Today I was faced with either not kiting or learning to self launch and land . I searched on here your videos came up and the rest is history it went perfect. Thanks a lot for your time and skill !! Made my day amazing!!!
Thanks so much - You have a very clear and motivating teaching style. I did not know this tecnique was actually possible.. - Im learning loads of confidence building stuff from your instructional, even after kitesurfing for 18 years. Being near the lines be careful: Just to make people super aware of a mistake I made when that nearly cost me big time: NEVER to walk over or in between the lines of any downed kite that has the slightest potential to launch itself from the beach especially in strong winds. I always over weight park kites, but I learned an almost neck-breaking lesson where the lines and bar grabbed me and powered up during a differnet set of circumstances due to a series of compounded errors. The mistake I made, was running in-between the lines towards my downed, beached kite that had been quickly grabbed by my kite buddy who was also flying his kite at 12 o'clock. (bad bad but many do it it) This was what I thought was a helping hand after my failed self launch in 22 knots+ on a narrow, remote beach. After he grabbed it, I dropped my bar, kept safety leash on, and ran towards the kite to take it from him. but…...He then accidentally let go as got slightly jerked by his own kite. My kite rolled and re-launched very fast and accelerated over a 15 foot high impacted sand dune wall right through the power zone. Air accelerating over the dune amped the wind speed. I felt some lines catch around my legs and back , and then wham….within less than half a second, I had superman'd 20 feet without touching the ground, and hit head and shoulder first into this very hard wind impacted sand dune wall. aghhhhhhhhhahahhaha All buddies came in off the water to see be crumpled body and me groaning in pain. Luckily 1...it was cross-on shore so I hit the wall at an angle with a shoulder plus head rather than head alone and smeared off some energy. Luckily 2 the kite detached and then sank over the dune into some grass ( I used to have nightmares about being dragged across Tiree, a remote Scottish island covered in barbed wire and stone walls). I was beat up, hurting, maybe a cracked rib or two and shocked. kite punctured on sharp plants, but managed to kite (seat harness ) more or less okay a few days later After recollection and analysis plus a few bad dreams: I concluded the following compounded mistakes which seem obvious now. 1 was kiting a narrow beach with big hard sand dune wall, that me and my buddies looked over due to epic blue clear water and waves. It would have been safer at low tide, but I was on holiday and kiting non stop and exploring new beaches. Silly. 2 Attempting to self launch in such a tight spot with a major obstacle . I thought the sand dune was soft but it was rock hard and wind and wave impacted with small stones. 3 Not walking around enough to get the downed kite out the central power zone, 4 My friend grabbing my the kite to steady it whilst he had his own kite at 12 o'clock,. I should have pulled the safety in this tight beach location. I guess I was worried about by kite blowing over this big dune so was grateful for his 'let me hold it' gesture. Mistake 4 was then me running between the lines , and him not being in the position to guarantee he could hold it for long. Good points that saved me, A) wearing a helmet, B) Fat squidgy impact vest, C) Cross on-shore not on-shore gave me a glancing impact. D) I had pulled in the de-power strap as I always so when launching and landing this helped the force, but the bar of course powered up the kite as it caught around my body. So my Tip is : Only walk your lines when you are really sure your kite is super weighted down, face down and facing the wind direction. I will never run go between lines of a kite again when it is being landed, I still love kitesurfing of course!! Dear Flukes , it was great to see you walking well to the side of the lines in your video . Sorry to waffle on, but thought I would share my kitemare to keep folks safe .
Thanks Stephen! Glad you have found the videos helpful . Thanks fro sharing your experience mate, always good to get a perspective like that and glad you are ok.
Stephen Courtney thx for your nightmare story.. this will wake up me and a lot of people who thinking to easy about self landing a kite!... i’ll never ever walk in between my lines again!!!! 👍👊 And Flukes thx for show me the right way to do it .. learning a lot from you 👊
Had a kitemare today, had to try my first ever self landing in 20+ knots, botched it badly, and to make matters worse, my safety misfired and locked up with full power. Soo thankful that the kite somehow settled quickly and I was able to unhook but it could have been very very bad; it was starting to death loop toward the rocks. Found out that there was a knot in my safety line so there was no chance of it firing. Regardless, should have reviewed this and practiced in low wind before I tried it for real, will use this technique from now on. Always check your gear!. Love your stuff Luke! Also, the humming at the end was very soothing lol :D
Hey Marty, woah sounds hectic mate! Also checkout our video "self landing everyone needs to know" as that one will get you out of trouble in almost any situation (as long as the safety is still working :) This video here, is my least used self landing technique. Stay safe out there mate!
Super helpful, used this technique the other day. It was NUKING on my 7m, and nobody around to help land the kite. After a couple sketchy self-land attempts, THIS video came to mind. Worked perfectly and felt super safe. Thank you !!
