Kitesurf Kite Size Calculator
Input Your Details
Recommended Kite Size
How to Use the Kitesurf Kite Size Calculator
Choosing the right kite size is crucial for every kitesurfer, whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an expert pushing your limits. Our advanced kitesurf kite size calculator takes the guesswork out of selecting your ideal kite by considering all the key factors that affect your performance on the water.
Understanding the Calculator Inputs
1. Your Weight (Including Gear)
The most fundamental factor in determining kite size is your body weight. Heavier riders need larger kites to generate sufficient power, while lighter riders can use smaller kites in the same conditions. Remember to account for any additional weight from your wetsuit, harness, and other gear.
Global Standards:
Under 60kg (132lbs): Typically use kites 1-2m² smaller than average
60-80kg (132-176lbs): Most common size range (9-12m)
Over 80kg (176lbs): Typically need kites 1-3m² larger than average
2. Wind Speed
Wind speed has the most dramatic effect on kite size selection. Our calculator accepts input in knots, km/h, or mph to accommodate riders worldwide. The general rule is that you’ll need a larger kite in lighter winds and a smaller kite when it’s blowing hard.
Global Wind Patterns:
Tropical locations (15-25 knots steady): 9-12m primary size
Temperate regions (variable 10-30 knots): Multiple kite quiver needed
High wind spots (regularly 25+ knots): 5-9m kites most used
3. Skill Level
Your experience level significantly impacts the kite size you should choose:
Beginners should size up 1-2m² for more stability and easier water starts
Intermediate riders can use the standard calculated size
Advanced riders often size down 0.5-1m² for more performance
Experts may go even smaller for maximum maneuverability
4. Water Conditions
Different water surfaces affect how your kite performs:
Flat water (lakes, lagoons): Can use slightly smaller kites
Choppy conditions: Better with mid-sized kites for upwind ability
Waves: Often require larger kites (especially for wave riding)
5. Kite Type
Modern kite designs have different power characteristics:
Delta kites: Most efficient, can often use smaller sizes
Bow/Hybrid: Standard sizing applies
C-Shape: More powerful, may need smaller size
Foil kites: Generate more power per m², can use smaller sizes
6. Board Type
Your equipment affects kite size needs:
Twin Tip: Standard sizing
Directional: May need slightly larger kite
Foil Board: Can use much smaller kites (often 2-4m² smaller)
Surfboard: Typically need larger kites for wave riding
7. Altitude
Often overlooked but crucial for high-altitude spots:
Sea level: Standard sizing
Above 500m: Add 0.1m² per 100m elevation
High altitude locations (2000m+): May need 2-4m² larger than normal
Interpreting Your Results
The kitesurf kite size calculator provides two key outputs:
Recommended Kite Size: The ideal single kite size for your inputs
Size Range: The acceptable range considering skill level and conditions
The interactive chart shows how your recommended size changes with different wind speeds, helping you plan your quiver if you ride in varying conditions.
Regional Considerations
While the calculator provides accurate global recommendations, local knowledge is always valuable:
Caribbean & Tropical Islands
Steady trade winds (15-25 knots)
Primary kite: 9-12m
Secondary kite: 7m for strong wind days
Europe & UK
Highly variable conditions
Typical quiver: 7m, 9m, 12m
North Sea spots often windy (7-10m primary)
North America
West Coast: Summer 8-10m, Winter 10-12m
East Coast: Similar to Europe
Great Lakes: 9-12m most common
South America
Brazil: 9-12m
High altitude spots (Colombia, Bolivia): Add 2-4m²
Australia & New Zealand
Summer: 9-12m
Winter: 7-10m (southern regions)
Tropical north: 10-12m year-round
Asia
Vietnam/Thailand: 10-12m
Philippines: 9-11m
Indonesia: Often 7-9m (strong winds)
Africa
Egypt: 9-12m
South Africa: 7-10m
Morocco: 8-11m seasonal
Advanced Tips for Perfect Sizing
Temperature Matters: Cold air is denser – you may need a smaller kite in winter than summer for the same wind speed.
Kite Age: Newer kites are more efficient – you might size down when upgrading to newer models.
Riding Style: Aggressive riders may prefer smaller kites, while freeriders often size up slightly.
Local Knowledge: Always consult local riders or schools about site-specific factors like thermal winds or gusts.
Multiple Kites: If you can only own one kite, choose the size that works for your most common conditions, even if it means sitting out extreme days.
Our kitesurf kite size calculator incorporates all these factors to give you the most accurate recommendation possible. Remember that personal preference plays a role too – use the calculator’s results as a starting point and adjust based on your comfort level and riding goals.
Whether you’re kitesurfing in Brazil’s steady winds, navigating Europe’s variable conditions, or tackling the strong winds of South Africa, this calculator helps you make informed decisions about your kite quiver for optimal performance and safety in all conditions.