Hi guys, I'm planning on getting some kitesurfing lessons and gear sometime soon, so have been looking around.

One of my friends went to WA Surf and enjoyed it, they have a deal whereby you pay for your lessons, and whatever you pay you get back on gear.

However, looking around, I was very impressed by the focus on safety by AKS, probably one of the most important aspects of picking up a sport like this, they have a full lesson outline on their website (www.kiteboardingschool.com.au/index.php/Lessons/), it sounds very thorough and posts on this forum also seem to recommend them.

However, they're also a fair bit more expensive, having to spend $3,300-3,500 for lessons plus gear. In comparison WA Surf would probably cost me around $2,500. I'm mainly worried about spending that much on gear starting out. I don't really want to risk destroying $3,500 worth of gear, and I figure I should buy pricier gear after I get some experience and work out what I'm comfortable with.

So... any thoughts?

Thanks, I'm already planning on trying out a training kite, will look into the DVD. From what I can tell there's a difference of $500-$1000 between the two schools for equipment/lessons.

haha I live in the hills so doesn't really matter, it's a fair drive anywhere. What I'm thinking is I could probably do with a wetsuit and other random equipment so might add that to the spend to hit the mark.

Also consider the spot you will have your lessons at. WA Surf and West Oz kiteboarding in Rockingham has great spots for learning (safe and small chop). As far as I remember they both do the "rider pack" (6 hrs of lessons) which is a must in my opinion. However AKS probably sell the best gear and gives the best honest advise..

I think its like 400 bucks for a beginners course over in lancelin. After that you are going to have to do it yourself anyway. Just make sure the wind is onshore and you will be fine.