As the 2010 season is just around the corner and before we know it the seabreezes will start kicking in and the wetties will be put away til next winter.... To help the newcomers or total beginners out with an idea on what the new gear costs, I thought that I'd knock this up as a rough guide.

What Should You Expect to Pay???

Put Simply: You get what you pay for. Kiting requires some pretty technical gear. A ton of research and development goes into good equipment that’s designed to perform, last and keep you safe. And don’t forget the super-strong, lightweight materials used to make stuff work well.

When shopping around, you can expect to pay $2500 to $3500 total for a new kite, board, harness and lessons. It’s quiet a small investment compared to other sports (i.e., no extra fuel or fees)! To help guarantee you get quality gear, here are a few industry averages you should expect to pay (based on the average 80kg rider):

KITES

Range: $1300 to $2500
Average: $2000

This is based on Adelaide’s common kite size from top companies: 12 square meters, which includes kite, bag, pump and control system.

BOARDS

Range: $800 to $1300
Average: $1000

“True” twin-tip boards are designed with specific flex points and are reinforced with strong, lightweight materials and include foot pads and straps.

HARNESSES

Range: $100 to $290
Average: $ 200

There’s no secret to harnesses, it either feels good or it doesn’t. Try on as many as you can for the best fit.

LESSONS

Range: $50 to $800
Average: $400

While you can learn rudimentary basics in a short lesson, it takes much more to learn this sport. If you are serious, expect to spend at least four to six hours and pay $80 to $100 per hour for quality lessons.

SAVING TIPS

Look For: Intro package deals. Many shops offer packages that will save you $300 to $600 if you purchase gear and lesson together.
Advice: Make sure the shop takes you through an in-depth interview. Your gear-evaluation skills may have yet to evolve, and credible shops only demo gear with knowledgeable kiters. Let the experienced riders pair your athletic background with the proper equipment for you.
Be Careful: Considering new budget gear? You’ll ride cheaper, but your skills may very well plateau early, as low-end gear lacks performance design. Plus, you’ll likely get lower quality, as craftsmanship has a price. Instead of buying extra gear a few months later, spend a little more now, and you’ll have the gear that’ll stay exciting.
Avoid: Used gear from unknown sources. You’ll be taking huge risks. Basically buy local!!!

Most local kiters will update their kites every season, this isn’t to say that the kite they are selling isn’t any good or lacks performance, its just that the new kites are about to be released and you will be able to grab a kite at a good price that is still current (i.e., still have great performance and recent safety systems.)

BUY LOCAL AND SUPPORT THE SHOPS THAT SUPPORT US.

Thanks

Tino
www.martynbone.com