Power kites are kites that are pretty large in size and are made in such a way that it gives the user a lot of pull. Power kites can be used for purposes like pulling things, and people like surfers, snow boards, roller skaters and also buggies. But power kites can be used purely for fun just to fly in the sky.

Power kites came into being in the 1970s, and in recent years these kites have undergone many changes and now come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on how it is going to be used. Generally they come in sizes ranging from one and a half meters square to fifty meters square. The bigger the kite the more pull it will exert on the user. A small power kite is quite fast through the air making it all the more exciting to fly it.

One of the first power kites was the ‘Flexifoil’ which was created on the two-line design. Then came the ‘Sparless Stunter’. The exclusive compartmentalized air frame of the power kite traps the wind creating further thrill into its sphere. The power kite is small enough to be carried around, but powerful enough to be utilized for skiing, kite surfing, roller skating etc.

Now power kites are available in two main types, namely the leading edge inflatables and the foil kites. The first variety also called inflatables or C-kites are generally made of rips top nylon and have a plastic bag that can be filled with air. This bag spreads across the front of the kite with more smaller bags that are at right angles to the main bag in such a way that they make for the foil of the kite. When the bags are inflated they give the kite its shape and the air bags also prevent the kite from sinking when they fall into the water. These types of kites are generally preferred by kitesurfers because they are pretty fast and extremely responsive to the surfer’s controls.

The foil kites are also typically made from the same material as the leading edge inflatable kites and are provided with air pockets and bridles that are attached to either side of the kite to give it the shape of an arc. The foil kite is made with two types of configuration; the open cell and the closed cell. The open cell foil kites depend on the permanent flow of air into the inlet valves in order that they remain inflated, while the closed cell foil kites are filled with air in the air bladders so they remain inflated at all times.

As years went by the power kite became more focused and the Ozone company created three models of the power kite called the ‘Ozone Fury’, that was designed for the novices, the ‘Yakusa’ created with wheel buggying in mind and the ‘Access’ though considered for snow kiting, but became an all-purpose kite. The ‘Access’ with its additional line could easily be deactivated during emergencies.

So to get started and join in the fun why not try using the two line model power kite that are quite small and easy to handle. You will find it pretty simple to adjust the positioning and the strength of these kites whether you are on a buggy or a land board.  Once you learn the basics it is a delight to go power kiting and you will find that you soon get addicted to it. And as days go by you get to sharpen your skills and enjoy the thrills of power kiting.

Power kiting conceived in 1980 takes you through an exhilarating experience which only the adventure lover can enjoy to full hilt. It can be described as a communion between the kite, the wind and you! In power kiting the kite is powerful enough to pull the surfer in any direction. A power kite maybe described as an aerofoil shaped wing manufactured from high performance fabric, supported by bridles.

Power kites come in different sizes and you can make your selection to match the wind conditions. Bigger kites serve lighter winds while smaller ones are capable of battling strong wind conditions. The expertise of the surfer also has a part to play in the selection of the size. Smaller ones are for beginners and as they muster up enough skills, they can try bigger ones. Normally, a veteran surfer will have at least 3 kites in hand. This will enable him to use any one according to the wind conditions on that day.

Let’s take a look at the different types of power kites available:

The most sought after kites in power kite surfing are the foil kites which are modeled after the parafoil. The basic design comprises a number of cells which lets in air through their various holes to inflate the kite. A ram air type of inflation system is used here where air is forced through the leading edge to inflate cell walls so as to bring about the aerodynamic lift. Foil kites are commonly used in land based power kiting activities. It can also be effortlessly re launched without any aid because of their light weight. But in case they end up being submerged in water, the cells become wet and re launching become difficult.

The second variety is the inflatable power kite which has bladders in several parts that can be inflated ad it scores over the foil kite because there is no need for a bridle, making it easier to maintain. Also the struts and leading edge are filled with air making re launch even in water quite easier.

Four line power kites are more controllable making it easier for the surfer to launch as well as land the kite on his own. They do provide an enormous amount of lift though, so be careful in strong winds.

Experts on power kite surfing attempt interesting stunts like kite jumping which can be quite dangerous. Appropriate safety gear should be used like helmets, knee and elbow pads etc. Also it’s always better to do it on soft sand, grass or water since the landing can be quite abrupt and hard.

Take adequate measures to ensure maximum safety. A helmet is something you certainly cannot do without in any form of power kiting. Also ensure that the safety mechanism on your kite is functioning properly so that in dire consequences you can detach yourself from your kite. Needless to say, only strong swimmers need attempt this sport and be sure to attend the necessary training classes before you make your first attempt.