For both novice and seasoned kitesurfers, knowing how to safely self-land is important. While some seasoned riders may feel that they’ve mastered the art of self-landing, it’s always beneficial to revisit fundamental techniques. This particular guide draws inspiration from one of Kitesurfing Magazine’s favorite self-landing instructional videos. Even for the seasoned kitesurfer, it serves as an invaluable refresher.
1. Self Land Using Kite Self Rescue
The Safest Method
- Procedure:
- Eject the chicken loop.
- The kite flags out on a single line.
- Move up this safety line to the bar.
- Secure the safety line on one end of the bar.
- Wrap all the lines in figures of 8 until you reach the kite.
- Pros: This method is notably the safest.
- Cons: It’s time-consuming and may cause wear on your equipment.
2. Quicker Self Rescue for Mild Conditions – Single Line Walk
- Procedure:
- Use the quick release to flag out the kite on a single line.
- Ensure the kite is flagged out.
- Pull in your kite using the safety line.
- Identify the safety line beyond the bar (it’s the tense line).
- Pros: It’s quicker than the self-rescue method.
- Cons: Riskier. Can damage hands or cause the kite to drift and harm others.
Here is a link to a great in-depth video Self Landing that add a key point of walking upwind of your kite. Also includes some great additional line-management techniques after self landing.
3. Anchored Self Landing
- Procedure:
- Secure a leash to a heavy object.
- Stand downwind and land the kite.
- Ensure the kite is stable.
- Move the chicken loop from your harness to the leash’s hook.
- Pros: Prevents the kite from dragging on the ground.
- Cons: In gusty winds, the kite can become airborne and pose danger.
4. Overfly & Collapse Method
- Procedure:
- Remove the chicken stick.
- Lower the kite.
- Just before landing, push the bar out and pull the center lines.
- Pull the center lines again to topple the kite.
- Remove the chicken loop.
- Pros: Effective in light wind.
- Cons: Only for experienced kiters. Risky in stronger winds.
5. Double Line Walk Self Land
Highly Risky and Not Recommended
- Procedure:
- Land the kite.
- Unhook and walk along the center lines, keeping the kite on its side.
- Pros: None highlighted.
- Cons: Extremely risky. Can cause injury or damage.
In Summary:
While each method has its merits, it’s clear that the self-rescue method reigns supreme in safety. On the other hand, the line walk self-land is fraught with risks and should be approached with caution, if at all. Knowing your own limits is essential. It’s paramount to ensure safety, preserve equipment, and uphold the reputation of kitesurfing within the broader community.
Stay safe, and enjoy the winds!
