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An air gybe (also known as a jump transition) is an extension of a slide turn, the difference being you get airborne rather than maintaining contact with the water. These turns look simple and very elegant, but are surprisingly hard to master.
An air gybe is a graceful turn that opens up other transitions and skills. Level: advanced.
Air gybe steps
Air gybe steps
Slow down, edging the board until you are close to a stop, with the kite at 11
Bring the kite up towards 12
Kick hard off your back leg to get airborne. Physically jump before the kite pulls you up, pre-empting the takeoff - you will be airborne with the kite directly above you.
Pull the bar in to maintain full power and control, and keep it there.
As soon as you reach the apex of the jump, dive the kite in the new direction, and turn your body to face in the new direction of travel
Prepare your landing - extend your new back leg (your previous front leg) to land smoothly
Land with the board pointing downwind
Notes:
A "normal jump" where you edge the board, send the kite, then release the edge, will result in you swinging under the kite and losing power in the kite, making it impossible to change direction
The faster you enter an air gybe, the more you will pendulum under the kite
Air gybes are easier to do in stronger winds. More power makes it easier to get airborne.
External links
External links
Air gybes, IKSURFMAG - Issue 3
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