When looking at a kitesurfers on the water, there are so many different kite boards in a lot of different shapes and sizes. We could take about different kite boards here all day, so let’s just stick to the basics for now.
Twintips
The most commonly found kite boards are called Twintips. A Twintip is a kiteboard that can move in both directions without changing feet. They have a symmetrical structure, usually have “straps” (ergonomically shaped bindings or foot loops that offer good grip on the board) and fins on the bottom.
For the average size kiter at 75kg Twintips are chosen in a size range from about 136cm to 140cm. Choosing the ride size doesn’t just depend on the size of the rider but also on the shape of the board and the style of riding.
Surfboards
At the first glance kite surfboards look like common short boards for surfing. Surfboards come from classic surf shapes to the most modern and progressive shapes now. A kitesurfer using a surfboard has probably used a Twintip before progressing onto a surfboard. Of course a kite surfboard is most fun to use in the waves, it can also be used on flat water.
Foil boards
These boards look a lot different to your usual kite boards. To the bottom of the board which looks more like a surfboard than a Twintip you can see a mast connected with two wings. When riding a foil board, the board itself is above the water and only the wings are actually in contact with the water. This almost feels like flying and some kiters also call it a ‘magic carpet’ ride.
This was just to cover the very basics and there is a LOT more to talk about when it comes to kite boards.
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