff, being super strong and light. We’ve also received lots of comments from our test pilots that they’ve been really impressed how durable the fins are when hitting reef, rocks and sand bars, which is a bonus!

Can you test this type of fin in the ‘lab’ as well as in the water?

A while back we set up a collaboration with a hydrodynamics/fluid dynamics company (run by a University of Western Australia professor) to conduct a CFD (computer fluid dynamics) comparison between Quobba fins and standard fins. The results were amazing, as the CFD test result showed an impressive performance enhancement of our Quobba fins when compared to standard fins. For example, the average additional lateral force (extra lateral forces result in extra lift) at 25km/h board speed on Quobba Fins (force measured in newtons) showed an average 38% increase over and above typical standard fins. In essence, the CFD analysis verified our ‘in surf’ test pilots’ positive feedback results. And the feedback from ‘everyday’ riders has been positive?

Yes, we get amazing feedback on an almost daily basis from not just high-level kite performers, but also from locals worldwide who simply love the sport. Additionally, our online sales to everyday kiters is increasing weekly. We are constantly impressed with how well Quobba has been received around the world by the kiting community! When did you originally realize that the fins could translate into kitesurfing?

Ry Blakeney had been testing them since the early days and from the very beginning has been providing some really positive feedback. Eventually Ry went out and won the Lancelin Ocean Classic competition on them. Next, local legend Aaron Cockman asked if he could strap them onto his kiteboard one afternoon when it was 30 knots onshore and a solid 10 foot (20 foot face) Margaret River ‘Main Break’. I distinctly recall standing in the carpark watching Aaron tearing the waves to pieces in an awesome display of speed, power and control! It was that moment I realized how amazingly fast and smooth Quobba seemed in comparison to all the other guys out there that particular day. When he came out of the water, he started yelling at me from the beach. I thought he had broken a bone or something, but he was just so excited with the performance of the Quobbas. Then when he got up to the

ABOVE James Carew has been the biggest story of the GKA Wave tour this year and he's on Quobbas...

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Tell Me About It

Photo: Ydwer van der Heide / GKA

Can you take us through the different options you have in terms of sizes and fin configuration?

The ‘Quobba Glass’ series is already available online (with a single Futures type tab or dual FCS type tabs). They are available in medium and large sizes and with thruster or quad options. Then we have the ‘Quobba Carbon/Glass’ series coming out in November/December 2019 which will also be initially available online. And what is next for you guys – what are you working on now?

Chop stopper

Caudal keel

Vents

For early 2020 we will release two new fin types… ‘Quobba Carbon’ fins which offer a really strong, light weight and very stiff fin system, for those kiters wanting maximum stiffness. Then we also have the ‘Quobba Carbon/Glass Shifter’ fin system which is an adjustable carbon fiber and glass fiber fin, that can be moved whilst still in the water with four settings and over a total distance of up to one inch of movement, that can be adapted to either FCS and/or Futures fin boxes. We have used titanium within the Quobba Shifter fin body itself, and surfers and kiters will be able to personalize their board performance whilst in the water. ◼

Quobba Fins

carpark, he explained that normally he needs, say, 10 meters in the lower wind lagoon to get up and planing, but with the Quobbas he was up and racing in just the first meter. He was really stoked.

Julien in 'cruise' mode.

Tell Me About It

Ride Engine 2020

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The crew in 'chill' mode.

TELL ME ABOUT IT

RI D E E N G I N E 2 0 2 0

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Brand Manager Gary Siskar takes us through what’s new in the line-up of one of the coolest brands on the market and with the team behind the original hard shell harness…

for the employees in the manufacturing process. And we didn’t just stop there, we also made the choice to eliminate any toxic hydrophobic coatings which is referred to as being ‘C-Free’. These coatings break down in time and eventually end up in our environment. In short, we are trying hard to do our part to protect the natural resources that we use. At the heart of the range is the harness line up – how does 2020 look here?

Ride Engine has evolved from being primarily a harness company, to now covering a lot more – how has this happened?

It has been a natural progression to offer products that don’t just compliment the harnesses, but are necessary to our sports. Moving into eco-friendly, performance wetsuits, and travel necessities – like our bag line – all came out of our desire to make products that make our pursuits more enjoyable, easier and maximize the experience. Your 2020 wetsuit series looks pretty rad – what’s new here and what can you tell us about them being “C-Free”?

Yes, so we have the APOC line which is our high-performance wetsuits for men. Then the Elara shares the same technology for women. There has been a higher and higher consciousness about the environmental sustainability of wetsuits and all the wetsuits that we offer have this in mind. We have eliminated the use of petroleum-based neoprene and replaced it with limestone-based, along with a water-based solvent for lamination called Aqua-a. This is not just better for the environment but also better

“It has been a natural progression to offer products that don’t just compliment the harnesses, but are necessary to our sports.”

Ride Engine 2020

Ride Engine has always had a philosophy of making products that offer a solution to enhance our enjoyment of what we love to do in the outdoors as watermen, all whilst being as responsible and sustainable to our environment as possible. We also will not make anything that we personally won’t use. As Coleman (Buckley, Ride Engine founder) says, “Making things to just make things does not make sense”.

Tell Me About It

So, the all-new collection for 2020 has landed. Is there a philosophy that runs across the whole line up?

The Elite Carbon and the Prime have undergone technical tweaks to increase the rider interaction, performance, and durability. We all know that locking the spreader bar in place has always been a challenge for any harness. We have addressed this with updates in both the spreader bar and the webbing connection on both harnesses. Increased ergonomic contours in the spreader bar along with a higher thread count and tighter weave of the webbing helps keep the spreader where it should be. Both the Elite and the Prime have an additional neoprene panel in the Lumbar Lock region. This decreases the neoprene stretch which in turn keeps a nice smooth interaction between the harness and the riders back. This is very noticeable when riding without a wetsuit and the harness is against bare skin or just a rash guard. Additional improvements have been made to the spreader bar with a thermo-moulded EVA construction eliminating excess stitching and piping making it non-abrasive on the skin and wetsuits. Then we offer three spreader bar width sizes (8”, 10”, 12”) all in two versions: fixed hook and sliding rope. People often have the impression that the larger the harness the larger the spreader bar. This is not necessarily true. The ability to choose spreader width allows you to really fit the harness size to your body shape and style of riding. For example, if you want a smaller compact harness for maximum mobility you can size down with a wider spreader bar. ▶

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Tell Me About It

Ride Engine 2020

APOC 54

Personally, this is what I like as it is great for in the surf and riding a foil. Going the opposite with a larger size harness and smaller spreader will give the rider maximum support. This is great for the riders that are chasing Big Air and love to ride powered. Though the Elite and Prime share a lot of the same DNA with the Lumbar Lock, Shell Skin and Armor Shell technology (along with the industry’s only hard-shell harness that has been designed from human data scans as a result of Coleman’s ‘shell collection’) there is a difference in shell construction. The Elite Carbon utilizes a 12K carbon moulded shell. This shell offers the stiffest profile for support in the lightest possible build. The Prime shell is a composite material that has slightly more torsional flex for the riders that feel that full carbon is too stiff. I think about it as compared to other sporting equipment such as bike frames, golf clubs and tennis rackets where you have different options to meet the needs of different participants. Everyone loves a nice bit of luggage, what should be on our Christmas list?

Oh man! Hard question as all the luggage has been smartly designed to make travel easy. But if I were to pick two necessities that Santa needs to drop off, I

ROAMER DUFFLE

TACTICAL TROLLEY

would go for the Roamer Duffle in the small size and the Tactical Trolley. Both pieces have been designed with weight and strength in mind at the same time with dimensions that will accommodate all the gear for a solid mission. So, in terms of your foil line up, you offer two surf foils. Can you take us through these and also through how they relate to the Slingshot foils?

Our foil line up is our solution for someone looking to surf or SUP. The two complete kits, Futura 76 and Futura 84 are based on rider weight. The 76 is a great wing for a rider up to 85kgs, while the 84 will be perfect for surfers over that 85kg mark. Of course, ability and conditions should also be considered to dictate wing preference. The kits are optimized with a 71cm mast. This we have found to be the perfect length for surfing without putting the wing too deep, while at the same time offering plenty of depth for efficient pumping. We are also offering specialty wings like the Mobula 60 and the Manta 99 that can increase the range of the kit into more critical waves, smaller surf or heavier riders. Of course, we have a great relationship with our Slingshot brethren. The Ride Engine kits have been designed by Tony Logosz and share the same design platform as Slingshot. The good news is they are all interchangeable offering masses of wing options. Coleman’s “The Process” clip has been really appreciated and presents the brand in a super-soulful light – how important is Coleman to the brand and is it really always so chilled?!

Coleman is rad, and yes, he is at the peak of being soulful, chilled, and in the moment. If you were to present this question directly to Coleman, he will say that he is not critical to the Ride Engine company and mostly just complains about things he does not like. But this is not the case. His unique crystal ball is a perspective that is crucial for us. For sure without him we would not be as progressive in our approach or process. ◼

LEFT Someone's got to test them right Coleman?! RIGHT The ultimate man cave? Quite possibly...

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Ride Engine 2020

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established Slingshot trademark, is pretty surprising. You’ll find yourself creeping upwind adequately in far less wind than expected, which lends itself well to wave led side-shore conditions. The SST can start to wobble and top out, particularly with a heavier rider when the wind increases, but, as long as you’re aware of this, and tailor your quiver accordingly, this shouldn’t be a problem. The bar feeling this year feels far more linear than previous models, with a less on/off power delivery and slightly smoother approach letting you feather your power nicely, resulting in less fatigue. The Compstick bar remains a familiar interface, if a little complex compared to some, with three lines running through the bar and a bungee on the safety to keep things neat. The 7m supplied went well on the shorter 20m lines, keeping the kite nicely planted deep in the wind window, accentuating the drift ability and not compromising the upwind performance drastically. For foiling, the SST is a little peach. That deep window position, and very comfortable handling in low end combined with the decent power dump means you can concentrate on your board skills and largely ignore the kite. It’s extremely stable and obedient and produces a nice bit of power in the turn and loop to pull you reliably out of maneuvers with a bit of zest.

IN A SENTENCE: The SST is a classic, dependable shape which is now more robust with the new cloth, and with a more progressive depower – for the diehard fans (of which there are many) it’s worth the upgrade for these reasons alone.