Very practical technique that I tried out yesterday. You really feel the power of the kite as you get closer holding the center lines, but I felt safe and in control the whole time. Thanks Luke!
I would also recommend walking 20-40 degrees upwind right after you grab centerlines. Kite will end up laying steady on its back with its ends up downwind from you . Very stable position for the kite without generating any energy. Using this technique for years with no issues
PLEASE READ!!!!! This video demonstrates an alternative self landing technique for ADVANCED kiters ONLY that should be used at your discretion and with good judgment. Please also watch this video for a SAFE all level self land technique ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html Safety is always the priority. If ever in doubt, use your safety system to land your kite ALWAYS. Self landing is a great skill to have and understanding a variety of self landing techniques is in my mind essential. That way, no matter what the conditions or location, if needed, you can safely self land the kite. You should, however avoid self landing wherever possible, particularly in strong (25 knots and above) and gusty conditions. (It is always better to have a qualified kitesurfer help you land) This video demonstrates a method I use when all of the following are present. 1. There is no one around to help me land 2. The beach is clear of obstacles or people 3. I fairly assessed the conditions and environment and know I can comfortably and safely hold the lines, and walk to the kite Remember to practice in light winds until you are very comfortable with this method before using it for real. Keep yourself and others safe at all times
VERY IMPORTANT POINTER::::::: You got to make sure that line tension remains the same through the entire process. Also, ensure that the kite does not move away from you while you are approaching the kite, it must stay in the same spot!!!!!!! If you give it a bit of a slack --- BOOM! Kite will drift downwind and roll into the power Zone. Pretty cool method though! Be safe :)
Thats very clear will try that, I do worry when I land and there is no help that it will drift downwind and relaunch but when you did that demo there was no jolt like I expected. cool .
Hey Chris, yes please let me know how it works for you. Remember to practice in light winds and also take a look at my there videos for different self land techniques :)
I've been using this technique for years and it is essentially the same as using a self landing line attached to a fixed object - you are the palm tree and slowly but steadily move towards the kite. Not as clear from the video is that you have the added advantage of being able to walk upwind as much as you want as you walk towards the kite so it essentially becomes a front line flagging of the kite. It works well in high winds. Of course it's better to have someone catch your kite, but I prefer this over using a fixed object because you can move upwind and depower the kite. Be careful if using gloves though. The only thing I don't like is that the bar ends up getting sand all over it.
Thanks Doron, yes, totally agree. Glad to hear from someone else who uses this method. Like you say, I didn't really cover how easy it it to flag the kite once you have the lines, just a quick run upwind holding one line and the kite flags. Cheers!
wow flukes. I feel sorry for you. Haters gonna hate i suppose. Put me in the column of those who truly appreciate your video. I have been kiting 4 years and self launching ( with anchor ) 90% of the time. Good to know there are other options out there.
yes, that' demonstration is well executed, BUT not a safe method for most of people who are watching YT videos in order to learn something new. Good method, but too risky. And when I say risky, I mean that it doesn't forgive mistakes. Either you're gonna destroy the kite, or rip your hands on the lines if there's a sudden gust. You are making great videos, keep up, cheers!
Great video, its the first time i've seen someone else use this technique. I've done this many times before but I prefer a similar method where you do as you have done, walk up the centre lines a little and harshly tug on the line on the top (left line if kite on the right, right line if kite on the left). After the tug continue to pull in and walk up that line that you've tugged and the kite "flags out" into a safely landed position. I always leave my leash on and make sure i've unhooked in case it goes wrong you just let go of everything. You can see this technique in practice at the end of my Druridge bay video on my channel.
Hey Cameron, Great and yes I like the sound of that, I will come and check it out on your channel! I will also put out a couple of different self landing videos... I think you are right about the safety leash...as you can see, where I am there is nothing to much that can go wrong if I drop the kite (apart from the fact it ends up in the trees) but with any risk of people downwind it's SUPER important to have that attached.
Hey Luke, can you do this same video, but just holding 1 front bottom line with the kite upside down. 1) site kite on the ground 2) unhook the chicken loop 3) grab the bottom front line only, throw the other 3 lines forward. 4) walk up the line. with the kite sitting on its back.
this kind of happened to me the other day In a fresh and gusty west wind had no other choice safety failed haha but walked up the middle lines got close enough to pull it over not ideal at all
I really appreciate your videos. Super clear. I'm new to the sport and am wondering why you hold two lines not just one...it would flag out when you approach it with less tension and risk of rope injury etc. Thanks!
Hey Adam, thanks mate, yeah i only actually do this one in very specific situation (like over rocks etc where i dont want the kite to roll around) but in general, if its clear and open, just fire the safety and avoid holding the lines at all. You have it right too though, you can just grab one line and hold it and the kite will settle. It might just roill around a bit more, hence better to just release the safety. Thanks!
