So Hello,

I am a total beginner so don't lol too hard.

Last Spring - Some buddies of mine on Simcoe started trying this crazy sport so I said, sure why not, I might as well give it a shot.

Last June - Got a 3m trainer had some fun with that then I just said %^&* it and went out, bought a new kite, board, harness before I had even had a water session. I know I know ... I get the logic for trying the sport first and getting used gear. I just wanted my own stuff to use whenever I wanted, and not have to look around used classifieds for months.

Last Month - I took a trip to TCI for a week and dragged all my gear with me, so I could give it a shot. I took a lesson with KiteProvo for a day and after that was out on my own gear for the remainder of the week ... I am hooked ... like a ... crackhead ... is to ... crack

I live in southern Ontario and I am trying to figure out good places to learn?

I am 180lbs, ride a 145x41 twin coupled with a 12m 2012 LF Envy.

-I know I need a wetsuit for the spring and fall for sure, can anyone make recommendations on good brands and models for cooler water? NPX seems well made.

- Also looking for a good brain bucket ... anyone got recommendations?

- Can I use my LF bar on other manufactures kites? Is it worth doing to save a few hundred bucks?

Anyway leave it at that for now.

Here is a short of my first days on a kiteboard... and my son but whatever.

cheers.

Wetsuits are awesome for the price these days, get yourself a good 4/3 full suit and build from there.

Helmets... I use a shred ready paddling helmet, but u can go bern, protec, whatever but look at paddling or wake shops.

Unless you go with another liquid force kite for your 9m I would get it with its own bar and lines. Easier resale, less tweaking, gives you a backup, better all round.

Welcome to the addiction, be safe, have fun, and don't jeopardize access.

You don't really need a helmet, kiteboarding is pretty safe despite what the safety freaks tell you. Only reason I have one is to mount a gopro when I want to kook out.

I wouldn't mix bars, sure you can do it with minor tweaks to get everything to fly right but different sized kites use different sized bars, and the line lengths are always slightly different because of where the Y splits, safety systems can be different... just less of a hassle imo unless you use all one brand (same bar for 7m and 9m envy for example, different bar for 12m).

Also for the wetsuit, I'd definitely advise something kite specific like npx or hyperflex. I have a really nice 3/2 that I wear in winter here, and whenever I don't ride boots I end up with the balloon legs that I'm sure everyone is familiar with. Some brands/models have straps on the bottom to keep water out of there, or are just designed better so this doesn't happen

haha yea the helmet is mainly for something to put the gopro on. Tho I am sure its a good idea as I am still starting out. Thanks.

Got another question. Line extensions ... I believe the 12m Envy has 23m lines ... I was told extensions can help with the lighter winds for the longer power stroke.

I was looking around and some say to go over 30m (overall 32-35m) and some say around 27-28m is a good sweet spot. Will adding 5-7m of line really make that much of a difference?

I had a few days in the 11-14 knts that I really struggled to do anything. I just figured the 12m was just too small and gave up. Would longer lines have helped out or am I just pushing the limits of the kites low end at this point?

I am looking to get another kite for the low wind days but I am trying to find ways to make the most out of what I got atm.

cheers.

Line extentions do make a significant difference. 5-7m max. There is a delay to turning response so everything feels pretty slow and drawn out, and it takes a bit more planning ahead for jumpst and transitions, but the air is lofty and long.

Was a time we were all on 27-30m lines. Now the norm is somewhere around 23-24m.

Its all about finding what kind of handling you like or are willing to put up with for that extra bit of low end workability. Play around with it for a while. Its worth your time and a great learning experience.

Cheap too.

welcome.... we're all hooked, and for good reason. I'd look at Mitchell's Bay which is fairly close to you. GOod crew, good water and great for learning/progressing. Another spot is Oliphant. Really shallow, ample rig and launch area. All sites have some rules, so ask questions before you set up. It will help you and us in the long run.

I ride a Hyperflex Amp-K 4/3 and it's so good I can ride in slush and not be cold. Get boots, goooood gloves and a hoodie and you're ready to rock... well, almost now! Ice is off at Mitchells, but water it still pretty frigid. BE REALLY SAFE IN COLD WATER. Always have an exit plan and ride with other peeps who are aware of your skill level. Things happen fast in cold water. The way the weather is though, things should warm up quick. If you want some more local info, feel free to drop me a line:
brian.ready@rogers.com
www.kite-culture.com

take care