Slingshot SST V5 2020 sees the fifth incarnation of this benchmark wave kite. Aimed fairly and squarely at wave riding, with a decent application for foiling, the SST has always had wide application of use, stretching into freeride. The main change this year is the implementation of a new four core ripstop material from Teijin, stiffening and making an already solid kite even sturdier, and increasing the kite’s lifespan. This extra stiffness in the canopy has improved the steering and, coupled with the mini bridle, translates bar inputs well. The SST has an exceptional ability to initiate a turn in the kite really easily without having to put in huge bar inputs. A delicate flick of the wrist is enough to initiate the kite for your bottom turn, and the response from the kite is instant. The SST dumps power effectively with no flapping across the window, and although the overall weight of the kite is not the lightest in this sector, the excellent drift characteristics remain unchanged which is a testament to a good, fundamental shape. The low end grunt of the kite, a long

F-ONE Bandit S The 2019 Bandit was a product range divided by discipline, with the smaller sizes (up to 9m) being very wave-oriented, and then the ten meter plus aimed at freestyle and freeride. This year F-ONE have separated these smaller sized wave kites from the 2020 Bandit, and given them their own designation as Bandit S (for surf edition). What this has enabled F-ONE to do from a design perspective, is to go all out for a wave-specific kite with no compromises, and they’ve done an excellent job. Raphaël Salles openly admits there’s no set budget on the R&D process and this is very evident in the new kite’s performance. So, from a build perspective, how does the Bandit S differ from the 2020? First of all, it’s got less hang points, allowing the whole kite to twist more enabling more pivotal steering. The leading edge has a lower diameter overall, which is particularly visible in the wingtips enabling more forward flying in the window and tip twist. Whilst the graphics and colors cross over, it’s a completely different profile and shape to the Bandit 2020. For the sailcloth enthusiasts out there, a new intermediate 130g cloth has been used to bridge the gap in material weights between the standard Dacron and ripstop, promoting less wear on the material joints and an overall weight saving. The same SUP valve from last year is carried over and makes inflation exceptionally efficient. The well-established Lynx bar receives a higher line quality with less stretch and some minor tweaks to enhance its simplicity and remains a comfortable and ele-

WAVE KITE Depower Low End Drift Turning speed Accessibility Relaunch

gant system. The smaller Bandits were some of our favorites from last year, so we were intrigued to see how the ‘S’ compared. In the air the kite feels similarly snappy in the turn, light on the bar and well-trimmed with regards to its bar geometry. The wind range on the Bandit S has been heavily extended, and when clawing in depower on the cleat, the bar pressure and overall handling of the kite remain very uniform and consistent, and even when at maximum depower there’s zero flutter. You can feel this element of the Bandit S has been perfected in gusty European conditions in Montpellier. Without doubt, a design focus has targeted low end as well, with the perky handling allowing you to work the kite efficiently using the smallest sail possible. From a strapless freestyle perspective, the load and pop is simple to initiate, and following that the power dump is immediate and smooth. As ever, with a well put together wave kite, hydrofoil use is an obvious crossover, and the Bandit S fulfils all the requirements, with the breeze picking up the slack in the larger sizes. The Bandit S allows you be very opportunistic with your wave riding, and put in a turn or maneuver (which you might think twice about on a more parkand-ride-style wave kite) with extreme confidence. The level of depower available on the bar stroke, and innate stability, allow you to sit deep in the pocket of the wave undisturbed. The bar feeling is wonderfully light and subtle which nods its head to a product with a lot of personality and heritage.

IN A SENTENCE: The Bandit S is a unique and soulful product with a profound heritage, and its roots lie somewhere between Cape Verde and Montpellier…

WAVE KITE Depower Low End Drift Turning speed Accessibility Relaunch

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and you choose to switch your stance to the shorter heel side rail, the increased agility and edge control is immediately clear and the Switch really livens up. In general, riding the extended toe side rail feels well balanced and not at all cumbersome. The Switch carves, pops and slides very comfortably from the shorter heel side edge onto longer toe side edge and is very satisfying to hack a heel side carve into a wave. One small compromise to the comfort of the ride becomes apparent in rougher waters when catching a bit of chop wrong results in a spray of water to the face as the toe side, which extends from the centerline of the board, catches the chop ahead of the heel side edge. The most striking and unusual feeling about the Switch came from landings while riding the smaller heel side edge. It is a very enjoyable feeling to benefit from a short edge which allows you to more aggressively carve upwind into your takeoffs yet benefit from the stability of a larger board on landings. The extra surface area in the toe side feels very supportive of landings, especially when coming in with speed. Additionally, any landing into toe side pairs brilliantly with a download carve onto heel side as the reduced heel side edge promotes a tight and agile carve while allowing you heaps of speed coming out of it.

IN A SENTENCE: If you mix up your riding styles, don’t have the budget, or don’t want to travel with two boards then the Switch provides a solution at a very affordable price.

Naish Switch The Switch is new to Naish’s extensive twintip lineup and is pegged as their versatile freeride board; a board to suit those who share equipment or those who want one board that can handle light wind freeriding and the demands of high winds. In essence, the Switch is two boards in one with a long rail, a short rail and straight line inserts so that you can switch your pads around to choose your board size for the conditions. The Switch has taken many aspects of its shape from the Motion. The freeride rocker, triple concave and beveled edges give the Switch the same feeling of grip and control with a respectable dose of speed and playful agility. The asymmetric rail length of the Switch creates a feeling underfoot unlike any other board. Setting the board onto the longer heel side rail provides great low wind drive and a fun heel to toe carve as the reduced toe side edge allows you to really tighten up your arc. Carves have a slightly more staggered feel to them, certainly different to other asymmetric boards with more rounded tips. As the wind builds

North Orbit North Kiteboarding have landed with their new three kite line up. The name Orbit leaves little to the imagination on its intended use, and it is the five strut booster of the bunch, with freeride leanings. A common theme across most major brands at the moment. So, how does it measure up? From a build perspective all of the trappings you would expect from a top brand are present. You’ve got materials from Teijin, D2 cloth forms the bulk on the canopy, then a Dacron frame around the extremities to keep things tight. This scallops around the struts to stiffen the rear of the canopy nicely. There’s a liberal application of Kevlar on the tip ends and strut joints and some PVC on wear areas on the wing tips. The bridling is thin and strong Dyneema, and devoid of pulleys, keeping things simple and wear free. North have hit the bullseye first go with their bar system and it’s among the best thought out on the market. The safety line runs up a smooth running PU chicken loop rope meaning the interface is super simple and safe. The quick release is a seatbelt push in affair which is super neat and simple and the plastics all feel solid and wear resistant. They’ve had the chance to take a step back, examine all the good systems on the market, chose the best parts and add some special sauce. The phrase ‘well thought out’ doesn’t do it justice. It’s clinical. In the air, the bar feeling is relatively light and neutral with a healthy amount of feedback, but it’s certainly not going to turn your forearms into sausages when things get windy. In fact, the bar pressure stays more or less the same as the wind shifts up and – surprisingly

TWINTIP Pop Landing Comfort Edging

Accessibility Weight

for a five strutter – the canopy can twist a bit resulting in perky handling compared to its stable mates. From a practical performance perspective, the Orbit almost has two characters and uses. In its lower end it’s a fine, smooth, freeride kite, ideal for cruising about on, and I daresay it’s almost beginner friendly, due to an impressive relaunch and easy sheet power delivery. Then, when the wind steps up a notch and boosting is on the agenda, all that ease of use translates into a kite that’s exceptionally simple and predictable to handle in the top of its wind range, which is very extended and very lofty. An experienced rider can handle the Orbit in a significant amount of wind, indeed our test 9m heading out in excess of 35 knots was very comfortable with a mid-sized twintip. There’s no flapping at all on aggressive looping, with those five struts and all that Dacron not sitting idle. It is impressive that the Orbit manages to achieve a similar level of sheet and lift on demand as its contemporaries but without the need for pulleys on the bridle, which is a cunning feat of engineering in itself. Power when looping is very manageable and you can really feather how much forward pull you would like with simple bar sheeting and the Orbit achieves a level of control in its top end that is confidence inspiring. North needed to make a big impression immediately and in this case with the Orbit they’ve thrown a huge party with a free bar to rapturous applause from the punters.

IN A SENTENCE: The Orbit is a fantastic showcase for the experience of the designers behind it, and is a prime example of how easy to use a high performance product can, and should, be.

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CORE XLITE With the popularity of hydrofoiling soaring, the mono strut concept continues to spread through the kite industry like wildfire, and the XLITE from Fehmarn Island is a solid debut. It’s a kite dedicated to freeride hydrofoil use, which is 95% of the kite foil market. It’s for those who have no intention of racing and don’t want the hassle of a foil kite, but want the benefits of a lightweight kite where early flying, light handling and stability when drifting are the order of the day. Foil wings are getting larger, kites are getting smaller, and the light kite revolution is well and truly upon us. Presented in the traditional CORE kite colors, you’d be forgiven for mistaking this kite as a Nexus or Section from their product range, and the profile and span shape certainly look like a mixture between the two, but with two less struts. Weight reduction has been a clear design focus with the XLITE. The usual CoreTex three core ripstop canopy is in place and implemented almost everywhere but the inflatable sections of the kite. Where the kite has been on an obvious diet is evident in the Dacron used for the leading edge and struts. This is a special lightweight version of the ExoTex fabric used in their standard models, but still seems to remain extremely stiff. The bridle system is also slimmed down a touch to minimize drag and weight. The result is a well-built 8m kite weighing in at 2.12 kg on our scales, which is very impressive. In the air the XLITE feels lively, but with a turning speed that is predictable and not twitchy. It flies early, is very stable and it’s difficult to make it behave badly. The CIT modes allow for trimming on the leading edge and we tested mainly in ‘All-round’ and ‘Wave’ mode, the latter giving a little more turning speed and depower, but the differences were quite subtle. One of the highlights in the XLITE handling is how much lift you can achieve on such a short bar stroke. This is extremely helpful when tacking and jibing on the wing, giving

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the XLITE by people who know their disciplines, and the result is something very special to fly that will sit at the top of any reputable freeride foiler’s quiver.

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you that all important weightless few seconds delivered extremely smoothly and progressively. This is most likely down to the double pulley bridle enabling a large controlled angle of attack change. The turning speed and power delivery in the turns matches well with the rhythm of turning a larger freeride foil wing, and the radius of the kite and foil link seamlessly. The almost inherent mono strut trailing edge flap syndrome is present, but very minimal on sheeting out as the airframe shifts forward. The kite seems to be more comfortable flying with mid sheet anyway, so unless you get overpowered and really dump the bar out it’s unlikely to be particularly noticeable. The Sensor 2S Pro Foil bar is a light weight and very well-conceived bar. The thinner lines have minimal line drag and there are plenty of line length options. Supplied at 22m, they can be whittled down in increments and 3m extensions are supplied to achieve every conceivable line length you could ever require. The self-untangling system above the chicken loop is very smooth and minimizes effort, particularly after your fiftieth tack of the session. The twist quick release is a functional affair, but is a touch tricky to reload comparatively with other systems if you’re attaching to a sliding rope harness, which many people will be for this discipline. So for dedicated freeride foilers who also want to potentially take their foiling into waves, the XLITE is a powerful tool. It could also be really good for lighter riders as it flies early and doesn’t have a huge amount of ground pull and also has some straight wave riding crossover potential due to its drift characteristics. Overall, it’s a focused and well-honed product and is aimed very directly at a sector of the market that’s growing rapidly.

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Join now at: www.BritishKitesports.org

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Planning for Big Waves

G IN

BY Dom Moore PHOTOS Jamie Elliott

These sorts of conditions are the sculpting forces of west facing beaches on the edge of the world’s largest oceans, from the South Island of New Zealand up to the islands of Lofoten in Norway. The spectacle of big, rumbling swells and side-onshore winds, reliably generated by solar energy and the rotation of the earth, is a fantastic reminder of how we are actually playing with huge forces within our solar system when we go kiting. However impressive these days are, they’re not really what we look for most of the time when we go for a session; unruly cross-onshore surf isn’t the best for turns, and the ‘gear’ and ‘personal health’ risk element is obvious. This means that if you do go out, you’re likely to be witnessing the spectacle of nature alone or just with a buddy (and ideally a watcher on the cliffs!) so there needs to be a plan in place, and like most things, it helps to break that plan down into three elements which we will call the ‘macro’, ‘meso’ and ‘micro’ sesh. TOP Dom’s planning pays dividends at Cornwall’s prime reef break. Photo: Mike Newman BOTTOM Here's Dom competing at the UK Wavemasters in Ireland. Not huge conditions but they had some epic days and, wow, how's that for a back drop?!

