How To Start Snowkiting: Kitesurfing on Snow

Snowkiting, also known as kite skiing or snow surfing, combines the exhilarating feeling of kitesurfing with the snowy landscapes of winter. It's a sport that allows you to harness the power of the wind to glide across snow-covered fields and mountains, offering a unique and breathtaking experience. While it might seem daunting at first, with the right guidance and preparation, snowkiting can be an accessible and rewarding activity for people of various skill levels. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started, from understanding the basics to mastering your first ride.

Understanding the Basics

Before even considering getting on the snow, it's crucial to grasp the fundamental principles of snowkiting. This involves understanding wind dynamics, kite control, and safety procedures.

1.1. What is Snowkiting?

At its core, snowkiting involves using a large power kite to propel yourself across the snow while wearing skis or a snowboard. The kite acts as your engine, catching the wind and generating the force needed to move. The sport takes place on open, snow-covered areas, often frozen lakes, fields, or mountain slopes.

1.2. The Key Components: Kite, Harness, and Board/Skis

You need three main components to start snowkiting:

• The Kite: Kites come in various sizes and designs, each suited for different wind conditions and rider skill levels. Beginner kites are typically smaller and easier to control. Foil kites are often preferred for snowkiting because they are more efficient in lighter winds and can relaunch more easily from the snow. Leading Edge Inflatable (LEI) kites, commonly used in kitesurfing, can also be used, but are generally more susceptible to damage on hard surfaces if crashed.
• The Harness: A harness connects you to the kite, distributing the kite's power across your body. There are two main types: waist harnesses and seat harnesses. Waist harnesses offer more freedom of movement, while seat harnesses provide more support and are often preferred by beginners.
• Skis or Snowboard: The choice between skis and a snowboard is largely a matter of personal preference. Skis generally offer more stability and are easier to learn on, especially for those with prior skiing experience. Snowboards provide more freestyle options and are a natural choice for snowboarders. Wider skis or boards designed for powder are helpful in deeper snow conditions.

1.3. Understanding Wind Window

The wind window is the area in the sky where the kite can fly. It's a crucial concept to understand for safe and effective snowkiting. Imagine a half-sphere stretching out in front of you, with you at the center. The wind is blowing directly towards you. This half-sphere is the wind window.

• The Power Zone: This is the area in the center of the wind window, directly downwind from you. The kite generates the most power in this zone. Avoid spending too much time here, especially as a beginner, as it can easily pull you off balance.
• The Edges of the Wind Window: These are the areas to the left and right of the power zone. The kite generates less power here, making it a safer place to position the kite while learning.
• The Zenith: The zenith is the highest point in the wind window, directly above you. The kite has very little power here.

1.4. Essential Kite Flying Terminology

Knowing some basic terminology will help you communicate with instructors and understand online resources:

• Leading Edge: The front edge of the kite.
• Trailing Edge: The back edge of the kite.
• Bar: The control bar that you hold to steer and power the kite.
• Lines: The lines connecting the bar to the kite.
• Depower: Reducing the power of the kite. Most modern kites have a depower system that allows you to quickly reduce power in strong gusts or when you need to stop.
• Upwind: Moving towards the direction the wind is coming from.
• Downwind: Moving in the direction the wind is blowing towards.
• Luffing: When the kite loses tension and collapses.

Essential Equipment and Gear

Having the right equipment is crucial for both safety and enjoyment. Here's a breakdown of the essential gear you'll need:

2.1. The Kite: Size and Type

Choosing the right kite is paramount. Consider these factors:

• Wind Conditions: Smaller kites are suitable for higher wind speeds, while larger kites are needed for lighter winds. Consult a wind chart or seek advice from experienced kiters to determine the appropriate kite size for your local conditions. A good starting point for a beginner is a kite in the 6-8 meter range for moderate wind conditions (15-20 knots).
• Rider Weight: Heavier riders generally need larger kites to generate enough power.
• Skill Level: Beginners should start with smaller, more forgiving kites that are easier to control.
• Kite Type: Foil kites are generally preferred for snowkiting due to their efficiency in lighter winds and relaunch capabilities on snow. LEI kites can be used, but are more prone to damage on hard snow or ice.

