Based on riding skills, the average kiteboarder needs at least some 12mph of winds to ride efficiently; lighter riders can stay upwind and could ride in less wind, while heavier riders may need up to 15mph. The more experienced riders can ride on winds of over 40mph with a small maneuverable kite.
Now, when it comes to the direction of the winds, the commonly accepted model would be to always ride on side shore or side-on shore winds. Offshore winds are very capricious and can blow heavy and randomly with a risk of blowing even experienced kitesboarders out to sea…
Kiteboarding winds in Miami Beach
The windy season usually begins around October and continues all the way through May with big highs and low lows. On average we get 3-4 windy days per week. A typical windy day is in the 12-20 mph wind range which is perfect for kiteboarding. We recommend Side-on shore winds for any new riders which will allow riders to safely travel away from shore on the outbound tack and would make it be very easy to get back to shore if their kite drops into the water and the kite can’t be re-launched or re-launching is not a fully mastered skill.
Sideshore winds run parallel to the shoreline but not fully over the beach shores. These are great winds for more skilled riders because they often keep wave action uninterrupted and allow for easy outbound and inbound riding.
Kiteboarding winds and kite performance
Most kites will allow a skilled rider to push their 10 – 12m kiteboarding kites into the low 20mph wind range. As you progress in skills and look into owning smaller kites, you can begin to push the 25-30mph wind range. Using a smaller kite in high winds will move you much faster than larger kites in light winds.
Kiteboarding wind quality
Steady Winds between 12mph and 20 mph are the best conditions for new and skilled kiteboarders. Strong, gusty winds are for high-level experienced riders. The stronger the winds, the easier it is to ride upwind while lighter winds will force the kiteboarder to explore the wind windows in search of power and speed.
* During the spring, fall and winter when the air is cold, you will need less wind to ride since air density is increased. *
Important Note: There are many apps available that will give you the in-details of wind conditions in your area. We always recommend riders to check any weather news outlet or weather apps before committing to go kiteboarding because the winds can fluctuate and drop below what’s necessary for good kiteboarding or the winds are not always constant enough or even rise beyond safety during seasonal weather changes.
It’s such a letdown when wind conditions are not right but it’s an even bigger letdown to gear up, arrive at the site and have the whole experience go bust; it’s better to check those weather apps.