Macro: the big picture

In all but the most remote places, we can get a reliable forecast a few days ahead. The obvious factors we’re interested in are the type of wind and its speed and direction, and the type of swell and its size and direction. Type of wind refers to whether we’re expecting a wind with local thermal effects, or trade winds. It’s important to note this as if you’re expecting a steady 25 knots but on the day a sea breeze or gravity wind coming down a mountain combines with the gradient wind, it can change the orientation and increase the strength and gust factor. As for swell, size is the obvious factor impacting your session: can the beach

hold the swell or does it close out, would you be able to swim in surf that size if you dropped your kite, would the beach be closed etc… But wave-period will have significant secondary impacts, in that a longer period means a longer wavelength, therefore more time between waves if things do go wrong, and also the swell will be moving faster. To calculate this, multiply the swell period in seconds by 1.5 to get the speed in knots, for example: a 12 second period swell moves through the ocean at a speed of 18 knots, while a 20 second period swell travels at 30 knots, and since speed is a determining factor in force, you can guess which swell would be more powerful. Take your wind and swell info and cross reference it with local tides, if they are relevant. For example, we get seven meter tides in Cornwall so it makes a difference as at high tide there is no beach and the waves won’t break properly. Now with all of your weather and tide info you can plan your session so that you arrive about an hour before your window to get set up, monitor the conditions and make sure your buddy turns up, or your spotter is on the cliff. Meso: on the water

If planning for the macro sesh is to do your own risk assessment, then the meso sesh is all about conducting a continuing dynamic risk assessment and making sure that everything is still as you expected, and if factors have changed, you know which ones have changed, and how. You’re still monitoring the wind, waves and tide, but this time you are doing it live and you are the measuring instrument, not some wave buoy or weather station. On the beach, suss out what’s upwind and downwind of you, establish a buffer zone beyond which you won’t go and then – according to the ▶

LEFT Walking down the beach and making the final tweaks to your Macro plan...

degree of onshore / sideshore in the wind – decide if you’ll have most luck surfing waves into the wind or down wind. Watch a couple of sets. Get a rough estimate of how many waves per set and how long till the next one comes in, if you don’t have the luxury of a channel, it is during this lull that you’ll want to ride out. On the water, ride out and pay the usual attention to fluctuations in wind strength and direction and – just at the point where you’re tacking to come back in – establish a quick transit line with a feature on shore (i.e. the upwind side of a building) to serve as a ‘marker’ to aim for throughout the sesh to help you maintain position and wind orientation on what will probably be a long, featureless beach. Other factors will be other kiters or windsurfers (they ‘set up’ for their waves way, way out, if you see one racing in on a swell bump just leave them to it) and obstacles that come into your riding zone as the tide changes – for example on a dropping tide you might notice boils over rocks as the water shallows, beware of this! Micro: how are you feeling?

In all this accounting for natural forces, there is one thing we haven’t considered and that is ‘us’, and how we’re doing. You can keep tabs on yourself during an intense session by paying attention to three different areas: physical, psychological, neurological. Physical is easy to gauge: are you out of breath? Are you hot in your wetsuit? Do your legs feel like rubber? Are the energy reserves getting low? Or are you brimming with vitality and keen to smash it? The psychological element encompasses how comfortable, excited or scared we are. Do we actually know what’s going on out there and are in control or are we just reacting as things happen (usually a sign that we’re a bit overwhelmed!)? Do we have our escape plan in place if it all goes wrong? Are we still going ‘full send’ or have we retreated to just riding in and out? Is this fun? Hopefully. The neurological factor is about how well we’re kiting – are all tacks and jibes nailed successfully? Does the kite still handle well or is it starting to swing and flap about? (Hint – that won’t be the kite’s fault!) Are the lines of white water becoming difficult to ride

over, making us lose the board, or are we still summiting them in effortless style on our wind powered PWC? Basically this is all about how well our brains are communicating with our muscles. The physical, psychological and neurological factors are discreet but they all depend on and influence each other. If you are feeling strong, warm, and with plenty of energy (physical) you may feel far less fearful of dropping your kite (psychological) as a result of an ambitious maneuver (neuro) and surprise yourself with a high water mark of personal achievement. It is important to listen to yourself and know when to come in; in my experience people bounce back from physical injuries caused by going ‘full send’ quite well but they don’t recover from getting ‘the fear’ as a result of feeling overwhelmed in the ocean. ‘The fear’ has retarded many a personal waveriding journey across all sports. So why do it?

The thing to remember is that the concept of bigger surf is different for everybody. If having kited giant Nazaré, Jesse Richman were to turn up at a beach in the UK that by domestic standards was ‘going off’, to him it wouldn’t be big surf. But if on the same day at the same beach a kiter who till now had only ridden in shoulder high surf, they could legitimately claim it as a big wave sesh. It’s a personal thing not to be judged by others’ standards. I like to ride out on these rumbling days as it is good for stress inoculation, meaning that when you’re riding in more recreational surf, you’re more likely to go for a big move as you’re conditioned to being less worried about stacking it. It is also a very beautiful experience and sailing around in four meter beach break surf at the foot of wild, granite cliffs is something that very few people in the history of the earth have seen or will ever see outside of a shipwreck. I wouldn’t say it reminds you of your place in the universe as there is no center or point of origin in the universe, you are just where you are, but it does remind you of the interactions of the great stellar forces of gravity and solar energy and the interplay of elements within ourselves. Alright, see you out back! ◼

Julien Leleu winding up for some fresh conditions: it could be you… PHOTO: Samuel Cardenas

DESTINATION GUIDE It’s that time again… The nights are getting dark, the wetsuit boots are out and you find yourself spending way too much time on Skyscanner. Yup, it’s time to get your next trip booked in… Whether you’re planning a mid-winter trip away somewhere tropical, or are looking to get your 2020 summer trip locked in before all of the most popular dates book out, within the following pages you’ll find the very best kite centers and schools from all corners of the globe, all ready to welcome you with open arms, warm waters, and wind aplenty.

02 SRI LANKA 04 BRAZIL 05 MAURITIUS 08 SICILY 10 FUERTEVENTURA 13 GREECE 14 DAKHLA 18 ITALY 20 CAPE TOWN 22 TURKS & CAICOS 26 HONDURAS 28 PANAMA 30 KENYA 32 TARIFA 34 ESSAOUIRA 36 TURKEY 37 PROVIDER: EASY RIDERS 38 PROVIDER: KITESURF HOLIDAYS

AUTUMN 2019

39 PROVIDER: PLANET KITESURF 40 PROVIDER: ION-CLUB

SRI LANKA 5/5

5/5

3/5

2/5

KITE OPTIONS? A 9 and a 12m will be the main kites you’ll use. WHICH WETSUIT? Most of the time, you can forget the wetsuit, as essentially it’s the temperature of bathwater. But good sun protection is a must, so rashies/ boardies/sunscreen. BEER €1.70 | $2 | £1.80 TYPICAL DINNER Big fan of curry and rice? Good. Because it’s a staple here. LATE NIGHT… Here it’s all about relaxing with friends in the tropical heat with a couple of bottles of Lion (the local beer of choice) to see away the evening before you get up and do it all again. And if the beer doesn’t cut it, you can always hit the ‘arrack’

THE LOWDOWN

WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

Due to the trade wind consistency, the choice of butter-smooth lagoons or Indian Ocean, and authentic lifestyle that is laid back and non-expensive, the Kalpitiya Peninsular on the north west coast of Sri Lanka, is unsurprisingly popular with kiteboarders from around the world. Arugam Bay on the east coast is also an old favorite that continues to draw a faithful kite contingent. And should the wind drop, this is an island with plenty of potential for adventure…

If you want to be sure of having enough wind, summer is your season (May to October) - averaging at over 20 knots, with the peak part of the season having good winds pretty much every single day. Winter winds tend to be a little lighter and less reliable, but the odds of having some classic days are still high, with wind usually picking up in the afternoons offering good, solid conditions on the ocean and the lagoon. It’s also a perfect time to come with your family.

KITING SET UP

NO WIND?

The lagoon system here offers endless opportunities, with all year round 27°C waist deep water giving perfect teaching conditions. Silky flat waters made just so by gentle offshore breezes make for some pretty darn perfect (and reliable) freestyle options up and down the coast. It’s easy to hook up with local downwinders and day trips to nearby highly favorable spots, some of which you can reach by catamaran. The ocean is choppy during the strong wind summer months with a nice break some 700 meters off-shore, with smooth riding conditions on winter afternoons.

Famous for its national parks, tea plantations and an elephant orphanage, Sri Lanka is an island with all manner of adventure options on land for when the wind drops, but the savvy kiteboarder should really figure some of this into their trip no matter the conditions. Rent a bike to explore the local villages, join a SUP or kayak tour on the mangrove fenced lagoon, head out to watch the dolphins, dive, snorkel or fish. But if you’re looking for a no-wind quick fix, then hit the seafood restaurants followed by a few beers – the wind will be back in no time!

HONDURAS 5/5

5/5

2/5

3/5

KITESURFING LANKA

LATE NIGHT… Local nights are chilled. Take a trip across the island to West Bay for a bigger night out and a great choice of restaurants and bars. We recommend visiingt the West End on Saturday nights… GETTING THERE Conveniently the island of Roatan has great air connectivity, with year round direct flights from Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston and El Salvador. Plus seasonal flights and charters from other cities (including Montreal, Toronto, Newark, Milan and Madrid). Alternatively take the daily passenger ferry from the Honduras port city La MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND HELP THE Ceiba.

LOCAL COMMUNITY The founders, Dil & Leo, have been able to positively change a sleepy little fishing village and create a new industry in Sri Lanka., an industry which gives hope and jobs to those who had none. Kitesurfing Lanka aims to establish a more environmentally consious travel industry in Sri Lanka. By staying with us, you contribute to the conservation of this area and help the local community. ENDLESS KITESURFING POSSIBILITES From the Kitesurfing Lanka camp you can access several spots in the area and kitesurf at a different location each day of the week! In winter we kitesurf in the lagon righ in front of our camp, and in summer we can take you for an insane 135km long downwinder!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN EPIC KITESURFING HOLIDAY We offer several accommodation options for you to choose from, all of which include full board. We offer kite lessons & rental and have a kite shop and kite repair in the camp. If you need a rest day, KSL can help you with bike and motorcycle rentals or arrange a sightseeing trip for you. You can also indulge in a massage, yoga class, take part in our sustainability efforts or explore the lagoon by kayak or SUP. A SECOND LOCATION FOR EVEN MORE FUN – VAYU Kitesurfing Lanka recently opened Vayu, a second kitesurfing location near Adam’s Bridge which is built on the KSL model of community, social and environmental awareness. www.kitesurfingmannar.com. DE S T IN AT ION GUIDE

LOCATIONS: Kalpitiya & Adam’s Bridge (Vayu) LEVEL: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

KITESURFING LANKA IS A CHILLED-OUT AND FRIENDLY OASIS WITH A KITESPOT AT OUR DOORSTEP, PLENTY OF PALM TREES, AND HAPPY PEOPLE AT THE BAR. WWW.KITESURFINGLANKA.COM info@kitesurﬁnglanka.com

BRAZIL 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? Typical kite sizes are 9 and 12 although in October and November you will want a size or two smaller. WHICH WETSUIT? Shallow water with a temperature of 25-29ºC all year round! So just boardies and bikini needed, and long sleeves for sun protection. THE LOWDOWN BEER $3.50 | €3 | €2.50 TYPICAL DINNER Prices for average dishes range from anything like R$10 for a simple burger to R$90 for a large pizza (two people). LATE NIGHT… Atins is celebrated for its remote and natural setting and most people adapt their rhythm to enjoy the more chilled and relaxing evenings. Night time activity is growing though and the village offers several restaurants plus some clubs and bars with live music.

Brazil offers kitesurfing perfection with endless flat spots and some wave action. This warm and sunny destination offers guaranteed wind conditions in the high season, without the crowds. It sits right at the entrance of the magical National Park of Lençóis Maranhenses, a unique and surreal desert landscape that mixes white sand dunes with rich underground water supplies that form crystal clear blue and turquoise lagoons. A truly amazing place to come and kitesurf! KITING SET UP

Atins beach provides ideal launching and landing spots, and gives access to a huge tidal saltwater lagoon. The ever changing sandbanks and knee deep lagoons offer sublime warm flatwater conditions with no rock hazards. An ideal set-up for all levels of riders, from beginners to hardcore freestylers. If you're into waves

simply sail out to the ocean and enjoy the chop and waves there. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

Thanks to the trade winds, Brazil’s entire northeast coast is as safe a bet as it gets when it comes to constant winds. From July to December you’re guaranteed to kite, with October and November seeing the strongest winds of up to 30 knots. The wind is a constant cross/on-shore to the beach. NO WIND? Wind is almost guaranteed from July to mid-January. You should definitely check out the famous Lençóis Maranhenses! The park is home to various fragile ecosystems – mangroves and dunes of sandbanks as far as the eye can see. You can also horse-ride, SUP, go fishing, or just enjoy relaxing in a hammock!

