HOLD ON TO YOUR HATS – IT’S TIME TO KITELOOP!
(NOTE: Watch the free video that accompanies this feature in issue #110 at magazine.kiteworldmag.com)
It doesn’t matter what beach you go to in the world, throwing a respectable kiteloop (and eventually, megaloop) will lead to instant credibility. To avoid being the over-excited rider that bombs out right near the shoreline, taking out swimmers and other water users in the process, follow this guide.
KEY POINTS TO BEAR IN MIND FROM THE BEGINNING:
- It is vital that you have a good, consistently landed, straight boost technique, with a minimum jump height of ten metres. Looping the kite will generate a lot more energy than a straight jump, so your reactions and landing skills must already be on point.
- Timing is extremely important. No matter what level you’re at, looping too early can often be the cause of big crashes. The safest way is to loop after the apex of your jump and only when you’re comfortable should you build yourself up to looping while you’re still on the way up.
- It’s time to get an impact vest. It really does help!
- When landing from a kite loop, you should prepare to ride downwind for longer than
