| Surfing | Windsurfing | Kitesurfing |
| Learning Curve |
Steep Initially |
Long, gradual curve |
Steep curve |
| Equipment Intensity |
Board, fin, leash
wetsuit, wax |
Board, mast, boom
sail, mastbase, fin,
line, tools, wetsuit,
harness, helmet |
Kite, board, lines, bar, harness, wetsuit, helmet |
| Portability |
Roof rack;
Long board 8-10 ft |
Roof rack;
Board and mast pieces
8-10 ft |
Very portable;
Small board and backpack
Easily fits in most cars |
| Conditions | Normally best in no wind, ocean swell conditions | Depends on skill level. Normally best from 15-35mph | Best in 15 to 25mph, flat water conditions |
| Aggressiveness |
Aggressiveness helps |
Aggressiveness sure helps |
Aggressiveness an absolute must to learn |
| Altitude |
It’s all about the Drop… |
Getting big air possible with practice and chop or wave ramps |
Big air possible in all conditions |
| Soul |
You ‘n’ mother earth |
Cruising with the breeze |
Skateboard attitude |
| Speed |
It’s all about the Drop… |
Definite winner |
Not as fast as windsurfing |
| Independence |
More fun with friends, but solo works too |
Self-reliant. Long solitary reaches if you please |
Normally need someone to help launch and catch kite |
| Access |
Limited to ocean surf breaks |
Tons of spots to sail.
Lakes, bays, ocean,… |
Need a lot of area. Kiting not allowed at certain times at certain beaches |
| Social Factor |
Hangin’ out, waiting for the wave |
Can be very social if waiting for wind |
Social time confined to before and after |
| Fun Factor |
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