Wind directions

Assess the wind direction carefully. Cross-onshore or cross-shore are best for kitesurfing. You can kitesurf in other wind directions but they pose different challenges.

Cross-onshore

• • The wind blows towards the shore at about a 45 degree angle

  • Ideal conditions for kitesurfing, in the range 18 to 23 knots.

  • You and your kite will get blown back onto the beach if you ditch your kite and can't relaunch it.

  • You will be able to go downwind on one reach for a distance, and walk back upwind along the beach (the "walk of shame") if you have not mastered staying upwind.

  • Cross-onshore sea breezes tend to be a smooth consistent laminar air flow with little turbulence, providing consistent wind which is great for kitesurfing.

  • Skill level: Beginners and above

Cross-shore (also known as side-shore)

• • The wind blows parallel to the shore

  • You will get blown onto the beach eventually if you dunk your kite and "sail it" back in the direction of the shore.

  • Skill level: Beginners and above.

Onshore

• • The wind blows towards the shore at a 90 degree angle

  • You will get blown onto the beach immediately if you dunk your kite.

  • It can be hard to get out through any shore break.

  • Skill level: Intermediate and experienced kitesurfers. You must be able to stay upwind to keep away from the beach.

Cross-offshore and offshore

• • Cross-offshore and offshore winds are not good for kiteboarding.

  • Offshore winds pose the danger of being blown away from the shore in the event of equipment failure or loss of control.

  • Offshore winds can be very gusty and turbulent as the wind airmass comes off a land mass.

  • You can kitesurf in offshore winds in a lake or when a safety boat is available.

  • Skill level: Not recommended for kitesurfing. Experienced kitesurfers only, with boat backup.