kiteboarding and kitesurfing lessons in Bracklesham Bay, Chichester, West Sussex

Don’t get me wrong – Kitesurfing and Kiteboarding is still insanely popular around the globe, but it’s undeniable. Kiters have way more chance of having an accident compared to wing foiling and windsurfing.

Also bear in mind that you will be more limited in places you can kite, compared to places where you can wing or windsurf.

Can kiteboarding be safer

1. Training and Experience:

   • Professional Lessons: You absolutely need to get lessons and that’s going to take time and a big investment. Beginners should never attempt to kiteboard without proper instruction. This means you’ll be taking quite a few lesson before you should even consider your own kit.
   • Progressive Learning: Progressing slowly and mastering basics before attempting more advanced manoeuvers reduces risk.

2. Equipment:

   • Quality Kit: If you’re going to buy kit, make sure it is modern as the safety features are always being improved. Don’t buy old stuff.

3. Weather:

   • Wind: Ideal wind conditions are steady and moderate. Avoid extreme winds, gusty conditions offshore winds and storms.
   • Water: Flat water is much safer for beginners. Waves and strong currents increase risk as do harbour mouths and busy waterways.

4. Location:

   • Designated Areas: Kiteboarding in designated areas with rescue services nearby is safer. Many venues don’t allow kiting especially in harbours.
   • Obstacles: Avoid areas with obstacles like rocks, piers, or other watercraft. Also consider the amount of beach you have and where people are sitting around you.

5. Physical Condition:

   • Fitness: Being in good physical condition helps manage the physical demands of the sport and reduces the risk of injury.
   • Swimming: You want to be a good swimmer and it is a good idea to test yourself occasionally with some open water swimming.

6. Being aware:

   • Local Knowledge: Make sure you understand the area, it’s local conditions, hazards and the rules.
   • Safety: Definitely wear a helmet, impact vest, and wetsuit.

Common Risks and possible solutions

1. Accidents and Injuries:

   • Mitigation: Wear protective gear, practice self-rescue techniques, and avoid crowded or obstacle-filled areas.

2. Equipment Failure:

   • Mitigation: Regularly inspect and maintain gear, understand how to use the safety release, and carry a knife to cut lines if necessary.

3. Weather:

   • Mitigation: Keep an eye on the weather using multiple apps for wind, tides, currents and tidal flows. You should also be aware of the localised effects.

4. Drowning:

   • Mitigation: Wear a buoyancy aid or impact vest, but don’t just rely on that. Practise your open water swimming and make sure you stay fit.

5. Environmental Hazards:

   • Mitigation: Be aware of local wildlife, avoid polluted waters, and steer clear of hazardous areas.