Started this out in the reviews section, asking about twin fins. Now it has me thinking about breaking out the collection of surfboards in my shed including a twin fin. Trouble with these boards non of them have straps. What is the best method for water starting strapless kiting. Being a newbie I'm keen but have not quite got my head around it. Currently using a surf board that I sacrificed to foot strap plugs.
Cheers EB.

Hey mate,

You have the right idea, dont worry about the straps. Strapless should be less taxing on your boards as you will ride a bit slower and be more fluid, so they should last a bit if you take care.

You water start the exact same way you would with a twintip or your current surfboard, if there is enough wind you might be able to push the board so it sits on its side like your normal twintip would be when waterstarting, otherwise just sit your feet on top in the correct place and as soon as the kite pulls you will be read to go.

Give it a whirl, way easier than what you might think, and you will learn a lot,

Enjoi
Matt

if you are using a surfboard you know how to gybe .... ?
so why use straps

its easier to ride without straps provided there is some grip.
Gybes & footwork are much easier without straps.

Straps are only for chop & wild moves on waves

try removing your back strap & go from there

:->

It's easier than you think. Also strapless gives you so much more control over where you put your feet to be able to trim which is great for riding toe-side for us non gybing types.

EB said...

Thanks for all of that, yeh I have already removed the rear footstrap & enjoy the freedom that brings. Have only ridden a twin tip a couple of times, but when I currently water start I have the front foot in the strap to pull the board over. Have tryed a couple of times to start without the straps for assistance but wasn't too successful, have to try again. Gybing is definitely easier without rear strap as there is more room to move.
Strapless Dreamin.EB.

Careful doing knee or ankle in just using a front strap-everything has pros and cons....

EB - What are the waves like in NT?