Progression
Jumping
Your first jumps should be controlled, safe and repeatable before they become big.
Jumping is what brought most riders to the sport. It is also where the highest injury risk hides: a 5 m jump that goes wrong is the same impact as falling from a roof. Build the foundation first, then go up.
When are you ready to jump?
- →You ride upwind confidently on both tacks
- →You control your speed up and down
- →You know the right of way at the spot
- →You have open space downwind for the landing
- →You can land flat without spinning out
Basic jump mechanics
A kite jump is a sequence: speed → edge → send the kite up → release the edge → sheet in at takeoff → spot landing → redirect the kite forward. Each step depends on the previous one.
Step by step first jump
- 01Ride with comfortable, controlled speed
- 02Check that the downwind area is clear
- 03Edge progressively against the pull
- 04Send the kite from 10 to 12 (or 2 to 12)
- 05At takeoff, sheet the bar in
- 06Keep the body compact, knees up
- 07Redirect the kite forward for a soft landing
- 08Ride away downwind on landing, do not stop the kite
Common mistakes
- →Jumping too close to shore or other riders
- →Sending the kite too aggressively
- →Not loading the edge enough before takeoff
- →Looking down instead of along the landing line
- →Forgetting to redirect the kite — body bottoms out
- →Landing with stiff legs and no edge
Safety rules
- →Never jump near other people or downwind of the beach
- →Never jump in shallow water
- →Avoid gusty overpowered conditions
- →Respect right of way before every send
Related guides
Keep learning
FAQ
Frequently asked
When should I start jumping?+
Once you ride upwind confidently and can control your speed. Without those, jumps are uncontrolled crashes waiting to happen.
How do I jump higher?+
More edge before the send, a smoother and longer kite send, and trusting the kite to lift you. Power alone is not enough.
Why do I crash when landing?+
Usually you forgot to redirect the kite forward, or you landed with stiff legs and no edge. Land like a downhill skier.
Do I need strong wind to jump?+
You need enough wind to be lit up on your kite — typically 18 knots and up. Underpowered jumps are short and unstable.
Is jumping dangerous?+
It can be. The two main risks are jumping in the wrong place and jumping in the wrong wind. Both are within your control.
Right kite, right wind
Most failed jumps come from the wrong setup. Run the numbers in the Kite Size Calculator and check the wind in the converter.
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