Used this method today in light winds (10-12 kts) - worked perfectly. Thank you for the video and caveats - I’ll take those on board for sure. Could one use this method in reverse to self-launch in relatively light winds? I’m thinking unhooked and walking the lines in advance of course
Awesome! Thanks for letting me know. I wouldn't do it in reverse. This method is kind of my last resort land only used whne i really need it. to launch I would be inclined to setup an anchor if its rough terrain or use the drag method on sand. Hope that helps :)
Hey, yeah, you can do that for sure. Walking to the kite is mainly if there is something stopping you from doing that like uneven ground, snags for the lines etc, so that the kite might do something unexpected if you move upwind. This way it sits there waiting on the wingtip. As you discribe works well if you have the space for it :) I also have some other self land method videos if you want to check them out for some other options too. Thanks!
thanks for your efforts, I practised it and it worked great. I'm happy to have this as an option if needed. I'm from Canada and never kite alone but I'm travelling in New Zealand and lots of solo kiting down here, so thank you.
Great to hear Thechadbba, Thanks for letting me know. This is a helpful landing technique for those rocky areas so it should help. take a look at our other videos for self landing. The anchor especially is a good one for harder terrain.
why not pull on the lower middle line until it flips on its back just in case a gust or strong winds hit it doesn't fly away... wouldn't that be safer for you and the people in the beach?
HI Ziad, The simple answer is yes, you should always do what you believe to be safe in all circumstances. This method should NOT be used if there are people down wind of you on the beach. You may however find yourself in a position one day where you can not safely use a single line, self land. this "resting kite" really helps in those moments. this is only one method out of many self land techniques that should be practiced so you are always prepared in any circumstance :)
Thanks David! I hope it helped! yeah, like I said... I've never had to let go of the lines yet... but sometimes it's good to have that option just in case.
Thanks guys. Awesome video as always! Could this be done by just grabbing one of the centre lines (the top one)? I'm interested to know why or why not :)
You can land your kite grabbing the top center, we have another video for that but there are a couple of small things to consider. Go and check that one out and also, keep an eye out for our new free self landing and launching course.
Hey Nicolas, Exactly, its not the textbook way but a good technique to have in the back of your mind if and when needed. 645 my kite is directly downwind, so I am walking downwind beside my lines, not downwind of them :)
Hehe :-) Still a good video... i disagree on the ones commenting on you. You inform people about how to do it and what the risks are. Let's say you would make a video crying out: this is the IDEAL way on how to land on your own. That would be incorrect... but instead you describe the risks. And give a good demonstration in strong winds. Keep up the good work
Hey Deleh, to be honest I have not done this with a 5 line kite and would hesitate giving specific advice., however, one of the nice things about the 5th line is ease of self landing and the simplicity of how the kite flags. I would be more inclined to focus on other methods that use the 5th line to land. That said, to attempt this self land technique, you would likely need to hold all 3 front lines to keep the kite stable on the wing tip. Thanks :)
its allot better to connect you safety at the front of your harness. if you get pulled now by your safety then you have a big problem since you will be flying around backwards
Hey Egbert, Yes, if you are still getting pulled by your safety leash... You have a big problem regardless!!! This harness has a secondary "breakaway" leash connection across the back of the harness. :)
Flukes Kitesurfing, it will be very hard to release that secondary release thing while being dragged around backwards. Seen somebody very close to death because of this, believe me this can safe your life.
Hi Egbert, yes, while i have not had any issues, I am glad you have brought it up as its worth certainly considering. Safety should always be a priority. If for any reason you are not comfortable with the position of your safely line attachment, or your ability to immediately break away easily and quickly in ANY emergency situation, then you should either practice, or re position the leash accordingly.
Interesting. So. Given all of the talk about using short leashes (unless you are doing manoeuvres that require a long leash) wouldnt it work better if you had an extra short leash attached to your harness then you are not dragging the bar through the sand.
Hey mate, I’ve doing this self landing techniques many times with strong winds with my duotone trust bar. I changed to click bar and yesterday I tried to do it and when I picked the center lines, the kite goes up so I couldn’t do it. Do you know why does it happen?
Hey mate , might just be the turning of the kite. Some kites are more stable on the wingtip than others. I'd recommend using one of the other self landing techniques if it doesn't feel stable :)
Thanks for this movie. It will help a lot of people. Can you do the same if there is no beach? Land it in the water because there are to many rocks or shells on the beach?
Hey Hans, the simple answer is no. i would not do this over the water. the kite has a tenancy to move too much and will likely roll. landing over areas covered with objects is potentially very dangerous. In that situation i prefer to use an anchor. I take my leash off and wrap it around a log/tree/post and self land that way.this means you are not attached to the kite if a line snags and something goes wrong. I don't have a video for this but hopefully soon
Why don’t you just pull on the top center line so that the kite drops with the leading edge facing upwind? Seems like a really big risk to walk up the lines when you can just drop it as such.