2.2. Harness Selection

The harness transfers the kite's power to your body. Choose a harness that fits comfortably and provides adequate support.

• Waist Harness: Offers more freedom of movement, popular for more advanced riders.
• Seat Harness: Provides more support and prevents the harness from riding up. A good choice for beginners.
• Fit: Ensure the harness fits snugly but doesn't restrict your breathing or movement.

2.3. Skis or Snowboard

Your choice depends on your experience and preference:

• Skis: Easier to learn on, especially for those with prior skiing experience. Wider skis designed for powder are ideal.
• Snowboard: A natural choice for snowboarders. A wider board can provide better floatation in soft snow.

2.4. Safety Gear: Helmet, Harness Knife, and More

Safety is paramount in snowkiting. Never compromise on safety gear:

• Helmet: A must-have to protect your head from impacts. Use a ski/snowboard specific helmet.
• Harness Knife: Essential for quickly cutting the kite lines in an emergency.
• Warm Clothing: Dress in layers to stay warm and dry. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential.
• Gloves/Mittens: Protect your hands from the cold and wind. Gloves with good grip are important for holding the bar.
• Eye Protection: Sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from the sun and snow glare.
• Avalanche Gear (if applicable): If snowkiting in mountainous terrain, carry an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel and know how to use them. Consider taking an avalanche safety course.
• First Aid Kit: A small kit with basic supplies.
• Whistle: To signal for help if needed.

2.5. Optional Gear

These items can enhance your experience:

• Wetsuit Boots (Neoprene): Keep your feet warm and dry.
• Communication Device: A phone or two-way radio for communication in remote areas.
• GPS: To track your location and navigation.

Finding the Right Location

Choosing the right location is crucial for a safe and enjoyable snowkiting experience. Consider these factors:

3.1. Open Space and Flat Terrain

Look for large, open areas with minimal obstacles such as trees, rocks, or power lines. Flat or gently sloping terrain is ideal for beginners. Frozen lakes, snow-covered fields, and open mountain slopes are all potential locations.

3.2. Wind Direction and Consistency

Ideally, choose a location with consistent and predictable wind direction. Avoid locations where the wind is gusty or turbulent. Look for locations with a prevailing wind direction that is perpendicular to the terrain, allowing you to ride upwind and downwind easily.

3.3. Snow Conditions

The ideal snow conditions are firm and packed, allowing you to glide smoothly. Avoid locations with deep powder, icy patches, or crusty snow. Be aware of changing snow conditions throughout the day, as the sun can melt the snow and create slushy conditions in the afternoon.

3.4. Safety Considerations: Obstacles, Avalanche Risk, and More

Thoroughly assess the safety of the location before you start snowkiting:

• Obstacles: Identify any potential obstacles such as trees, rocks, fences, or power lines and avoid them.
• Avalanche Risk: If snowkiting in mountainous terrain, assess the avalanche risk and avoid areas with high avalanche danger. Take an avalanche safety course and carry avalanche safety gear.
• Other People: Be aware of other people in the area, such as skiers, snowboarders, or snowmobilers, and maintain a safe distance.
• Weather Conditions: Check the weather forecast before you go snowkiting and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Avoid snowkiting in strong winds, thunderstorms, or poor visibility.
• Access: Make sure you have legal access to the location and that parking is available. Respect private property and follow any local regulations.

3.5. Local Regulations and Permits

Check with local authorities to determine if any permits are required for snowkiting in your chosen location. Be aware of any regulations regarding kite size, riding areas, or other restrictions.

Taking Lessons and Getting Instruction

While it's tempting to learn snowkiting on your own, taking lessons from a certified instructor is highly recommended, especially for beginners. Instruction provides a safe and efficient learning experience.

