nila said..
So who are 'the big 5' then?
So you reckon the place to save money is in a slightly older, possibly used kite. Harness is thing to spend the cash on?
I guess it makes sense as the harness shouldn't change regardless of my skills improving I presume and can be used with any future boards and kites I buy?
I used the term quite loosely because preferred makers you see out on the water depend on where you live and what sort of kiting is being done. But a quick look down the list suggests it's more like "The Big Eight"; Airush, Best, Cabrinha, Core, Ozone, North, Naish, RRD. If you have the dollars and know you are going to spend the next 2-3 years kiting then, sure, it's your money, so buy a new kite. The shop will love you! If you haven't got $1500, then a $900 year-old kite is a way to go, given you will be drilling it occasionally into the sand and sea while you learn. Why smash something new? Learn on a relative 'banger' and then look forward to the day, in about 18 months, when you pick up a latest model, spanking new, crispy kite for that new summer season. A good harness also means a NEW safety leash too.
