What it means
A **Kite Loop** is an advanced kitesurfing maneuver where the rider deliberately steers the kite in a full, fast circle, typically while airborne or with significant speed. The purpose is to generate a powerful, horizontal surge of power from the kite as it moves through its circular path. This strong pull can be used to propel the rider forward with immense speed, to gain height or distance during a jump, or to add a dynamic element to rotations.
Executing a kite loop correctly requires precise timing and control. The kite's position in the wind window and the speed at which it's steered will dictate the power generated. Loops are generally initiated by rapidly pulling one side of the bar towards the rider, causing the kite to turn sharply. As the kite completes its revolution, the rider must be prepared to absorb the resulting power surge and maintain control.
Kite loops are fundamental to advanced freestyle, freeride, and big air disciplines. They are distinct from accidental kite movements as they are always a controlled action by the rider to generate a specific outcome. While thrilling, they carry inherent risks due to the high forces involved and are typically only attempted by experienced riders.
Example on the water
During his big air attempt, the rider sent his kite to 12 o'clock, took off, and then pulled a powerful **kite loop** halfway through his jump to gain extra height and forward momentum, landing with a splash.
Common mistakes
- ·Attempting a kite loop too close to the shore or other riders without adequate space.
- ·Initiating a kite loop with insufficient kite speed, leading to a stalled loop or loss of control.
- ·Not being prepared for the intense, horizontal pull, resulting in being violently yanked downwind or losing the board.
- ·Beginning with a downwind kite loop when jumping, which can pull you down prematurely.
Why it matters
Advanced trick that creates strong horizontal pull.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a kite loop and a megaloop?+
A kite loop is a general term for making the kite do a full circle. A megaloop is a specific type of kite loop performed with the kite very low in the wind window (often below 45 degrees) while the rider is very high in the air, resulting in an extremely powerful and horizontal pull during the jump.
When do I use a kite loop?+
Kite loops are primarily used to generate powerful acceleration, add height or distance to jumps (often called a 'kiteloop jump' or 'boosted loop'), or to transition between tricks with added flair and speed. They are also essential in many advanced freestyle and big air maneuvers.
What's a 'downloop' and is it a type of kite loop?+
Yes, a downloop is a specific type of kite loop where the kite is steered in a downward-facing arc (typically from 12 o'clock towards the water). It's commonly used to generate power for water starts, to transition from toeside to heelside, or to maintain line tension and forward speed during landings from jumps, especially in light wind.