How to Land a Trainer Kite

Flying a trainer kite is the first step in learning to kite surf or kite board; however, it is also fun on its own. Trainer kits, which range in size from 1 to 5 square meters, are ideal for practicing essential maneuvers or simply having fun. Most trainer kites have four lines: two brake lines and two power lines. Landing the kite properly is important to prevent damage to you or your kite. Although it may take a bit of practice, landing a trainer kite will be easy for novices as well as experts.

Things You'll Need

  • Wind indicator
  • Kite stake
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a wind direction indicator, such as a flag or windsock, in the ground before you send your kite aloft. Stand with your back to the wind as you fly your kite.

    • 2

      Find the "wind window" -- an area directly downwind of you. It extends from just above the ground to almost directly overhead. In the wind window, a kite has the greatest pulling force, for the wind is meeting the kite head-on.

    • 3

      Steer your kite either left or right to the edge of the wind window, where the pulling force on the lines is reduced.

    • 4

      Slowly work the kite back and forth just outside the wind window. Make small figure-eights with the kite as it loses altitude. Once it is no longer directly in the wind, the kite will slowly descend. Move the kite further outside the wind window if it does not descend.

    • 5

      Pull gently on the brake lines as the kite descends. Most trainer kites have four lines: two power lines connected to the top of the kite, and two brake lines attached to the bottom of the kite. Walk forward slowly if your kite does not have brake lines.

    • 6

      Release tension on the lines as the kite touches the ground. Do this by walking toward the kite. If you are using a kite bar, disconnect it from the harness. If you are using kite handles, put them down in front of you.

    • 7

      Secure the lines by staking them to the ground. This prevents the kite from blowing away yet keeps it ready for another launch.