How to Rig a Kiteboarding Kite (Downwind)

Are you confused on how to rig your kite?

Below is a step by step guide on how to rig a kiteboarding kite downwind. It is important be aware that this should NOT be done unless you have previously learned this during a kiteboarding lesson with a certified instructor.

Listen up!

Making a mistake while rigging your equipment could cause in severe injury. Please take your time and be very cautious as most incidents occur during launching and landing. Some of these accidents are due to improper rigging. Learn and follow a routine consistently. By doing the same thing over and over, in a methodical fashion, it is less likely you will make a mistake.

 Step by Step Guide on how to rig your kiteboarding kite downwind. 

1. Bring your kite, pump, and bar, to the rigging area.

2. Unpack your kite and lay it on the ground with leading edge facing upwind, trailing edge downwind.

3. Stand on your pump and attach your pump leash to the leading edge of the kite.

4. Pump the kite to the manufacturer's specifications. Make sure the leading edge is hard and the center strut is still malleable.

5. Once the kite is fully inflated, hold it by the leading edge and detach the pump.

6. Turn the kite over so that the centre strut is pointing directly downwind.

7. Put some weight on the kite near the centre strut, either sand or the board with fins facing upwards.

8. Walk downwind of the kite (behind the kite) with the bar.

9. Remove  the line ends off of the bar and take about 3 feet of line out. Place this line underneath of the center strut of the kite.

10. Continue walking the lines out downwind.

11. Place the bar with red on the right. Remember, red right rigging when rigging downwind.

12. Step into your lines. Place your heels close to the bar and step your feet on the inside of the steering lines. The center lines will be between your feet.

13. Reach down and grab all four lines with one hand. Extend your arm forward and walk towards your kite. Your body will separate the lines as you walk towards your kite.

14. Check your bridle lines are free and clear of any tangles BEFORE you attach your lines.

15. Attach your lines using a Larkshead knot. Start from one side of the kite and attache one line at a time in sequence.

16. Double check! Make sure everything is attached correctly and clean an clear before launching your kite. Please also check the wind to see if it may have picked up between your first assessment and your rigging. If this is the case and the wind has picked up significantly, rig a smaller kite.

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Next Step:

Rigged up and ready to go! Now Lets go over the proper way to wear a kiteboarding harness.