It's a broad question. Personally, I just went with the exact same brand and size kite and board as I learned with, as I didn't know any better.

I get the impression until you've spent 6-12months in the sport, you don't really know what you're after/prefer.

Many kite shops do demos so you can try before you buy. But if you're new new new, it may be a waste of time.

I'd personally recommend something new ish if you're buying second hand (for all sorts of reasons, including: generally easier to depower, easier/more straight forward to set up etc) as you don't want nagging doubts about your progress to be blamed on that dodgy kite off ebay!

That said, there's nothing wrong with second hand if you can get some 'experienced' advice.

Good luck and welcome!

Thank you for the great replies guys!

Consider getting something second hand as trashing a $2000+ kite due to beginner inexperience whilst only human is an expensive leisure activity. Not too old though, nothing older than 4yrs will still give you some life left in it plus the advancements of modern design improvements.

KiterBen said...
Hey Mate,

I highly recommend the ozone brand, there build quality is excellent, the bar is simple and the kites are nice to fly.

My first kite was a 2011 ozone c4 which I picked up for $800 bucks. In my opinion it has been great to learn with. I have given it an absolute flogging (I must admit I have had it repaired twice but I am excessively hard on my kite and am on the water very often usually attempting things above my skill level.

Ben

I'll second that. I had my lessons on the BWS Noise kites, but just bought Ozone for my first kite. The quality of the Ozone seems much better.