Post 2001 kites last quite long. My most used old kite is a 7M 2004 SS Fuel (I love c-kites). Also have a 2002 flysurver psycho1 that I use for light winds. My average kite is probably 2008. Most 2005 kites were just so good, I never saw the need to go newer, especially since c-kites were no longer ...

Would you say it is harder to SUK than light wind TT? The main difference between SUK and light wind TT is you can go upwind much earlier. Deep water start is much harder on a SUK than a TT. When the winds shut down, I much prefer the paddle back with the volume of a SUP to a TT. If you want more f...

I like c-kites too, nothing wrong with them (I still actively fly them: pulleybar, frickenloop, etc). Get another c-kite (2005 or newer) if you can find one. Sizes 7M and 9M are fun. If you still have your Wainman, make sure you fly them on the single bridle setting (front pigtail closest to tailing...

I like to pack a SUP for the super light days. If the winds never hold steady over 5 mph, than I just stand up paddleboard before the winds pick up (as opposed to getting skunked). Sure hydrofoils start early, but I find that a SUP with kite I can start just as early. I see the benefit of the SUP as...

I like to keep the center chord length about the same for my quiver of kites. To make the kite bigger or smaller, adjust the aspect ratio. For small kites, I go a larger aspect ratio. For large kites, a high aspect ratio. If you try to keep the aspect ratio fixed for a quiver of kites, you will find...

IMO pulleys on kites are a comprimise. Why? A kite without a pulley on the leading edge bridle may not be able to do a traditional water relaunch. A kite without a pulley on the steering lines, may not be able to do a reverse relaunch. I prefer kites without pulleys, especially on the leading edge, ...

My two cents: 1) The bar is too long (over sheeted). If you sheet in and the behavior goes away that would confirm that the kite is oversheeted. In that case, find a smaller bar for your 8M/6M. For e.x. 40-45 cm. 2) Pump the kite up rock hard. Most SLE kites are pretty flat, so a lot of force can be...

I have the older gath convertable. I liked it when I first got it, mainly for the spf protection. As the visor aged, I could no longer ride full faced due to scratches on the lense, and would ride with it like a visor. For reference, I have used the Protec Ace Wake. Sizing is comparable. For me, if ...

Is the position of kneeling doable with a prosthetic limb? I would think that a large board would be a nice stable platform. I would think a SUP, longboard, Egg, or fish would be where I would start. Light winds and a floaty board make for some peaceful sessions. Switch to a SUP paddle if the winds ...

Switch to neoprene socks, then wear street shoes over them (or wake shoes if you can afford them). The neoprene socks are for warmth and prevent your feet from getting blisters. I still wear out the neoprene socks every year, but not having blisters is worth it. Avoid leather shoes. Look for shoes t...