Kiteboarding, What can I do?
Kiteboarding in the Columbia River Gorge
What is it?
Kiteboarding, or kitesurfing is a surface water sport that uses wind power to pull a rider through the water on a small surfboard or a kiteboard (similar to a wakeboard). Generally kiteboarding refers to a style of riding known as freestyle or wake-style, whereas kitesurfing is more “wave-riding” oriented. These two styles usually require different boards and specific performance kites.
A kitesurfer or kiteboarder uses a board with or without foot-straps or bindings, combined with the power of a large controllable kite to propel the rider and the board across the water. Kiteboarders change kite size and/or line length from the harness to the kite depending on wind strength — stronger winds call for a smaller kite to prevent overpower situations. It is important to avoid using too large a kite, particularly when the surfer is new to the sport. Training kites range anywhere from 1 to 3 meters, whereas bigger kites usually range from 5 to 14 meters. In the Columbia Gorge, usually a 5 or 7 meter kite is best for strong winds and a 11 to 13 meter kite for slower winds. The size of kite needed also depends on the weight of the rider and how intense the desired ride.
The sport is becoming safer due to innovations in kite design, safety release systems, and instruction. Riding styles have evolved to suit riders and conditions, such as wakestyle, waveriding, freestyle, jumping, and cruising. [more]
When it happens?
Early season starts in April or early May and lasts through September, although you may see some kite enthusiasts on the river in October/November with thick wetsuits. West wind is most common with many windy days. Late season starts in September and goes through November with West and East wind days and more no wind days. A sailable day is defined by them as a day that contained a 3 hour time period where the one minute wind speed average was 10MPH or so. Wind can be blowing as early as 10am, so head to beach early to avoid the crowds. Winds usually shut down or at least start tapering 2-3 hours before sunset. The best wind and open water can usually be found far upwind of the Hood River sand bar.
Other helpful links:
Columbia Gorge Kiteboarding Association
Kiteboarding information & Live Cameras of the Gorge
Event site in Hood river shown below:
