What are the best kitesurfing brands for beginners?

reedin whispermodel kite

The best kitesurfing brands for beginners are Duotone, Cabrinha, North and Naish for their stable flight characteristics and predictable behavior. These brands offer user-friendly kites that forgive mistakes and guarantee a safe learning experience. For beginning kitesurfers, Core, Slingshot and Ventum are also excellent options that provide reliable performance without complex handling.

Which kitesurfing brands are most suitable for beginners?

For beginning kitesurfers are Ventum, Cabrinha, North and Naish the most recommended brands because of their stable flight characteristics and beginner-friendly designs. These brands have years of experience in developing kites that forgive mistakes and have a predictable flight.

Duotone is known for their Evo series, designed specifically for beginners with excellent stability and easy restart features. Cabrinha offers the Switchblade line that balances perfectly between stability and performance, ideal for those looking to progress. North's Rebel series is popular among kite schools because the kites respond very predictably.

In addition to these traditional brands, Core, Slingshot and Ventum excellent choices for beginners. Core's XR series combines user-friendliness with modern technology, while Slingshot's RPX and Code models are known for their stable nature. Ventum offers affordable options like the Xplore series that are perfect for beginning kitesurfers.

What makes a kitesurfing brand suitable for beginners?

A kitesurfing brand becomes suitable for beginners by stable flight characteristics, predictable behavior and easy handling. The kite should forgive mistakes, respond slowly to steering movements and be easy to restart from the water without aggressive reactions.

Important features of beginner-friendly kites are:

  • Wide wind range for use in different conditions
  • Slow turn speed that prevents sudden movements
  • Stable position in the air without constant adjustments
  • Simple water start features
  • Good depower capabilities for safety

Durability also plays a big role, as beginners are more likely to make crashes and handle the kite harder during the learning process. Brands known for strong construction and good warranty terms are therefore ideal for new kitesurfers. Parts availability and repair service is also important for a worry-free kitesurfing experience.

How much does kitesurfing equipment from good brands cost for beginners?

Complete kitesurfing equipment from quality brands for beginners costs between €2,000 and €3,500 new, including kite, board, bar and harness. Used sets from good brands are available from €1,200 to €2,000, depending on the condition and age of the equipment.

A realistic cost allocation for new equipment is as follows:

  1. Kite (9-12m): €800 - €1,200
  2. Kiteboard: €300 - €600
  3. Control bar: €250 - €400
  4. Harness: €100 - €200
  5. Wetsuit: €150 - €400
  6. Accessories (pump, repair kit): €100 - €150

For beginners who want to avoid the high purchase cost, we offer flexible subscriptions starting at €25 per month. This gives you access to premium brands such as Core, North, Slingshot and Naish without the large upfront investment. This is especially advantageous because beginners often discover their preferences while learning and later want to switch to other kite types.

What kitesurfing equipment do beginners need first?

Beginners first have a complete set consisting of kite, board, control bar and harness needed. These four items form the basis for safe kitesurfing, supplemented by a wetsuit and safety gear such as helmet and impact vest.

The essential equipment for beginning kitesurfers:

  • Kite (9-12 meters): Duotone Evo, Cabrinha Switchblade or North Rebel
  • Twintip board: Cabrinha Spectrum, Core Choice or Slingshot Misfit
  • Control bar: North Navigator, Core Sensor or Cabrinha Overdrive
  • Seat harness: For better back support while learning
  • Wetsuit: Adapted to Dutch water temperatures
  • Safety equipment: Helmet and impact vest for protection

When choosing brands by category, Cabrinha and Core perform excellently in boards, while North and Naish are known for their reliable control bars. Ventum offers good budget-friendly alternatives without sacrificing quality. Most importantly, all components are well matched and suitable for the Dutch climate.

How to choose the right kit size as a beginner?

