Ridin' the Wind: Kitesurfing with Surf Style

Riding the Wind: A Deep Dive into Surf Style Kitesurf Boards

The fusion of surfing and kiting has birthed an exhilarating sport: kitesurfing. And within this dynamic world, the "surf style" board reigns supreme for those seeking a taste of pure wave riding bliss. Forget bulky freestyle boards; these sleek, maneuverable crafts are designed to dance on the water's surface with grace and agility, mimicking the feel of your favorite surfboard.

But what exactly sets a surf style kitesurf board apart?

Built for Wave Riding: Unlike their freestyle counterparts, surf style boards prioritize speed and maneuverability in choppy conditions. They feature a shorter length (around 5 to 6 feet), narrower width, and a distinctive rocker profile – that upward curve along the board's length – designed to slice through waves effortlessly.

The Thrill of a Clean Line: The smaller size allows for tighter turns, quick transitions, and exhilarating rail-to-rail maneuvers, just like you'd experience on a surfboard. Imagine carving down a wave face, feeling the spray against your face, and executing a smooth cutback – pure adrenaline rush!

Choosing Your Weapon:

Selecting the perfect surf style board depends on your individual needs and riding style:

• Wave Size: For smaller waves, opt for a board with a flatter rocker and less volume (think 5'6" to 5'10"). In larger swells, you'll want more volume (around 6 feet) and a deeper rocker for stability and paddle power.
• Skill Level: Beginners can benefit from boards with wider outlines and more volume for increased buoyancy and stability. As your skills progress, consider narrower boards for enhanced responsiveness and agility.

Essential Features to Look For:

• Fin Set-up: Most surf style kitesurf boards feature a three-fin set-up (thruster) for optimal maneuverability and control.
• Rails: A combination of soft rails in the middle and hard rails towards the edges allows for smooth rail engagement and responsive turning.
• Materials: High-quality construction materials like epoxy, carbon fiber, or fiberglass ensure durability and lightness.

Beyond the Gear:

Mastering the art of wave riding with a surf style kitesurf board requires practice and patience.

• Start in small waves and gradually progress to bigger swells as your skills improve.
• Focus on maintaining a good stance and weight distribution for optimal balance and control.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different maneuvers and find what works best for you.

With the right board, dedication, and a dash of adventurous spirit, you can unlock a world of exhilarating wave riding experiences unlike anything else. So, grab your gear, embrace the wind, and ride the waves like a true kitesurfing surfer!

Riding the Wind: A Deep Dive into Surf Style Kitesurf Boards (continued)

The essence of surf style kitesurfing isn't just about the gear; it's about capturing that primal connection between surfer and wave amplified by the power of the wind. Imagine this: You're riding a swell off the coast of Portugal, standing on your custom-made 5’10” surfstyle board crafted from lightweight epoxy with a responsive thruster fin set-up. The sun is warm on your skin, salty spray kisses your face, and the wind whips through your hair as you carve down the wave face. Suddenly, the lip of the wave curls overhead, a moment suspended in time before you execute a smooth cutback, feeling the board rail against the water, and emerge back onto the face with exhilarating speed.

This isn't just a fantasy; it’s the reality for countless kitesurfers around the world who have embraced the surf style approach.

Take Marcilio Browne, a Brazilian pro known as "the best wave rider in the world". Browne often ditches his freestyle gear to shred waves on custom-shaped surfstyle boards, showcasing incredible rail work and aerial maneuvers. He’s even been spotted riding massive waves with only his board and harness, proving the incredible agility these boards offer.

Or consider Annabel van der Meer, a Dutch kitesurfing prodigy who seamlessly blends her background in surfing with the thrill of kiting. Van der Meer utilizes surf style boards to carve up beach breaks and powerful reefs worldwide, showcasing unmatched balance and control as she navigates challenging wave conditions. Her dedication to perfecting her "surf style" has earned her recognition as one of the most innovative and inspiring kitesurfers on the circuit.

These examples highlight the growing popularity and influence of surf style kitesurfing within the broader kitesurfing community.

Choosing Your Ride:

When selecting a surf style board, consider these factors:

• Wave Size: For smaller waves (waist high to overhead), opt for boards with a flatter rocker, less volume (around 5'6" to 5’10”), and a wider outline for stability. In larger swells (overhead and beyond), choose boards with more volume (around 6 feet) and a deeper rocker for paddling power and wave stability.
• Skill Level: Beginners should look for boards with wider outlines, more volume, and softer rails for increased buoyancy and stability. As you progress, narrow boards with harder rails and sharper rockers offer enhanced responsiveness and maneuverability.

Popular Surf Style Board Brands:

• Cabrinha: Known for their high-performance surf style boards designed for both experienced riders and those looking to transition from surfing to kitesurfing.
• Naish: Offers a wide range of surf style boards catering to various skill levels and wave conditions, incorporating innovative technologies for superior performance and durability.
• Ozone: Renowned for their lightweight construction and responsive designs, Ozone's surf style boards are favored by experienced riders seeking high-performance wave riding capabilities.

The world of surf style kitesurfing is a constantly evolving landscape, with new technology and innovations pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on these exhilarating boards. So, whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking to add another dimension to your sport or a kitesurfer eager to explore the realm of wave riding, the surf style board offers an unforgettable journey into a world where wind and water collide in perfect harmony.