Kitesurfing vs windsurfing becomes crucial to discuss, since for adventure sports lovers often debate on which is better: kitesurfing or windsurfing. Since both are major and popular water sports from around the world, and both involve harnessing the power of wind and water but, at the same time, they are significantly different.
As the supporters and lovers of each of these sports find their sport is better than the other, this argument is endless. But, if you are a beginner, who is wondering which one to start with, this article will give you clarity about both the sports and help you in choosing the one best for you.
What is Kitesurfing?
Kitesurfing, also known as kiteboarding, is a combination of wakeboarding, windsurfing, surfing, paragliding, and gymnastics into one extreme sport. When kitesurfing in Algarve, a kitesurfer uses a large controllable kite to catch the wind, while moving themselves across the water on a small surfboard or kiteboard. This sport is known for its high jumps, freestyle moves, and speed, which eventually turns into an adrenaline-pumping experience.
What is Windsurfing?
Windsurfing, also known as sailboarding, is a surface water sport that combines the aspects of sailing and surfing together. The windsurfer stands on a board and with the use of movable mast connected, sails; to navigate through the wind across water. This sport requires a unique balance between your sailing tactics and surfing skills, while offering a diverse range of experiences through serene glides on still water.
Kitesurfing Vs. Windsurfing: What are the Differences?
1. Ease of Learning
The learning curve for both the sports differ, because learning windsurfing is easier as the initial process of learning to board is simpler. But, while you learn kitesurfing, it takes a time to get grip on the kite and the board together while balancing between the wind and water.
But there is a twist. Once a kitesurfer spends at least 20 hours of learning to kitesurf and later master the skill, he will be riding at a higher speed and use techniques that remain relevant for longer durations and can anytime realign with the skill. Whereas, a windsurfer will be able to learn the skill quickly but will require consistent learning and improvement in the sport. Hence, people choose learning kitesurfing over windsurfing.
2. Transport
Kitesurfing gear is relatively more compact and lighter, since it consists one board and a kite, which can be carried in a long bag and easily transported from one place to another. Whereas, windsurfing gear consists of 2 or sometimes 3 sail boards which weighs around 30 kgs. And dragging it around while transport becomes a hassle. Hence, in transport discussion on kitesurfing vs windsurfing, definite winner is kitesurfing unless your windsurfing institute has storage facility for your equipment.
3. Equipment Cost
The initial equipment cost for both, kitesurfing and windsurfing sports equipment are almost same which ranges from 1000€ to 2500€. You can also purchase a used kit for both the sports, which costs in the range of 500€ to 800€. But, the difference between the two kits is dependent on the durability of these kits. While kitesurfing kit needs replacement in around three years, a windsurfing kit lasts for around five years. And purchasing a used kitesurfing kit should be avoided due to its short life and it might not be a reliable option. But you can always go for a rental kitesurfing kit that we offer at the Kitesurf School Algarve, this lowers your purchase and maintenance cost.
4. Independence
Initially, while learning the sport, it is recommended to have experienced kitesurfers and windsurfers around to help you launch and land on the beach. Then for kitesurfing, until you get enough experience, it is strongly recommended to have an experienced kitesurfer on the beach to help you launch and land correctly.
Whereas, after a little experience, windsurfers can independently surf around and get back. But as per general advisory, it is suggested to have people around when you go on water, to be there if there comes any requirement or if there is any equipment malfunction.
5. Physical Condition
Windsurfing is a physically challenging sport. Your body must be physically ready in terms of legs, buttock muscles, and quadriceps strength, along with upper back, and arms strength. This is because, the position of your legs is in half-squat stance continuously while you are riding on your board, holding as well as adjusting the angle of your sail. Though while kiteboarding, you still need to use your legs and muscle strength along with the core strength, kitesurfing requires less physical effort compared to windsurfing.
6. Safety
Generally, people who engage in extreme sports like either kitesurfing or windsurfing, they might have had experience of other adventures too and hence they have a reflex for any unforeseen events. But, in terms of safety, kitesurfing is comparatively riskier than windsurfing due to the severity of events in the kitesurfing sport.
Also, if an incident occurs mid-flight while kitesurfing, it may affect everyone who is within the 200 meters of range and the ones who are downwind of them. Whereas, if an incident occurs while wind surfing, it affects anyone who is within only 5 meters of range. Also, the severity of incident is greater for kitesurfer and lesser for windsurfer.
7. Locations for Sailing
Windsurfing is a versatile sport and can be enjoyed in a wide range of wind conditions and locations. Just that, you should never windsurf in shallow water as it may land you in big trouble if you are cruising around in speed.
Kitesurfing requires open spaces that are free from obstacles; both on and off the water. If you kitesurf on shorelines that has tall structures like trees and lamp posts, then such place becomes dangerous and unsuitable for kiteboarding.
Conclusion
Choosing between kitesurfing vs windsurfing sports boils down to personal preferences, your physical conditions, and the type of challenge that you are seeking. Both sports offer unique ways to experience the exhilaration of harnessing the wind’s power while offering different and unique individual experiences. Choose the sport that is most suitable to you and let us know your choice below in comments!