VILA GUARÁ – ATINS – LENÇÓIS MARANHENSES – BRAZIL

NEW KITE PARADISE ON THE NORTHEAST COAST OF BRAZIL

Offering a paradise beach-side location, Vila Guará has 11 bungalows and a cool beach bar/restaurant. Vila Guará and its kite school (IKO certification) offer the perfect base for kitesurfers who are looking for constant wind (15 to 25 knots from July to December), a natural kite spot in front of the hotel and the option to kite in lagoons in the magical park of Lençóis Maranhenses.

phone +55 11 97170 0171 booking@vilaguara.com vilaguara.com Facebook: @VilaGuaraAtins Instagram: vilaguara

03 00

HONDURAS MAURITIUS 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? 9 & 12. WHICH WETSUIT? From May – September bring at least a shorty or overknee, from October to April boardies/bikini and rashie is fine. BEER €1.50 in the local village, €4.5 in the hotels. TYPICAL DINNER If you’re eating local then rice with fresh fish or chicken with rice. If you’re in a hotel then something swanky. LATE NIGHT… Port Louis has an exciting nightlife, otherwise the hotel bars. GETTING THERE Mauritius has an international airport served by most major airlines.

MAURITIUS

Whatever your chosen sport in life, there will come with it an ‘iconic’ destination. If you’re into golf it’s probably Augusta, if motor racing’s your bag then maybe it’s Le Mans, if you’re into kiting then it should be Mauritius. It is famed for the insane perfection for waveriding that is One Eye, but there is a whole lot more on offer as well. You can ‘choose your lagoon’ pretty much anywhere around the entire island, with spots such as Bel Ombre providing freestyle perfection. And of course you want to kite, but don’t forget that you are in Mauritius. An island idyll that is everything you imagined you’d get from white sand tropical perfection. You may think it’s a ‘once in a lifetime’ trip – but once you’ve been once you’ll be back before too long… KITING SET UP: LE MORNE

This is the busiest area for kitesurfing and where most of the schools and centers are based. The lagoon is wide and gets steady wind from the prevailing easterly direction. It is around waist deep throughout but watch out for coral heads. Outside of the lagoon you will find the numerous wave options. There is Manawa to the left of the reef pass which is a great warm up with a more crossshore wind and a channel to ride off in to. As you cross the reef pass you then meet up with the various sections that make up the famous wave

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over here. The first section (Chameaux) can be a bit tricky but you can leave this out and drop straight into the main One Eye wave. The wind becomes progressively more offshore as you follow the reef around. It’s the stuff of legend and – if you are a relatively competent waverider – within your grasp. The wave is for more experienced riders but the lagoon on the inside is perfect for all levels. BEL OMBRE

Bel Ombre is suitable for beginners, advanced kitesurfers and anything in between. The spacious lagoon has flat water which is perfect for learning. The main center here, KiteGlobing, teaches from the beach and you will normally find that you have plenty of space as there are no other schools based on the beach here. There are also wave options out beyond the reef (with some waves similar to One Eye), and you can also take on the legendary downwinders towards Le Morne. BELLE MARE

Leaving the south coast and there are plenty of great kiting spots all over the island – Belle Mare on the east coast is another hub with plenty of standing depth water for beginners and also with wave options outside of the reef. The wind tends to be a little lighter here than on the south coast.

THE NORTH

There are a couple of better known spots in the north of the island, Cap Malheureux is a super-scenic place to kite and Ande de la Raie has a couple of good wave spots. As far as dependable destinations go, the south coast of Mauritius is pretty unbeatable, but if you are unlucky or you’re there out of season (or you fancy a change!) then there are plenty of other beaches so don’t be afraid to explore... THE SEASON:

The main ‘guaranteed wind’ season runs from midMarch through to the end of December. The wind’s strongest in April, August, September and October. For as close as you can get to guaranteed perfect, October to January is the best bet and the water is super warm. But out of these times you can still expect to get a good percentage of days on the water and it will be generally quieter. NO WIND?

This is Mauritius! There is so much to do. Here are a few options… – On the water you can go surfing, SUPing, wakeboarding, fishing or just opt for something more sedate like booking lunch out on a yacht… – Frederica Nature Reserve. Go in a 4x4 or on quads around the sugarcane farms and check out some of the waterfalls and forest. – Hike up Le Morne. You spend all day looking at this crazy rock from the water so it is great to head up and see things from the other perspective. – Chill. If you have gone ‘all in’ and are staying somewhere suitably swanky then why go anywhere? Book a massage, chill in the pool, have a bottle of wine at lunch…

ION CLUB MAURITIUS RENTAL & LESSONS FOR ALL LEVELS LICENSED INSTRUCTORS I RESCUE SERVICE & STORAGE I EXCURSIONS

KITESURF I WINDSURF I SURF I SUP I FOIL T +49 881 9254 960 c o m p a n y @ i o n - c l u b. d e

CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE SPOT

More than just a HONDURAS

00 kitesurﬁng holiday...

5/5

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Brand New Spot in Mauriius The newly renovated Preskil Island Resort is now open! Enjoy a great kitesurﬁng centre on a beauuful, large, ﬂat water lagoon.

GETTING THERE Stunning beachfront hotel Conveniently the island of Roatan has great air connectivity, with year round direct flights from Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston and El Salvador. Plus seasonal flights and charters from other cities (including Montreal, Toronto, Newark, Milan and Madrid). Alternatively take the daily passenger ferry from the Honduras port city La Ceiba.

A gorgeous hotel, perfect for families and couples with three restaurants, a kids club and a range of accviies to enjoy.

New kitesurf and foiling centre A fantassc undiscovered dessnaaon that is a haven for foiling, with lots of space to praccce new tricks.

+44 1273 921 001 www.planetkitesurrolidays.com

SICILY 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? Opt for the 9 and 12. WHICH WETSUIT? Summertime: Boardies, bikinis and sunscreen. Winter: a full wettie to keep off the wind chill. BEER €2 | $2.30 | £1.80 TYPICAL DINNER You’re in Sicily, so there’s a couple of staples to try… A good local Pizza will set you back about €7, and then the local specialty is the popular seafood dish Couscous Alla Trapanese, which is, frankly, delicious. All of this can be washed down with a good and authentic Marsala wine, and perhaps followed up with a Sicilian pastry, made with ricotta cream.

closest airport). Siting right on the huge lagoon, it is open all year round and enjoys reliable wind conditions. There is ample space to launch and land, right on the beach and also a grassy, spacious beginner’s area close by too. There’s no shortage of accommodation options close by.

LATE NIGHT… When the sun goes down (and for that you should really head to Mamacura, as it’s pretty special) then you have options for local nightlife, including an open air disco at Chiedilaluna, just a few minutes out of Lo Stagnone, and beyond that the buzzing center of Marsala, where you can enjoy a range of live music while sipping a good cocktail. GETTING THERE The closest airport to Lo Stagnone at just 5 minutes’ drive is the Trapani Birgi airport, accessible from many European cities. Alternatively, Palermo International airport is only 100km away, and an easy drive. If you’re heading in by car from Europe, the Genova to Palermo ferry runs daily.

WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

THE LOWDOWN

The winds are steady all year on the westernmost part of Sicily and the air and water temperatures are generally pretty high. The resort of Lo Stagnone is perfectly positioned on the shores of a large, sandy and shallow flat-water lagoon, part of a very picturesque nature reserve. It’s ideal for learners and advanced riders too, with a multitude of little islands on the farther reaches of the lagoon, and plenty of scope for exploring the salt pans and salina walls. KITING SET UP

ProKite Alby Rondina is the main kite school in Lo Stagnone, which is situated halfway between the cities of Marsala and Trapani (the latter having the

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Lo Stagnone happens to be one of the windiest kitesurfing locations in the whole of Italy, getting a solid 300 days of wind per year, with a summer average of 16 knots, and an air temperature of 25-30 Celsius. Through the rest of the year, the winds are a little less reliable, but also a little stronger, creating unique and fun new spots across the lagoon. In winter, the strength tends to increase again, and wetsuits are advised. NO WIND?

Sicily is rich in culture and history, so you’ll never get bored when the wind drops. Favignana island, near Lo Stagnone, has an abundance of beautiful beaches to laze around on, or you can take a cable car up to the historical mountain village of Erice, not far from Trapani, which itself is also worth visiting. Staying close to base, take in the vast saltpans and windmills that are dotted around the lagoon, or just take out an SUP or a bike and keep it nice and simple!

HONDURAS 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? We suggest medium size (8-10m) and larger size (11-14m) kites. Check the forecast before you leave and you can always put in a bigger or smaller kite if required. WHICH WETSUIT? No need, the water is a balmy 24-28 degrees, so boardies/bikini plus sun protection. BEER Expect $2-3 for a local beer. TYPICAL DINNER Rice and beans with chicken or fish and plantains. LATE NIGHTâ&#x20AC;Ś Local nights are chilled. Take a trip across the island to West Bay for a bigger night out and a great choice of restaurants and bars. We recommend visiingt the West End on Saturday nightsâ&#x20AC;Ś GETTING THERE Conveniently the island of Roatan has great air connectivity, with year round direct flights from Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston and El Salvador. Plus seasonal flights and charters from other cities (including Montreal, Toronto, Newark, Milan and Madrid). Alternatively take the daily passenger ferry from the Honduras port city La Ceiba.

FUERTEVENTURA 5/5

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in a palm-fringed oasis at the northern end of beautiful white sand Sotavento beach. The beach lagoon fills depending on the tides of the full and new moon phases, with a shallow water area over 4km long and up to 200m wide. The center itself has a full range of facilities, such as fresh water showers and compressed air to save you needlessly working up a sweat in the morning! The wide beach allows the wind to blow strong and consistently, offering perfect conditions for accomplished kiters, with the sheltered lagoon ideal for beginners.

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KITE OPTIONS? In the summer, bring a 5 and 8. Any other time, bring a 9 and a 12. WHICH WETSUIT? A 3/2 shorty will do the trick.

WHEN IS BEST TO GO? BEER Local beer costs around €2. TYPICAL DINNER Canarians love their food. Go get some papas arrugadas, seafood, or goats cheese and delicious meats. LATE NIGHT… If you fancy heading out, then the Fuerte Action Bar in Costa Calma is where it’s at. Bands, burgers, cocktails and delicious ice-creams. GETTING THERE Fuerte is a 4-5 hour flight from mainland Europe, landing at the airport near the island’s capital Puerto del Rosario. It’s about 50km to the various accommodation options in resort village Costa Calma, which is just three minutes away from the Rene Egli center.

The wind in Fuerteventura is as dependable as it gets, with consistent conditions and good weather year round – average daily temperatures are between 20 degrees in January, and 28 degrees in August. The south of the island gets the Sotavento wind funnel THE LOWDOWN effect, where optimal geographic conditions allow The Canary Island archipelago is a volcanic forma- the prevailing north-east trade wind to accelerate tion of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, about between two ridges. In addition to this, the air on the 120km off the western coast of Morocco. Each island island is heated by the sun and rises upwards, comhas its own characteristics, and Fuerteventura, the pressing the slightly cooler trade wind as it pushes second largest, has a laid back and relaxed atmos- itself beneath the warm air. Basically… it’s a yearphere, in comparison to some of its more tourist- round destination. loaded neighbors. A very convenient short hop from most European airports, it’s also blessed with year NO WIND? round wind, waves and sunshine (approximately You can take your pick of a range of activities on 3000 hours a year). The predominantly dry and de- this sunny island during any rare times when the sert landscape can at first seem harsh, but its charms wind isn’t playing ball. Surfing is popular here, with ring through, and the lush beaches and beautiful tur- a handful of world-class breaks to be found in the quoise waters are extremely beguiling indeed… north. You can also SUP, kayak, snorkel, take dune buggy excursions, or a ferry trip to one of the outer isKITING SET UP lands to look at some pretty crazy landscapes… FailThe Rene Egli center is in the southern part of the is- ing that, you could hit the party towns in Lanzarote, land, right in the heart of the strong-wind zone, set just a 30 minute ferry ride away.

