Kiteboard size FAQ

Choosing the right length and width for the ultimate fit.

This article is part of a series. See also our other articles, on choosing the right type of kiteboard or learn about all other aspects of choosing the right kiteboard and its accessories with the complete kiteboard buyers guide.

One of the most frequently asked questions we get is ‘what size kiteboard do I need?’ The dimensions of a kiteboard, like length and width, greatly influence the behavior of the board while riding. In general, the length influences the manoeuvrability: longer boards provide a stable and more forgiving ride yet the radius of the turns also is longer so it requires more effort to make short, snappy turns. If you ride a shorter kiteboard, turning is easier but you’ll have to tame the board more during full speed laps.

The width of a kiteboard has the most impact on the total surface area and thus the volume of the board. The wider a kiteboard is the more volume it has which results in faster planing and more stability in light wind conditions. When riding in stronger winds or even overpowered conditions this larger width becomes a disadvantage. 

The width and length of a kiteboard add up to make the total volume of a kiteboard. Rider weight and preferred type of conditions and discipline are the most important criteria for choosing the length / width ratio of your kiteboard.

What size kiteboard should I get?

Here are some of our recommendations for riders with default* expectations of the board's performance.

* You can obviously decide to choose a different size based on factors of preference, see next chapter.

Kiteboard sizing FAQ’s

Do I choose a smaller, larger or reinforced kiteboard?

Now what if the size indication based on your weight still looks like a crossroad, for instance if you weigh 75kg and consider an Oceana. Or what to do if you are a bigger (read heavier) rider? Or when you have different preferences? No stress. We’ve got it all covered.

Here are some practical rules of thumb to consider:

We advice to go smaller than the size given when:

• you often ride in strong winds and/or like to ride powered
• you prefer a more playful/maneuverable board
• your kite sizes are bigger than average at your spot

We advice to go bigger than the size given when:

• you are riding with boots
• you prefer more comfort / less impact on your knees
• you are looking for better upwind abilities
• you are often riding in low wind conditions 15kn

We advice to choose a custom reinforced kiteboard featuring our Twaron® Aramid fibre when:

• You wish to improve comfort, shock absorption or smooth out high impact landings.
• You wish to maintain the boards sizing and performance aspects, yet need more stiffness due to your weight.
• When you are publically known as the ‘wrecker’: change your reputation with this extra strong layer of reinforcement.

Still feeling unsure? Feel free to chat with our shapers over the chat, whatsapp or phone!