How to keep your kitesurfing safe this summer

Now that summer has well and truly begun, and the beaches are packed, perhaps it's time for you to check your kitesurfing equipment is up to scratch.

Keeping your own kiteboarding equipment to a safe standard is so more important. Not only from a safety point of view, but to for others around you as well - both other kitesurfers, and the general beach going public. Nothing looks worse than a kite rolling down the beach, detached from the leash. Except for maybe a sponsored rider getting dragged on his face across a sand bar. Don't laugh! Both have happened at a beach near you, and it's sometimes because these riders failure to check equipment. Save yourself the embarrassment this summer season by following our quick checklist before your next session. Time is short when you're kiteboarding, so we'll keep it quick!

Kiteboarding Gear Check

Inspect for damage o Leash webbing and bungee. o Leash quick release o Harness straps and attachment points o Harness hook. o Pump hoses and fittings o Lines o Quick Release Mechanism Check for functionality o Leash Quick Release - Releases o Chickenloop Quick Release - Releases, and re-engages correctly. o Pump - Pumping air both up and down. Replace every year o Sunscreen in your car o Sunglasses - if scratached o Aquapack (if you use one for your keys) o Rashie o Hat o First Aid Kit - or at least replace the bits you used!

Extensive Gear Check

Inspect for damage o Leash: Webbing, Bungee & Hook o Leash Quick Release o Harness straps o Pump hoses and fittings o Lines & Bar Grip o Quick Release/Suicide Release Mech. o Kite Leading Edge o Bridles, especially around pulleys o Canopy o Board rails, especially heelside o Footstrap webbing, bolts & laces o Binding inner linings, laces, mounts Check for Functionality o Leash QR, especially if you ride Suicide! o Pump - Pumping air up and down. o Chickenloop Quick Release - Releases, and re-engages correctly. o Binding laces o One-Pump Fittings o Pulleys on kite bridle Replace every year o Sunscreen in your car o Sponsor Rashie o Sponsor brochures/business cards o Stickers on your board/car o First Aid Kit - or at least replace the bits you used!