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RA TU N LI

DA YS

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melia.com

F K U

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T IN E

RS A

01 9

-2

YE 19 8

melia.com Atmospheric 4**** suites, bookable from 16 years

Excellent 4**** rooms, Miniclub is offered

Kite Center

Windsurf Center

• Enjoy perfect kiteboarding holidays in the world‘s biggest wind- & kitesurf center

• We offer the latest equipment from Cabrinha • First-class lessons for all levels – exclusively in

the lagoon or on the sea with licensed teachers

• Excellent accommodation within short walking distance to the centers:

choose between the first-class hotel Meliá Fuerteventura 4**** and the adults orientated resort Sol Beach House at Meliá Fuerteventura

INFO & BOOKING: info@rene-egli.com | Tel: 928 54 74 83 | rene-egli.com

(with rotating live-webcam)

(annually 650 kites & 250 kiteboards), completely exchanged every 6-12 months

the only surfcenter on the beach

exclusive beach front location i n f u e rt e v e n t u ra • s i n c e 1 9 8 8 !

since 1988

kitesurf • windsurf • sup • surf bodyboard • kayak • snorkel • catamaran rental • school • accommodation • surfaris flagbeach.com

flagbeach

info@flagbeach.com

+34 928 866 389

GREECE 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? 9 and 12. WHICH WETSUIT? Board shorts and bikini all summer long! Though don’t forget your sun protection too. BEER A big beer is only €2 at the beach. TYPICAL DINNER Typical Dinner: Definitely go for Meze! €15 buys you many small plates of the kitchens’ daily specialities. LATE NIGHT… There’s a selection of restaurants, bars and clubs all around the island. Live music plays once a week at the Theologos beach. GETTING THERE You can reach Rhodes airport (RHO) from nearly every European destination, with average flight time about 3-4 hours. There are also planes from Athens Airport, which takes you only 45 minutes to reach the island. Shuttle services for you and your gear are easy to arrange.

THE LOWDOWN

The 300 days of sunshine a year, consistent cross-onshore Meltemi winds, 220km of accessible shoreline, and a whole lot of culture make Rhodes, one the largest Greek islands, a perfect option for a kiteboarding holiday. The prevailing conditions combine flat, clear and sometimes choppy water – so a great spot for both beginners and advanced riders who want to improve their skills. There’s plenty of island fun to be had out of the water too, as well as renowned Greek dinners and live music. A great destination for water sports enthusiasts, culture-lovers, families and singles.

west/south west. Theologos offers perfect conditions and set-up for all levels of rider, including rescue service. The average temperature of the sparkling water is 27C, mostly flat with some choppy days. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

The Greek season is from May until the end of October. Early in the season the winds are light and pick up after lunch. In high summer, wind is pretty much guaranteed, with Rhodes benefitting from the reliable Meltemi winds, giving an ample 20-25 knots. In autumn there can be some strong side-onshore winds which can give rise to some fun wave action!

KITING SET UP

Located on the west coast, just 5km south of the airport, you’ll find Surf and Kite Theologos, with ample space for launching and landing right outside the center. The shingle beach is safe, with no rock hazards. The area for windsurfers is upwind, the kiters ride downwind, so there is enough space on the water for all of them. Even in the busy summer months of July and August there will be enough space on the beach and water. Winds tend to kick in first thing in the morning, and pick up after lunchtime, ranging during the season from 15 to 25 knots coming from

NO WIND?

There’s a lot to discover on the island – beautiful sand beaches, little picturesque villages, and plenty to see in the culturally rich city of Rhodes, not least the medieval castle, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rental car, scooters or ATVs are easily available. Alternatively you can join an organized adventure to enjoy climbing, diving, or even a safari. If you’re kiteboarding through and through, Surf and Kite Theologos has plenty of kite tutorial videos that you can kick back, watch, and revise your skills!

theologos of offers one

the most various conditions for kiting

Our THEOLOGOS spot presents families, singles and couples the most perfect and various conditions for kitesurfing. The kite station offers 2019 CORE equipment to try out, a large launch and landing zone, storage boxes, three pump stations, cool music, free Wi-Fi, comfortable shady seating areas to chillout and shared beach BBQs.

surfandkitetheologos.com

Get ready for boutique-style “glamping” right by the sea! A total of 12 lodges and 4 studios provide a stunning view onto the kitesurfing spot, a pool on the terrace, a beach bar and many other amenities for pure relaxation and the best in casual living! Want to find out more? Visit our website:

logosbeachvillage.com

DAKHLA 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? Bring a nice and safe 9 and a 12… WHICH WETSUIT? November to April – something long. May to October – boardies, tee and sun cream, or a shortie for longer sessions. BEER €5 | $5.80 | £4.50 TYPICAL DINNER Refuel on Moroccan salads, fish, tagines, pastillas and couscous, the dinner of champion kiters! LATE NIGHT… Dakhla is all about the kiting. If big nights out are on your agenda this is no Tarifa, though all the kite centers have bars which stay open pretty late and some have themed nights. GETTING THERE Royal Air Maroc is the predominant carrier into Dakhla Airport, and low cost flights are available from the UK, Germany, Switzerland and elsewhere across Europe. Flight times vary depending on transfers, but you’re generally looking at 6-8 hours from Europe. Then the drive to the lagoon is around 30 minutes.

THE LOWDOWN

KITING SET UP

The Dakhla setup consists of an enormous 45km long lagoon that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, providing a perfect and never-ending kitesurfing playground, and surrounded by staggering scenery too. The wind is super consistent, the water is warm and flat and there’s plenty of room for everyone amongst the handful of kite camps that dot the edges. And with well over 300 windy, sunny days year round, it’s a safe option when booking your next kiting vacation whether you’re new to kitesurfing or an addict. You’re guaranteed to have an awe-inspiring experience in this boardsports paradise.

The Dakhla peninsula extends down the side of the lagoon, ending in the entrance to the Atlantic Ocean, over 40km to the south. During high tide, there is a shallow, standing range that extends up to 300m out into the lagoon, with very flat water, making it a very accessible and safe place to ride. Safety boats from the various centers are often chugging around, and there’s always space to go play by yourself should you want to.

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There are also a few wave spots on the coast nearby, including the epic Pointe D’Or, which does require

an off-road vehicle to access – something many of the kite camps can arrange. It’s the perfect place to have fun and make the most of the Atlantic’s epic waves. Although there is less in the way of wind at the wave spots, it can be chillier so a 4/3 or 3/2 wettie is advised. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

Wind is in no short supply in Dakhla, with an average of 320 days of the year hitting 15-22 knots, thanks to the trade winds that blow between the Canaries and Cape Verde. Mid-March until October is high season, with winds peaking through July and August, ranging from 19-30 knots, with the strongest winds generally around lunchtime. On the coast, swells kick in from the end of October and run consistently through to March. Heat-wise, it’s warm all year round, between 20-30C. But this is the edge of the desert so nights can get a little chilly and it is best to dress for it. NO WIND?

If the waves aren’t playing ball, then there are plenty of other activities on offer, most centers offer a wide variety of non-wind-based fun including fishing, SUPing, taking a tour of Dakhla town or discovering deserted beaches on horseback. A 4x4 day excursion to the desert allows you to soak up a region oozing tradition and spectacular scenery that’s as beautiful as it is vast. See the mysterious saltwater lakes full of small fish, climb the famous White Dune and experience the therapeutic Asma hot spring.

ION CLUB DAKHLA ION CLUB LAGOON & ION CLUB LASSARGA RENTAL & LESSONS FOR ALL LEVELS I STORAGE EXCURSIONS I YOGA & WELLNESS I BIKE TRIPS

KITESURF I WINDSURF I SURF I SUP T +49 881 9254 960 c o m p a n y @ i o n - c l u b. d e

CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE SPOT

THE VERY BEST OF DAKHLA! • PROFESSIONAL KITE CENTER, ALL QUALIFIED INSTRUCTORS, F-ONE KITE CENTER, QUALITY EQUIPMENT ALL YEAR AROUND • SURF FROM OCTOBER TO MARCH • FAMILY FRIENDLY • QUALITY MOROCCAN CUISINE • SWIMMING POOL • RIDING STABLES

PHONE: +212 661 411 634 FACEBOOK/INSTAGRAM: DAKHLAEVASION WWW.DAKHLA-EVASION.COM

ITALY 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? A 12 and 9m should cover most conditions. Something smaller if you are foiling and check the forecast before you travel. WHICH WETSUIT? No need, the water is a balmy 24-28 degrees, so boardies/bikini plus sun protection. BEER Expect €2-3 for a local beer. TYPICAL DINNER As you’d expect, delicious and colorful Italian fare, with fresh fish a specialty. LATE NIGHT… Drink cocktails or beer listening to some chilled tunes on the beach. Don’t miss the big beach parties on Fridays and Sundays… GETTING THERE Hang Loose Beach is only three kilometers from Lamezia Terme International Airport (SUF) which has direct connections with Rome and Milan. WHY CALABRIA?

THE SEASON

Famously known as the ‘toe’ of Italy’s ‘boot’, the Calabria region, in the extreme southwest, is fantastic yet one of Italy’s least visited regions. It’s an ideal spot for kitesurfing, with perfect wind every day from April until August. As well as the fantastic kiting conditions you can also expect fantastic Italian food and an exceptionally vibrant night life.

April-August: This is the best season for kiting with around 17 knots each day from around midday until 7pm. The air temperature is warm, around 20 degrees in April and May, 25 degrees in June, and 30 degrees in July and August. September to October can be great, but with less predictable wind. Sometimes the Sirocco winds blow, and sometimes it’s the Mistrals…

THE SET UP

At Hang Loose there is a sandy beach with a clear launch. If you head off the front or downwind from there, then you’ll find many kilometers of completely empty beach. At Hang Loose Beach there is a kite school, test center and surf shop, as well as a beach club, kids area, restaurant, bar, disco, and basketball and beach volleyball areas. Then there is also a camping area and a Volkswagen Village where you can pitch up right next to the beach.

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NO WIND?

If you fancy exploring you can visit the Aeolian Islands by boat, check out the Sila Mountain, or visit Pizzo and Tropea towns. Staying on the water SUPing, canoeing, sailing, snorkeling and fishing are all possible. Or stay put and practice basketball, skateboarding or beach volleyball at Hang Loose.

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CAPE TOWN 4/5

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KITE OPTIONS? Cape Town has a massive amount of variety. Bring the lot… WHICH WETSUIT? You’ll need a wetsuit – worth packing a 3/2 and a 4/3. BEER €1. TYPICAL DINNER Vegans take note… this is predominantly meat territory. And they cook it well out here. Get yourself to a Braai for the full experience. LATE NIGHT… Cape Town is a vibrant spot, and each night you can take your pick of pubs, clubs, comedy, concerts and some amazing food options. GETTING THERE Flights out of Europe will generally set you back around €1000, but shop around, especially if out of season.

