Fabian,

Glad to hear you're interested in kiting! You're going to want a 10-12 kite to start out with and around a 138-142 board. As far as the instruction thing goes... with all due respect this is not windsurfing. With windsurfing you can go dick around and give it a try and not mangle yourself. With kiting there are serious dangers and unless you get certified instruction (which does not mean getting a mate to show you) you're putting yourself, other kiters, and beach-goers in danger. If you're not the kind of guy who gives a **** about anyone else then think of it in a more narcissistic sense - you're going to ruin your gear which costs money and waste a lot of valuable time dragging around in the water and not up on the board having fun! Lessons are a small investment and will exponentially improve your progression. I've been kiting for 10 years and taught myself... not a good idea. I have had a few concussions and a separated shoulder to show for it.

On a brighter note - you're going to have an amazing time! Get a trainer kite and start messing around when the wind is too low to go out on your windsurfer. That's the first step and you can do that without an instructor. It will also make those low wind days a lot less frustrating.

In summary:

buy trainer --> fly trainer a TON --> get lesson(s) 1-3 usually does it (have a great time!) --> buy gear --> addiction sets in --> probably sell all windsurfing gear --> get on the water as much as possible!

Any other questions just ask!

Yeah dude give us a call at Kitepower (02) 9529 6894

It's good that you found it reasonably easy. You'll understand when you get on a full size kite why those flying skills are so important. The sport is 90% kite 10% board in the beginning.