The correct kit size for beginners is determined by body weight, average wind strength and skill level. As a general rule, 60-75kg body weight needs a 9-10m kite in 15-25 knots of wind, while 75-90kg kitesurfers are better off with a 10-12m kite.

Practical guidelines for kit size selection:

  1. Light (50-65kg): 8-10m kite for Dutch conditions
  2. Average (65-80kg): 9-11m kite as first choice
  3. Heavy (80-95kg): 10-12m kite for optimal performance
  4. Very heavy (95kg+): 12-14m kite or more power-oriented models

For Dutch wind conditions, we often advise beginners to start with a slightly larger kite (10-12m) because the wind here can be variable. Brands such as North Orbit, Core XR8 and Naish Pivot are excellent choices in these sizes because of their wide wind range and stable nature.

The advantage of a flexible subscription is that you can try different kit sizes to find your ideal setup. You can start with a conservative size and later switch to smaller or larger kites as your skills increase. Through our set composition service we will help you find the perfect combination for your weight and local wind conditions. For personal advice you can always Get in touch with us.

Kitesurfing Equipment

Tailored for you

Other KnowledgeHub articles

Can you cancel monthly when renting a kiteset?

Many kitesurfing subscriptions do indeed allow you to cancel monthly, but it depends on your contract type. Flexible subscriptions offer monthly cancellation at slightly higher prices, while longer contracts have better rates but less flexibility. Term of notice varies from immediate termination to several months, depending on provider and package chosen. This is especially useful for novice kitesurfers who want to try the sport or experienced riders who only kite seasonally.

Read more "

How does renting a kiteset for beginners work?

Renting kitesurfing equipment offers beginners the perfect start without high purchase costs of €2000-4000. With subscriptions starting at €17 per month, you get access to premium brands and can try out different kites. This complete guide shows you exactly what gear you need, how to choose the right sizes and where to rent reliably in the Netherlands, including essential safety checks for rented gear.

Read more "

How do you prepare for an international kitesurfing trip?

Planning an international kitesurfing trip? This complete guide covers everything from documents and insurance to safe gear transportation and budget planning. Discover the best kitesurfing spots worldwide, essential safety tips for unfamiliar waters, and smart ways to save costs. From Tarifa to Cape Verde - learn how to start preparing 6-8 weeks in advance to avoid problems and enjoy worry-free kitesurfing.

Read more "

How to choose the best kitesurfing destination for beginners?

Discover which kitesurfing destinations are perfect for beginners with this complete guide. From safe water conditions to stable wind conditions between 12-18 knots - learn how to recognize spots with shallow waters, wide beaches and professional kitesurfing schools. Top Dutch locations such as Wijk aan Zee, Scheveningen and Vrouwenpolder offer ideal conditions for your first kitesurfing lessons. Plus essential tips for choosing the right instructor and recognizing safe conditions.

Read more "

What insurance do you need for a kitesurfing vacation?

For a safe kitesurfing vacation, you need more than standard travel insurance. Kitesurfing often falls under "extreme sports" and is excluded from basic policies. You need at least three essential insurances: travel insurance with watersports coverage, health insurance abroad, and liability insurance. In addition, your precious equipment (often worth thousands of euros) deserves separate attention. Costs range from €15-50 per month for basic coverage to €80-150 for comprehensive packages. Find out which specific coverage you need and avoid costly surprises during your dream vacation.

Read more "

Which kitesurfing destinations are the most popular in Europe?

Europe offers kitesurfers spectacular destinations from Portugal's consistent winds to Denmark's challenging waves. This complete guide reveals the most popular kitesurfing spots, compares wind conditions by season, and helps you choose the perfect location for your skill level. Find out why Tarifa, Algarve and Fuerteventura top the list, which spots are ideal for beginners versus advanced surfers, and what to expect in terms of cost. With practical tips on the best season for each destination and factors that make a kitespot truly popular, you'll find everything you need for your next kitesurfing adventure here.

Read more "

Want to test out your new kite first? Which can! Plan your Try & Fly!