THE LOWDOWN

For any ‘Northerners’ wishing to escape the chilly European winters (or summers for that matter), South Africa is a no-brainer, being a Southern Hemisphere destination. Cape Town is a pretty exciting place to shake off the winter blues, with sublime winds and almost as many beaches as there are parties each night… KITING SET UP

Cape Town: 15km north of Cape Town city center, Blouberg is your go-to spot when you land. It’s popular, and allows easy access to plenty of other great spots, such as Big Bay, Dolphin Beach and Kite Beach. With plenty of wave-action for the surf riders, Big Bay is also super popular with freestylers who make the most of the lulls between swells. Dolphin Beach is also a popular spot, and is great for beginners and intermediate riders. And no surprise as to what is most popular a little further on at Kite Beach… About an hour and a half outside of Blouberg, Shark’s Bay and Langebaan are great if you’re looking for some real flatwater sessions. And don’t let the name put you off… this is a really beautiful part of the Western Cape. Atlantic Cape: Neither wind nor pounding Antarctic swells are in short supply as you approach the Cape

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(the amazing Chapman’s Peak Drive en route is an adventure in itself). For picturesque scenery and solid lines, check out Witsands, plus fast and fun Scarborough – though not for the faint-of-heart or the inexperienced… Eastern Cape: Warmer waters and gentler swells on the Indian Ocean side. Head to Muizenberg for freestyle fun in mellow waves. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

If you want to rub shoulders with the pros and have the time of your life, then it’s got to be the main season in Cape Town. Any time from mid-November through to mid-February and you’ll be in business. The rest of the year? Well that can be epic too. But don’t tell anyone… NO WIND?

Should Mother Nature not play ball with your kiting plans, South Africa pretty much has it all …Wine tours, climb Table Mountain, MBK or just hang out in town. For water based alternatives, there is shark cage diving, seal snorkeling, freediving, surfing or SUP. Or take to the air for skydiving, paragliding, or smash out some airs in the Dirty Habits cable park…

WAV E C L I N I C S I N

CAPE TOWN

Our wave camps are for kitesurfers who want to learn or improve their wave riding skills. -For who; from zero to hero -Strapped or strapless; up to you -How long; from ‘just a downwinder’ to 5 day courses -What’s included; transport, latest RRD/Mystic gear and unlimited smiles and high fives -Optional; accommodation, video analysis, pro-clinics with Carl Ferreira & Steven Akkersdijk

More info; www.high-five.co.za

TURKS & CAICOS 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? 10 and 12, or 12 and 14, depending on body weight and skill levels! (Randy says: One large kite for light wind days and one general all around kite. We don’t get high winds often though check the forecast). WHICH WETSUIT? The sun here is no shrinking violet, so do dress for it. Long sleeve rashies, sun hat and plenty of sunscreen. In winter, a thin wettie top or maybe a shortie. BEER €4.30 | $5 | £3.80 TYPICAL DINNER Keep it local... Fish, lobster, conch, jerk chicken, rice and peas. There are many restaurants with great chefs here if you fancy something special. LATE NIGHT… Good weekend vibe spots are the Sand Bar, Danny Buoys, and Grace Bay’s Infinity. GETTING THERE: Fly to Providenciales (PLS) - super easy from anywhere in the US, and most of the major European airports too. Take a shuttle or taxi to your resort of choice, or book ahead for a rental car from the airport.

THE LOWDOWN

The Turks & Caicos Islands (TCIs) should definitely be high on your travel bucket list – this is a high end destination for kiters and non kiters alike. The island of Providenciales has become one of the most desired kiteboarding destinations on the planet, with two world-renowned beaches – Grace Bay and Long Bay – offering cross onshore winds, almost no crowds, and plenty of square miles of perfect, shallow, crystal clear waters. All this just over a one hour flight from Miami and easily accessible from all over the US. KITING SET UP

Long Bay is the big go-to spot, a three-mile white sand beach on the south side of Providenciales. This beach is made for kiteboarding, and the main kite schools

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kite@bigbluecollective.com

have all set up here, so it’s ideal for the learners amongst you. You’ll find shore or side onshore winds, warm shallow waters, and fairly flat water with little chop, no rocks or rip currents. Grace Bay is generally for the more advanced rider, with deep water launches, strong northerlies, and there are waves to be had on the reef or the sandbars. Two more nearby spots to check out depending on conditions are Leeward and Five Kays. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

Summer is from mid-June until the end of August, and these months can be some of the absolute best.

There are consistent trade winds almost all year except September, when there’s no wind at all... The winter season from late November through to April brings stronger winds, more surf… bigger weather, but bigger rewards! NO WIND?

It’s a water sports paradise with options to snorkel, SUP, kayak, fish, sail – and scuba diving here is about as good as it gets anywhere in the world. Alternatively jump on a horse, take an ecotour to see places you never probably would otherwise, or just wind down and recharge in the natural environment.

Villa Esencia Long Bay Beach Turks and Caicos Islands Caribean

gentle shallow warm safe steady great for learning & the whole family

www.villaesencia.com

GRENADINES THE LOWDOWN 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? If bringing two kites a 9 or 10 and a 12 meter are your best bet. The area and the steady, fairly gentle warm wind also makes it a perfect destination for foiling. WHICH WETSUIT? This is definitely a 'just board shorts/bikini's' sort of place. Lots of sunscreen and a rash guard are recommended. Other clothes and shoes: not really needed. BEER A beer is $3. A stronger cocktail drink might be cheaper than a beer. TYPICAL DINNER To go out might not be cheap especially as there are two islands with some of the most exclusive resorts on them. A lobster straight from the local grill on the beach however, will cost about $30. LATE NIGHTâ&#x20AC;Ś At the laid-back local rasta bars, you never know what you might find. They will likely stay open as long as you want, as long as you bring the partyâ&#x20AC;Ś

The Grenadines have become well known as a top kiteboarding destination, as they should be! In the last few years many pro riders have made this a stop in their training for the perfect freestyle conditions and beauty of the Caribbean. Steady winds always blow from the east in an eight month long kite season, with turquoise lagoons providing butter flat water. This out of the way place has the feel of an untouched paradise. KITING SET UP

The trade winds make this one of the most reliable places to kite. Island hopping is the thing to do here: the Grenadines consist of small islands grouped closely together. On the main island, Union, there are two kite schools. Hidden far away, the Grenadines are not easy to get to or get around in, so your best option is to join a dedicated kitesurfing boat, picking you up from Grenada and taking you around to all the spots. In a week or longer trip you pretty much live the dream, sailing with everything you need onboard your floating home. Uncharted Kitesurfing organizes trips on a 60 foot, very comfortable catamaran that you can join solo, with a few friends/family, or as a group. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

The season runs from mid-November until the end of July: in this period the trade winds are 'on'. They provide very steady wind, from the one direction, between 12-25 knots. December to March see stronger winds, often around 20-25 knots, while March to mid-May, and July see the more gentle winds, 12-20 knots. End of May and June provide stronger winds again that are pretty much guaranteed to blow day and night.

NO WIND?

If you have opted to do a kitesurf charter on Uncharted's catamarans, you will be sailing between the islands, everything on board, with your group or your new friends, and you can pretty much go where you want. The crew makes sure you will never forget this experience of floating around an untouched paradise in the Caribbean (disclaimer: you might make some drastic life changes after this trip). Diving straight off the boat, you can swim with turtles in a stunning Marine Park, put your foil or the wakeboard behind the dinghy, build a campfire, and of course drink rumpunch at the local bars.

JOIN THE KITE CREW Instagram: u_n_c_h_r_t_d_kitesurfing Web: www.unchartedkitesurfing.com

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HONDURAS 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? We suggest medium size (8-10m) and larger size (11-14m) kites. Check the forecast before you leave and you can always put in a bigger or smaller kite if required. WHICH WETSUIT? No need, the water is a balmy 24-28 degrees, so boardies/bikini plus sun protection. BEER Expect $2-3 for a local beer. TYPICAL DINNER Rice and beans with chicken or fish and plantains. LATE NIGHT… Local nights are chilled. Take a trip across the island to West Bay for a bigger night out and a great choice of restaurants and bars. We recommend visiting the West End on Saturday nights… GETTING THERE Conveniently the island of Roatán has great air connectivity, with year round direct flights from Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston and El Salvador. Plus seasonal flights and charters from other cities (including Montreal, Toronto, Newark, Milan and Madrid). Alternatively take the daily passenger ferry from the Honduras port city La Ceiba.

THE LOWDOWN

You’d be forgiven for never having heard of Roatán… nestled away in the far western part of the Caribbean, among the islands of Honduras. However for the secret spot seeker, this gem boasts eight months of perfect conditions thanks to the Caribbean trade winds, along with authentic charm and pure unspoilt nature. Lush green island hills reach down to white sand beaches and crystal clear warm waters surrounded by the world’s second largest reef system. KITING SET UP

The spot offers a huge kitezone, ideal for all levels and riding preferences – cruising, kickers, foil, wave and flat water. Sheltered from the open ocean by the reef, there’s shallow areas for beginners, and nice flat water for freestylers. Great for foiling too as the water drops off quickly to 2m depth with no rocky hazards. Join the boat excursions to explore the best spots and downwinders around. Everything is on site here. Accommodation is right on the beach at Camp Bay Lodge, and the kite school provides a beach and boat rescue service, offers beginner to advanced lessons and rents out top-quality gear (including CORE Boards & Kites, ProLimit Harnesses, NSP SUP boards, Slingshot foilboards). WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

From February to August the trade winds offer the most reliable conditions – usually 15-20 knots ESE in the morning, moving to ENE in afternoon and picking up in strength until sunset (20-30 knots). January till March the conditions can be variable

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and favorable for wave riding, with trade winds but also seasonal north storms mixing up. April and May is dry season and brings the strongest winds. From June till end August it’s warm with very consistent winds just like Cabarete. NO WIND?

The magnificent Mesoamerican Barrier Reef encloses the entire Island making Roatan a top scuba diving location with a spectacular underwater world. You can also enjoy the water by SUP or kayak, visit nearby islands and the Mangrove Canals, hike the hills or fly-fish. Camp Bay Lodge has a calm and mindful vibe, here you can take advantage of daily yoga, restorative massage, hang in the hammocks and wander barefoot along the pristine beach.

HONDURAS 5/5

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LESSONS / TRIPS / RENTALS TYPICAL DINNER Rice and beans with chicken or fish and plantains.

kitesurfroatan@gmail.com www.kitesurfroatan.com (504)3252-5891

SCUBADIVING / FLYFISHING / HIKING / SNORKELING STANDUPPADDLE / KITESURFING / YOGA / MASSAGE DE S T IN AT ION GUIDE

Roatán / Honduras (504) 3252-2227 or 8900-7243 campbaylodge@gmail.com

PANAMA 4/5

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KITE OPTIONS? Bigger kites are recommended – so depending on your weight, a 9, 12m or 11, 13m combo would be the best. WHICH WETSUIT? Booties strongly recommended for most riders and maybe a spring suit. Long sleeve rash guard or full body lycra suit for sun and wind exposure protection highly recommended. BEER Expect $2-3 for a local beer. TYPICAL DINNER Latin Caribbean inspired seafood dinners with plenty of beers and wine to wash things down! LATE NIGHT… Think beach bonfires, board games and cards, and music with the local indigenous people. GETTING THERE Fly to Panama City and explore Panama City for a night or two, then take the charter flight from Albrook Airport directly in/out of the island airstrip in San Blas. Avoid/ saves 3 hours of mountain road driving and gives you extra kite sessions on your first and last days... the catamaran is at anchor next to the island airstrip.

THE LOWDOWN

Lying off the north coast of Panama, the San Blas Islands number over 365 islands, 49 of which are inhabited. With tropical island scenery, warm water, no mass tourism and no kite crowds, this is a paradise trip destination. It can be best enjoyed cruising aboard an all inclusive kite adventure boat exploring the culture, along with remote and virgin kite spots – blue lagoons, flat water, miles of sand bars, chop, waves and downwinders with expert guiding and a water-safety minded professional licensed crew! KITING SET UP

Guiding kitesurfers for nine years now, the expert crew of 52ft Green Flash Catamaran will ensure you enjoy the best spots at the perfect time. With shallow water access you’ll cruise to kite playgrounds where no other boats venture! With beach, boat and tender launch options, the catamaran features an “Aft Kite Deck” which is ideal to pump up your kite and drift

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launch directly from the catamaran. You will be an expert on this launch before you go home! The three guest cabins have private bathrooms, and trips include drinks and snacks in addition to three healthy meals daily, with freshly caught seafood of course a speciality. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

Mid December to mid April is the best time to visit, with the strongest trade winds from January through March. Expect 12-25 knots daily, with some days gusting to 30 knots plus, and generally strongest early morning and late afternoon. NO WIND?

