Smallest kite for Hood River?

Singlemalt · Since 21 Jun 2015 475 Posts White Salmon Obsessed

I carry a reel leash on my harness. I’ve used it a number of times to keep my foil from getting away while I deal with a kite problem or self rescue. Since the foil is going to head out downwind, it’s usually not an issue to catch. But if it’s a prolonged kite issue, you could still lose it. First thing, I go for the foil and get the leash on it. Now I’ve got the foil and both hands free to deal with the kite.

During the high flow time of the year, a twin tip that gets stuck straps down will be a challenge to catch. Same with a surf board. I bought a used go Joe and put it on my twin tip. It made sessions much less stressful. Saved me lots of body dragging in cold water. Sure, they look goofy, but it beats a long, losing, body drag. I’d try more new stuff instead of playing it safe.

Most times, a fall puts you downwind of your board. Combine that with a slow relaunch and a fast current….that twin tip can get a big head start. Don’t be shy about hollering for help. A little help and your board is back with you.

A spare leash or line with a clip is a good idea. Leashing you board to ride is a bad idea.

dobermankby · Since 07 Jul 2021 23 Posts

I do have a gojoe, I agree that it makes the sessions much less stressful. Also as a beginner how I look is the least of my worries Smile

Maybe I didn't make it clear, I was only talking about leashing the board temporarily with a clip during a kite relaunch. I would never ride with a board leash.

shred_da_gorge · Sat Mar 26, 22 6:51 pm

Yes exactly, temporary to secure the board to deal with any kite issues. Generally little risk to getting yarded and having the board skull you, but that risk is not non-existent either, so exercise prudence.

I switched to short leashes when they came out so had a number of long kite leashes lying around. Several folks I know do the same, or use old reel leashes for temporary holds, and I've body-dragged inverted kites all the way back to the sandbar from the hatch with the leash towing the board (the wind had backed off so I couldn't quite waterstart)... but I certainly don't recommend a habit of it. ;)