4.1. Why Take Lessons?

Here are some of the benefits of taking snowkiting lessons:

• Safety: Instructors will teach you essential safety procedures and how to handle the kite in various conditions.
• Proper Technique: They will guide you on proper kite handling techniques, body positioning, and riding skills.
• Faster Learning Curve: Instruction will accelerate your learning process and help you avoid common mistakes.
• Equipment Selection: Instructors can advise you on the right equipment to purchase based on your skill level and local conditions.
• Local Knowledge: They can share their knowledge of local snowkiting spots, wind patterns, and safety considerations.

4.2. Finding a Certified Instructor or School

Look for certified instructors or schools with experienced and qualified instructors. Check for certifications from recognized organizations such as the International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO) or the Professional Air Sports Association (PASA).

4.3. What to Expect in a Snowkiting Lesson

A typical snowkiting lesson will cover the following topics:

• Kite Safety: Understanding kite safety systems, emergency procedures, and risk assessment.
• Kite Setup: Learning how to properly set up and rig the kite.
• Kite Flying: Practicing kite control skills on the ground, including launching, landing, and maneuvering the kite.
• Body Dragging: Learning how to be pulled by the kite without skis or a snowboard.
• Water Start Simulation (on snow): Practicing the motions of getting up on skis or a snowboard while being pulled by the kite.
• First Ride: Attempting your first ride on skis or a snowboard.

4.4. Practice and Patience

Snowkiting takes time and practice to master. Be patient with yourself and don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Focus on developing a solid foundation of kite control skills and gradually progress to more advanced techniques.

Basic Kite Control Skills

Developing strong kite control skills is essential for safe and enjoyable snowkiting. These skills form the foundation for all other snowkiting maneuvers.

5.1. Launching and Landing the Kite

Learn how to launch and land the kite safely with the help of an assistant or by using a self-launching and landing technique (depending on the kite type and conditions). Ensure you have enough clear space and that the wind is blowing in a safe direction.

5.2. Steering and Power Control

Practice steering the kite smoothly and controlling its power. Use gentle movements of the control bar to steer the kite and avoid sudden or jerky movements. Learn how to depower the kite quickly in strong gusts or when you need to stop.

5.3. Walking with the Kite

Practice walking with the kite while maintaining control. This skill is useful for repositioning yourself on the snow or for recovering the kite after a crash. Keep the kite positioned at the edge of the wind window to minimize power.

5.4. Figure Eights and Controlled Power Dives

Practice flying the kite in figure-eight patterns to generate power and learn how to control your speed. Perform controlled power dives by steering the kite quickly through the power zone to generate a burst of power. Gradually increase the intensity of your power dives as you become more comfortable.

5.5. Kite Recovery Techniques

Learn how to recover the kite if it crashes on the snow. Practice relaunching the kite from various positions and angles. Familiarize yourself with the kite's safety system and how to use it in an emergency.

Getting Up and Riding: Your First Glide

After mastering the basic kite control skills, you're ready to try your first ride on skis or a snowboard.

6.1. Body Positioning and Stance

Maintain a balanced and athletic stance with your knees bent and your weight centered over your skis or snowboard. Lean slightly forward and keep your arms relaxed. Look in the direction you want to go.

6.2. Getting Pulled: Controlled Body Dragging

Before trying to stand up, practice getting pulled by the kite while sitting or kneeling. This will help you get a feel for the kite's power and how it affects your balance. Keep the kite positioned at the edge of the wind window and gradually increase the power.

6.3. Initiating the Ride: Gentle Power

When you're ready to stand up, position the kite slightly higher in the wind window and gently steer it through the power zone to generate a small amount of power. As the kite pulls you forward, stand up smoothly and maintain your balance.

6.4. Steering and Speed Control While Riding

Use the control bar to steer the kite and control your speed. Steer the kite away from the power zone to slow down and towards the power zone to speed up. Avoid sudden or jerky movements that could cause you to lose control.

6.5. Staying Upwind (Eventually)

One of the goals in snowkiting is to be able to ride upwind, allowing you to return to your starting point. This requires a combination of edging (using the edges of your skis or snowboard to resist the kite's pull) and steering the kite effectively. Learning to ride upwind takes time and practice, but it's a key skill for exploring larger areas.

Safety First: Essential Safety Practices

Snowkiting can be a dangerous sport if safety precautions are not followed. Prioritize safety at all times.