No worries if no wind! Expect to kite six or seven days per week. During the lighter winds at midday enjoy discovering deserted islands, snorkelling, SUP and spear fishing, with all equipment included. Or just kick back with a book on the sand or a hammock on-board.

HONDURAS 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS?

The Original Panama Kitesurfing Cruise We suggest medium size (8-10m) and larger size (11-14m) kites. Check the exploring the San Blas Islands World Class forecast before you leave and you can always put in a bigger or smaller kite Kitesurfing destination. Kite with just your if required. friends and experience remote tropical WHICH WETSUIT? island paradise and the Kuna Indigenous No need, the water is a balmy 24-28 degrees, so boardies/bikini plus sun culture. protection. Amazing fresh seafood daily! Cruise in style and comfort aboard a 52 BEER Expect $2-3 for a local beer. foot performance catamaran. December to TYPICAL AprilDINNER is Windy Season! Starting our 9th Rice and beans with chicken or fish and plantains. year guiding surf & kite specific adventures. LATE NIGHT… Local nights are chilled. Take a trip across the island to West Bay for a bigger night out and a great choice of restaurants and bars. We recommend visiingt the West End on Saturday nights… GETTING THERE Conveniently the island of Roatan has great air connectivity, with year round direct flights from Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston and El Salvador. Plus seasonal flights and charters from other cities (including Montreal, Toronto, Newark, Milan and Madrid). Alternatively take the daily passenger ferry from the Honduras port city La Ceiba.

PANAMA KITESURFING CRUISE DATES: 7 NIGHTS ALL INCLUSIVE Christmas: Dec. 21–28th, New Years: Dec. 29–Jan. 5th Jan. 12–19th, Jan. 26–Feb. 1st, Feb. 9–15th, Feb. 23–29th Mar. 8–14th, Mar. 22–28th, April 5–11th

BOOKINGS & INQUIRIES GREENFLASHCAPTAIN@GMAIL.COM WWW.GREENFLASHCAT.COM

KENYA 4/5

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KITE OPTIONS? 9 & 12. WHICH WETSUIT? Don’t be a fool. BEER €2.25 | $2.45 | £1.70 TYPICAL DINNER Mostly European cuisine in the coast beach resorts, and in all the hotels, but you can easily get a local meal of beans, chapatti, BBQ goat or beef (nyama choma) for under $2. LATE NIGHT… All the beach towns have a local beach bar where you can expect to find some like-minded travelers or residents. Night clubs are also open every night of the week. GETTING THERE In terms of international airport options, you have Mombasa on the coast or Nairobi inland (and then an internal flight).

WHY KENYA?

While the more southern African metropolis of Cape Town tends to grab the headlines, Kenya has plenty to offer in the kiting department but without the crowds. And – if you check a map – you will see that it is also closer to the equator, so that temperature dial is turned up a notch or two as well. As ‘longer haul’ kite destinations go it’s becoming ever more popular and it’s easy to see why. Aside from the plus of it being a ‘boardies/bikini’ destination, there is also an insane amount of coastline to explore, and a heap of unique experience to be had inland. RANDOM FACTOIDS:

– Kenya has 310 miles of prime white sanded kiteboarding perfection – There is a reef around a kilometer offshore which runs pretty much the whole length of the coast making for one of the biggest, longest and most alluring lagoons on the planet. – You need to be aware of the tides – they can have a pretty big range here and some of the lagoons will drain out at low tide leaving you with a bust fin or a potentially long walk home… THE SET UP

Constant trade winds, a choice of sandbars, many kilometers of powder white sand beaches and large summer swells all help to make Kenya a wonderful

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playground for kitesurfers of all levels. Award-winning beaches, world class game reserves and a ton of other activities and sights close by also ensure that it is an incredible all-round holiday destination. You can kite from pretty much any beach in Kenya, there is always lots of space and easy access to beaches all along the coast. All areas are uncongested, safe, and have more or less the same wind and wave conditions. The wind is always side-shore or side-onshore as the coastline runs the same direction as the wind. However, Kenya does not always provide good public facilities such as toilets, lifeguards or rescue and security, so it may be best to pick somewhere that is set up for kiting in case you need repairs, rescue, or just generally a good atmosphere and some company on the water. For this, the obvious places are Diani Beach, Watamu, Che Shale and Funzi which all provide facilities for kiters. THE SEASON

From December to March the prevailing wind is a N/NE consistent trade wind. Every day there is wind from 10am – 6pm (with 100% windy days from mid-December through to mid-February). The wind and waves are moderate and the water is less choppy and it is clear and warm. You can also dive and do SUP at this time of year, and there is very little chance of rain.

From June to September the prevailing wind is S/SE and is less consistent but stronger and more powerful. It usually kicks in around 8am and the waves and swell are bigger with a cooler water temp. The sea is also murkier as it’s agitated from all the wind and rough seas. It can rain, but usually only at night or early morning. From March to May there is a chance of wind, but it’s usually quite light and can be onshore. It is fun for landboarding or skimboard kiting on one of the bigger flatter beaches like Galu or Che Shale. From September to December the wind is at its lightest and generally onshore. The water is crystal clear, the weather is very pleasant and vistas are stunning. It is good for diving and SUP, and there can be some windy days so there is still a chance to kite. NO WIND?

Deep sea fishing: Best on the North coast near Che Shale. September to April. Lake Naivasha: A lovely wildlife area on a huge lake – lots of flamingo, hippo, birdlife, leopard, buffalo, waterbuck and zebra. Mombasa old town: Great shopping on the streets of the old town with a unique Arab/African blend of cultures. Nairobi: Feed giraffes at the giraffe rehab center in Karen, and adopt an orphan elephant at Daphne Sheldrick elephant orphanage. Both are reputable and responsible organizations.

TARIFA 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? Bring a 7 and a 9. But check the forecast as you could need a 5 or a 15m. WHICH WETSUIT? Shorty through the summer months, full neoprene in the winter. Spring and autumn a 3/2 and then throughout the winter a 4/3. BEER €3 or from €7 for a mojito. TYPICAL DINNER Tarifa is famous for its tapas and delicious fresh tuna. At around €3 per tapa it is great value and there is a huge choice of places to eat. THE LOWDOWN LATE NIGHT… This is a party town, so you are spoilt for nightlife options. Bars are generally open until 2am, and for those who want to go till dawn, Café Del Mar on the outskirts of town is open until 5am.

Tarifa is known as the Kite Mecca of Europe, and for good reason. With its 10km stretch of kite-perfect beach and perfect winds, you can kite all day before heading to the vibrant old town for tapas, cocktails and fun after dark…

many ‘chirinquitos’ along the sands where you can pit stop and fill your belly with fine foods. Locations such as the ION center and Explora Watersports have prime positions on this kitesurfing hub and can get you up and riding if it is your first time, or have you working on your handlepasses if you are a bit more advanced…

KITING SET UP

Tarifa’s main kiting area takes in Los Lances, Valdevaqueros and Punta Paloma. Along the whole stretch of 10km beach there are numerous kite schools and

p i c s by t rav e l p e o p l e 2 4

ION CLUB TARIFA C E N T E R D I R E C T LY AT T H E B E A C H I R E N TA L & L E S S O N S FOR ALL LEVELS I INTERNATIONAL TEAM I STORAGE SUP EXCURSIONS TO AFRIKA

KITESURF I WINDSURF I SURF I SUP I FOIL T +49 881 9254 960 c o m p a n y @ i o n - c l u b. d e

The winds in Tarifa are either Poniente which is lighter and more consistent, or Levante which is a hotter wind that can be gusty and strong and see

CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE SPORT

things get pretty nuclear. In high summer, the kiting is restricted from Los Lances to Valdavaqueros, and plenty of people means that the early birds (i.e. those who are up before midday!) will catch the most glorious and uncrowded part of the day. In winter, a lagoon appears during certain tides, increasing your range of kiteable spots, while out on the water, westerley swells can bring solid waves to Tarifa. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

The main season runs from mid-March through to November, but June to mid-September is the optimum time to hit Tarifa, with wind 90% of the time, and warm sunny weather. You can still have great conditions throughout the winter but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s less consistent and the rescue boat services stops working from mid-November. June is the prime month: precrowds, thermic days with consistent winds, plenty of space and warm, warm weather. NO WIND?

If there is no wind you can of course go party in Tarifa! It is also a great mountain bike area so hire bikes for the day and explore, go whale watching, SUP, ride horses, go shopping or relax and stretch with yoga. Alternatively head to the cable park in Marbella, or catch some winter waves when the swell is in.

ESSAOUIRA 4/5

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KITE OPTIONS? We’d say a 7 and a 9. WHICH WETSUIT? The water is cold so you need to have a wetsuit, a 3/2 for March – October and then a 4/3 through the winter. BEER The local Casablanca beer is around €4 a bottle, or buy from the supermarket for a lot cheaper. TYPICAL DINNER €15 will buy you a delicious home cooked Moroccan meal with a glass of wine. LATE NIGHT… Taros is the most popular night-time spot with live music and roof top bar, plus Beach & Friends is a great spot for a beach party. GETTING THERE Fly direct to Essaouira from London Stansted, Paris or Lyon in just under 4 hours, or alternatively fly direct to Marrakech from most airports. Explora offer airport transfers from Essaouira, Marrakech or Agadir Airport.

THE LOWDOWN

Known as the windy city of Africa, Essaouira’s wide endless beach offers plenty of space and freedom on the water. As long as you don’t mind sharing the beach with the odd camel or two it is a great place to head for some sunshine and kiting. Essaouira is also becoming famous as a great spot for family holidays as there is so much else to do as well as kite, you can keep your whole family happy while you are on the water. KITING SET UP

Essaouira is a huge bay with side on wind predominantly blowing North Easterly thoughout the year, in the winter however the wind can switch some of the time to be South Westerly. Explora Watersports is located right on the beach at the optimum spot for kiting. The shape of the bay makes learning to kite very safe due to the wind direction, the bottom is sandy and there are no hazards. There are zones marked for kiting and a clear teaching area. Explora also has a rescue boat if required. The wind tends to

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blow all day with it getting stronger in the afternoons. There are a variety of spots, from flat water through to waves. WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

Pretty much an all year round spot, Essaouira’s main windy season runs from March through to the end of November, with the peak time being June to mid-September. Throughout the winter you can still get windy days but it is not as consistent. The swell also starts hitting the coast from October through to March so if you want to master the waves for a bit of strapless riding Essaouira is a good winter destination as well. NO WIND?

If you are unlucky and have a few days without wind, then you can surf, horse ride, camel ride, mountain bike, quad bike, take some yoga sessions, have a hammam or explore the old medina and harbor soaking up the atmosphere. So a few options!

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TURKEY 5/5

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KITE OPTIONS? Take a 9 and a 13 to cover all bases. WHICH WETSUIT? During the main season, just bring some lycra and flip flops! But if you’re heading here early or late in the season, bring a short wetty. BEER €3 a pint. TYPICAL DINNER A typical dinner can range from 3 to 5 Euros, to 15 Euros in the nice restaurants in the Urla Marina. LATE NIGHT… The spot bar is open every night until midnight, and once or twice a week Urla Surf House make a real evening of it, with a range of live music, BBQs and events. For the party animals, Alacati and its famous night life is just a 35 minute taxi drive away!

THE LOWDOWN

WHEN IS BEST TO GO?

The charming Turkish coastal town of Urla is not only amazing for kiting – it’s in the middle of one of the most beautiful areas of Turkey, and is also very easy to reach. This is a magic place – combining a world class spot, a huge, shallow lagoon, lots of flatwater options, a kitesurf wakepark and lots to do in the surrounding area too.

June, July and August are the best months to hit Urla. Every morning throughout this time there is a thermal effect that brings the winds, and then in the afternoon the ‘Meltemi’ wind takes over. There is also wind in April, May and September, it’s just not quite as reliable.

