Learning on a surf board?

jdubs · Since 21 May 2008 36 Posts

Are kitesurf surfboards built more sturdy for impact then regular surfboards? I have a 6'6" thruster sitting around I thought I could use (I would have to put straps on it) but i am worried that kitesurfing might stress it too much? Besides the stress issue would a multi-directional board be more appropriate for a begginer kiter? Thanks

D-Dub · Since 19 Jun 2007 30 Posts Bend

you might find this helpful: http://www.nwkite.com/forums/t-8364.html&highlight=surfboards

Kite specific boards are more durable, but a fiberglass surfboard should work just fine providing you aren't jumping too much and don't put your harness through the deck.

jdubs · Since 21 May 2008 36 Posts

Thanks for the reply. How do you water start strapless? Hold the board against your feet with one hand and your other hand on the bar?

Kodiak · Since 01 Aug 2005 1114 Posts Slidey

Just put both feet on the board and the pressure of the kite against the board will pull you up. You don't need to hold the board with your hands.

tautologies · Since 24 Aug 2006 602 Posts Oahu Addicted

hey are you trying to learn to kiteboard on a strapless? If so you are asking for a lot of suffering.

I am all for learning to kiteboard on a strrapped surfboard...not a strapless.

A polyester board will die....even if you don;t jump..'I've been through a few...

Some kiteboards are made stronger and som aren't.

Just do you research. Ask how they are constructed. Look for a epoxy, but there is a tradeoff in weight vs strength. The super light super strong board does not exisit. A buddy of mine got a full carbon hollow super light surfboard...it took him about 10 sessions to break it.

a.

Hein · Since 08 Mar 2005 1314 Posts Possessed

blowhard · Since 26 Dec 2005 2027 Posts Windward

jdubs · Since 21 May 2008 36 Posts

Not planning on learning on a strapless, was just wondering. I will be getting a multi-directional and adding a front strap to my 6'6" thruster surfboard.

blowhard · Since 26 Dec 2005 2027 Posts Windward

I think it's a lot easier and safer unstrapped
until the surf gets big (then you need a good drag)
getting in straps is a pain in the ass
especially on smaller boards.

Big boards with straps can do some serious
leverage on your knees

Hein · Since 08 Mar 2005 1314 Posts Possessed

Sorry to get off topic earlier. You can add straps to your 6-6 with stick-on pads
that have built in inserts. NSI and Surftech offer them. NSI offers pads with heel
protection and also simple 2 hole stick on inserts that you can cover with your own
pad. Of course if you are handy with fiberglass then go for it that way.

Some people say a front strap is a bit sketch unless you are good at doing the splits.
Upper 5 to over 6 ft surfboards benefit from trimming with body weight so being
able to move your feet is important. Honestly, straps aren't the ticket for the 6-6.
Pads will help you stay on it. Wax works. Save the straps for something under 5-6.

As for learning strapless. That could be done. But the normal progression is boost
and dangle -> get hurt -> go strapless for therapy. Although I must say strapless
can lead to some serious wreckage.

DROCK999 · Since 31 May 2007 852 Posts Left Coast Opinionated