7.1. Weather Awareness

Always check the weather forecast before you go snowkiting and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Avoid snowkiting in strong winds, thunderstorms, or poor visibility. Be aware of wind gusts and lulls, and adjust your kite size accordingly.

7.2. Site Assessment

Thoroughly assess the safety of the location before you start snowkiting. Identify any potential obstacles such as trees, rocks, fences, or power lines and avoid them. Be aware of other people in the area and maintain a safe distance.

7.3. Right of Way and Awareness of Surroundings

Be aware of other people in the area, such as skiers, snowboarders, or snowmobilers, and maintain a safe distance. Yield to those downhill from you. Be especially cautious in areas with limited visibility.

7.4. Using the Kite's Safety System

Familiarize yourself with the kite's safety system and how to use it in an emergency. Practice releasing the kite in a safe environment. Know how to cut the kite lines with a harness knife if necessary.

7.5. Buddy System

Always snowkite with a buddy. This will ensure that someone is there to help you if you get into trouble. If you are snowkiting alone, inform someone of your plans and expected return time.

7.6. Self-Rescue Techniques

Learn basic self-rescue techniques in case you get stranded or injured. Carry a first aid kit and know how to use it. Know how to signal for help if needed.
Important Safety Reminder: Always prioritize safety when snowkiting. Never overestimate your abilities, and be prepared to adjust your plans based on changing conditions. Snowkiting can be a rewarding experience, but it's crucial to approach it with caution and respect for the power of the wind.

Progression and Further Learning

As you become more comfortable with snowkiting, you can progress to more advanced techniques and explore new riding styles.

8.1. Riding Upwind and Downwind

Mastering the ability to ride upwind is essential for exploring larger areas and returning to your starting point. Practice edging techniques and kite control to improve your upwind performance. Learn to ride downwind safely and efficiently.

8.2. Jumping and Freestyle

Once you have a solid foundation of kite control skills, you can start learning to jump and perform freestyle tricks. Start with small jumps and gradually increase the height and complexity of your tricks. Consider taking lessons from a freestyle instructor to learn proper technique and safety precautions.

8.3. Exploring New Locations

Explore new snowkiting locations and challenge yourself with different terrain and wind conditions. Be sure to thoroughly assess the safety of any new location before you start riding.

8.4. Joining the Snowkiting Community

Connect with other snowkiters in your area and learn from their experiences. Join online forums, attend snowkiting events, and share your own knowledge and skills. The snowkiting community is a great resource for information, support, and inspiration.

8.5. Continued Learning and Improvement

Continue to learn and improve your snowkiting skills by taking advanced lessons, watching instructional videos, and practicing regularly. Set goals for yourself and track your progress. Never stop learning and exploring the possibilities of snowkiting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can save you time, frustration, and potential injuries. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Starting with too large a kite: Beginners often overestimate their ability and choose a kite that's too powerful. This can lead to loss of control and accidents.
• Ignoring weather forecasts: Failing to check the weather forecast or disregarding warning signs can put you in dangerous situations.
• Poor site selection: Choosing a location with obstacles, turbulent wind, or avalanche risk is a recipe for disaster.
• Neglecting safety gear: Not wearing a helmet or failing to carry a harness knife can have serious consequences.
• Riding beyond your abilities: Attempting advanced maneuvers before mastering the basics can lead to injuries.
• Lack of respect for the wind: Underestimating the power of the wind can be a costly mistake.
• Poor communication with others: Not communicating your intentions or failing to yield to others can create dangerous situations.

The Thrill of Snowkiting: More Than Just a Sport

Snowkiting is more than just a sport; it's an experience that connects you with nature and challenges you both physically and mentally. The feeling of gliding across a snow-covered landscape, powered by the wind, is exhilarating and unforgettable. The freedom to explore remote areas and the camaraderie of the snowkiting community add to the appeal of this unique activity. Snowkiting offers a sense of adventure, accomplishment, and connection with the natural world that is hard to find elsewhere. So, embrace the challenge, respect the elements, and enjoy the ride!

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