KITING SET UP

Plenty of activities other than kiting are possible either directly on the spot or close by. Located overlooking the kitesurf spot, there’s lots going on at Urla Surf House - everything you need to make your stay fun and easy… chill in the garden next to the pool, play pingpong, skate, SUP, slackline, hit up the hot springs, or just enjoy some food and prop up the bar. Nearby, you can visit vineyards, play some golf, ride horses, dive, visit the Izmir bazaar or the Ephesus ruins, cruise the Urla fishing marina (with its amazing restaurants), as well as take your pick from plenty of beautiful Aegean beaches within easy reach…

NO WIND?

The wind at Urla is quite steady, between 15 and 25 knots, and there’s a big, safe beginner’s area, separate from the freeride area. The spot is big, at about two kilometers long, with flat waters the whole length, side-shore winds, and shallow waters. It’s super safe, with no underwater obstacles. Right on the spot is the Urla Surf House, which is your complete kite center, rental and storage provider, hotel, restaurant and bar, all in one. A little upwind is the ‘slider park’ a kiteboarding specific wake park for some extra fun! Upwind, there’s the only free kite park in Europe!

EASYRIDERS

PROVIDER

W W W.E A SY RID ERS.C O M

CAN YOU SUMMARIZE WHAT YOU DO? We are a kitesurf and SUP center in the UK. We have a beautiful teaching area in Poole harbor giving perfect flat water for kiting at all levels and amazing SUP tours. We teach all levels from beginner to expert including foiling, racing and instructor training. We do a bunch of clinics each year to teach and coach kitesurfing and SUP worldwide. Our courses are geared towards all levels: beginner, intermediate, expert and instructor levels.

Adventure and a foiling clinic. Then back for a whole 36 hours before our Caribbean program starts for another seven weeks until the beginning of Feb. WHY SHOULD OUR READERS CHOOSE TO SPEND THEIR HARD EARNED MONEY WITH YOU?! We’re the best at what we do… We love doing it… And all our customers love coming back!

WHERE ARE YOU BASED AND WHEN WERE YOU ESTABLISHED? We have been going since 2004 and we are based at Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset. We have taught on every continent and run more coaching holidays than any other UK business. This year is our 15th consecutive year to Brazil. We have added a couple of foiling clinics this year which are fab. WHERE ARE MOST OF YOUR CLIENTS FROM? UK and Europe, USA and Canada. HOW LONG HAVE YOU AND YOUR TEAM BEEN KITING? As a team we have over 100 years’ experience! Head honcho Andy Gratwick has been kiting since 1998. WHAT ARE YOU DOING THAT MAKES YOU SPECIAL COMPARED TO OTHER KITING BUSINESSES? Andy has worked within kitesurfing for 20 years. He went on the first instructor course, then set up the first school in Poole. We were first to run clinics and the first to all our destinations where we have great setups and know the locations like a second home. We have more experience than anyone else, we care about all our clients who are all our friends, and we love what we do, so that makes it pretty easy! CAN YOU TALK US THROUGH YOUR MOST RECENT TRIP? We have just come back from back-to-back clinics on the west coast of Ireland, followed by running and competing in the British kite wave championships. 13 days of 14 were windy. We had team members in the podium which was great to see, and I need to stop breaking ribs! WHAT DO YOU HAVE LINED UP FOR THE NEXT FEW MONTHS? We’re off to Brazil this autumn for three back-to-back clinics, The Original, The

COME FLY WITH US AND NEVER LOOK BACK.

Grenadines, Barbados, Brazil, Peru, Ireland, Lanzarote and more. The best coaching, the best conditions, the best time. 01202 744055 | www.easy-riders.co.uk | making watersports easy

KITESURF HOLIDAYS

PROVIDER

W W W.KIT ESURF H O LO DAY S.C O M

CAN YOU SUMMARIZE WHAT YOU DO? Kitesurf Holidays is the market leading online platform for booking kite trips. It enables kitesurfers to easily plan their next dream holiday through matching up accommodation options in classic kitesurfing destinations with kite schools, equipment rental and kitesurf guiding. So you can basically get everything set up for your next trip. WHO IS BEHIND THE PROJECT AND WHY DID YOU THINK THERE WAS A MARKET FOR IT? We are a group of passionate kitesurfers from a variety of backgrounds. Over the course of our many trips away we became frustrated with trying to find suitable accommodation in a destination and to then try to find somewhere to hire equipment or to take a lesson. Often your first morning in a new spot would be spent hunting around. With kitesurfholidays.com not only do you have fantastic ‘kite friendly’ accommodation options but you can also easily find the perfect school or place to rent your equipment. With a sport like kitesurfing where a lot of people don’t want the hassle of traveling with all of their kit this makes the platform particularly relevant. SO ANYONE CAN LIST WITH YOU? That’s right. Accommodation providers are able to sign up to the platform in 20-25 minutes and can add photos as well as full details of room types, their facilities as well as details of local

beaches, towns and bars. If they provide lessons or equipment hire then they are also able to set these up as packages and become a one-stop-shop for booking a kitesurf holiday. If they only provide accommodation then they will automatically become linked with local kite schools to ensure that kitesurfers who book accommodation can then easily find lessons or equipment hire. Accommodation providers then have the option to have either ‘request’ or ‘live’ booking. Registration is similar for Kite Schools who can easily list details of their kitesurf courses and their equipment hire options. AND FOR PEOPLE LOOKING FOR A HOLIDAY? For customers, the kitesurfholidays.com site is clean, easy to navigate, and has plenty of options in all of the main kitesurfing hubs internationally, places like Cape Town, Tarifa and Greece. You pay a deposit to lock in your trip and then pay the balance either a few weeks before you travel or on arrival. It’s kind of like AirBnB for kiting, but you can arrange your whole trip with lessons and hire if you require. SO WHERE CAN WE GO?! We currently have multiple options in over fifteen kiting hubs all over the planet. And we are growing all the time! If you are looking for a trip in a well-regarded kitesurfing destination then kitesurfholidays.com should be your first stop!

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PLANET KITESURF

PROVIDER

W W W.PL A NE T KIT ESURF H O LIDAY S.C O M

WHO ARE PLANET KITESURF HOLIDAYS? As the UK’s leading kitesurfing holiday travel specialist, Planet Kitesurf Holidays is made up of a team of enthusiastic and well-travelled kitesurfers that are on hand to assist you in planning the kitesurf holiday of your dreams. Through their years of kitesurfing and experiencing the world’s top destinations, the team at Planet Kitesurf Holidays are able to offer expert, impartial advice on where and when to go according to your skill level, needs and budget. They also will recommend the very best hotels and centers. From the remote reaches of Mozambique to the sunny shores of Sardinia, they have you covered. The team at Planet not only understand the needs of the individual kitesurfer, but also that of families and non-kiting partners, as most of the staff have little ones of their own. The team understands the needs of their clients and are able to draw on their own experiences to arrange a holiday that will be perfect for you. MORE ABOUT THE COMPANY… Planet Kitesurf is part of a larger water sports travel holiday specialist, Planet Travel Ltd, which also offers Windsurf Holidays (Planet Windsurf) and Diving Holidays (Planet Dive). In 2000 Planet launched its dedicated kitesurf travel program – the first UK travel company to do so! Planet is based out of waterfront offices on the south coast of the UK, just a stone’s throw away from one of the best kitesurf beaches in the area and in 2016 Planet opened a second office in Cape Town, one of the best kitesurfing locations on the Planet. They are ATOL & TTA (Travel Trust Association) bonded, providing an extremely high level of financial and holiday protection to their customers. Planet Travel is unique in that they combine a highly professional tour operation service, combined with unsurpassed first-hand kitesurf resort knowledge. This is backed up by the latest travel technology enabling immediate best price holiday quotations either via their innovative website, or over the phone.

WHERE ARE MOST OF YOUR CLIENTS FROM AND WHERE ARE THEY GOING? For almost two decades Planet have been at the very forefront of kitesurf travel, and are proud to currently be one of the largest and most respected kitesurf tour operators in the world. When recommending a kitesurfing destination to clients, the team at Planet Kitesurf Holidays always takes into account the individual’s specific needs, but they do have a few destinations that really stand out from the crowd. Le Morne in Mauritius is an all-time favorite and Planet is able to offer exclusive rates at the gorgeous St Regis Resort with hosts of special offers you won’t find elsewhere. Another favorite of theirs and a great spot for those who don’t want to travel too far is FeelViana in Portugal. FeelViana is a sports resort set in quiet corner of Portugal. It offers kitesurfers a prime location on a fantastic beach with conditions to suit any level. Planet’s other top destinations for this year, offering great value for money and reliable wind conditions, include Dakhla in Morocco, Sal and Boa Vista in Cape Verde, Cape Town and Langebaan in South Africa, Gostoso in Brazil and Soma Bay in Egypt. WHAT ARE YOU DOING THAT MAKES YOU SPECIAL COMPARED TO OTHER KITING BUSINESSES? Having such a passion for the sport means that the team at Planet Kitesurf really does understand their clients’ holiday aspirations. As kitesurfers themselves, they are also always on the lookout for new and exciting destinations to add to their offering. All of this makes Planet Kitesurf Holidays so much more than just a kitesurf travel company! We believe that the holiday experience can be made so much more memorable and enjoyable by combining world class kitesurfing with the rich cultural experiences that the country may have to offer. A booking with Planet will turn your kitesurf vacation into a trip of a lifetime.

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HONDURAS ION CLUB

PROVIDER

W W W.IO N - CLUB.NE T

CAN YOU SUMMARIZE WHAT YOU DO? Windsurfing, kitesurfing, kitefoiling, surfing, stand-up-paddling and mountain biking are the sources of our total commitment! The extraordinary and inspiring places where our ION CLUB centers are located promise to be the backdrop for the most exciting days of your year. Our professional and specialized skills motivate and bring our guests to the next level. These qualities are underpinned by the fact that we use only the very latest equipment and only operate at the very best spots on the planet… Our guests can always find the latest equipment for rental and qualified instructors for lessons – no matter your level: beginner, intermediate or advanced. AND CAN YOU ARRANGE TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION AS WELL? Yes, Travel People, our in-house travel agency can arrange the full package for you. Their service includes: flights from all destinations, accommodation, transfers, rental car and travel service, as well as the special service of kitesurf luggage reservation for the flights and the destination transfers. So you don’t have to worry about anything… WHERE ARE YOU BASED AND WHEN WERE YOU ESTABLISHED? We were established in 1985. We have a base in Germany and then we have centers in Fuerteventura, Tarifa, Golf de Roses, Safaga, Mauritius, Cabarete, Cape Verde, Essaouira, Dakhla, Karpathos and Alacati.

also have a lot of clients from Austria, Eastern Europe and Russia. At ION CLUB you will meet like-minded people from all over the world and our company has always given top priority to customer orientation, team spirit, innovation and professionalism. HOW LONG HAVE YOU AND YOUR TEAM BEEN RUNNING KITE HOLIDAYS? Our company was one of the first to offer kitesurfing as an option back in 2001. WHAT ARE YOU DOING THAT MAKES YOU SPECIAL COMPARED TO OTHER KITING BUSINESSES? The story of ION CLUB is about people who have turned their passion for windsurfing and kitesurfing into a career. So we trust our international team who make sure that our guests can live every second of every kind of their holiday – no matter whether on the land or on the water. Their enthusiasm is the guarantee that you get the moments you are searching for. WHY SHOULD OUR READERS CHOOSE TO SPEND THEIR HARD EARNED MONEY WITH YOU? They can share their thrilling sports’ sessions with other like-minded people at ION CLUB who, like they, travel to us from all over the world. There is no limit to magic on the water and the swells to ride, so make ION CLUB your home of surfing elements!

WHERE ARE MOST OF YOUR CLIENTS FROM? Most of our clients come from Germany, France, England, Spain and Switzerland. However, we

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