Yes you can do that way too, we have a video for pulling the center line :) best to only do that in lighter winds. Checkout our other videos for other methods. This one is only a last resort type move
That looks quite dangerous. While you walk up to it, things could go wrong. Isn't it a lot easier to just pull the middle lines once you have the leading edge on the ground? The kite will fall with the top side facing the wind and it's not going to relaunch while you walk up to it and secure it.
Hi Amit, depending on the circumstances, sometimes I find this is the safest way to land. Some times I simply can't afford to have the kite bouncing around and for that reason, having the kite parked there works perfectly. Grabbing the front lines to get the leading edge on the ground works great, but with my kite, really only works in lighter winds. It can also come with its challenges. If a gust hits the kite as you pull, the slack in the lines can create a situation where if you need to let go, the lines can potentially catch on the harness / bar and throw the kite onto a deathloop. The safest method is probably this ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html But in my opinion, it's important to have a few different ways to self land if needed. It sounds like the way you do it works great for you, so that's perfect :) This is really just showing a couple of other ways to land the kite that may suit in other situations. Thanks
I have an idea I have been trying lately, and that is unhook the safety leash too, and just leave the bar back where you started. so if it does launch in a gust, it doesn't matter about death loop. yes you will loose the kite, but better than your life. and the safety line doesn't help in that situation anyway, because the shock load will snap the line anyway.
Love your clear and crisp video. I want to ask you this since I am learning kitesurfing. Is it true that the kite only fly when C shape down without (w/o) pulling back lines ? When flying it side way, 3 or 9 oclock, since it is C shape, lift is essentially zero when no back lines pulled or if they are pulled equally ? Is that how and the reason why you seemed to let the gravity pull the kite down slowly when flying it side way ? And I guess pulling the bottom back line would help bring it down faster (and crash it) ?
I am sorry to say but it could not do it with my 9 meter 2017 Cabrinha FX. The tension on the lines is so strong that you can not walk to the kite. I landed the kite like in the movie, did the same routine. When i walked to the kite after 3 meter i had to walk back because i was afraid that i could not hold the lines anymore and i would had to let go of the lines and kite. My kite was also bouncing on the beach because it wanted to get in the air again. When i tried it i had gloves on, without the gloves i could not even hold it the 3 meters because of the tension on the lines. the wind was around 26 knots.
Hey Hans, Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it. A couple of quick things. First, trying this with your 9M in 26 knots is NOT recommended. That would be at the TOP of the wind range for this method and understandably felt difficult to hold. As mentioned at the end of the video, please practice this in light wind several times to get a feel for it. This way you would see how it works, become comfortable, and then, can more safely determine whether it suits the current conditions. Keeping the safety attached means you can let go if needed. How much your kite moves around will be determined by kite design, wind strength and quality. You may also like this video explaining a simple way to self land. ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html As I have mentioned, this particular video is an alternate method, and isn't intended to be the only way to land, rather ONE way you know how to land if needed. Practicing in light winds will give you a better feel for it. Thanks, Luke
Hans van der Toorn Don't feel bad, it didn't work because it was actually windy. He made this video with a 14 when the wind was dead. Bad advice here, beware of the RUclips professor ☠️
Ok , i know what you are saying but you video is starting with the text strong winds and say " when the wind is really blowing. Well really blowing starts at 25 knots in my opineon. ;-) but i get your drift........
Hey Hans, yes, I did, and yes, its a little misleading sorry... "stronger winds" was intended to differentiate between the "light wind" self lad video I have. The fact is, it comes down to your comfort level holding the kite.... So, for me, i can do this method up to 30 Knots with my 8 , but when its that level or above, I am looking to use a different method. IE: my safety system or an anchor.
Edmund, , I appreciate all comments, however, what you are saying here is incorrect and insulting. Suggesting I created this video using "smoke and mirrors" Pretending that this method works, when it doesn't... Is ridiculous. This WORKS. And even if you use it in light winds... It STILL WORKS. The end of this video I am on my 12 and its blowing around 22knots. I use this method up to 30 knots on my 8. I have used it MANY times without issue.
Hey, only if it makes sense to do so. It wouldn't make sense to do this on a crowded beach for instance. also, if you have space, just fire the safety and land that way. But if you cant fire the safety, and say the ground is rocks so you can drag the bar behind you, then yes, you can detach, move toward the kite slowly as seen in the video.
Yes Tom, ALL things become unsafe when you are overpowered...! Again, this video is to demonstrate an alternative self landing technique that should be used at your discretion and with good judgment. That said,, in the absence of an anchor, or someone to help land my kite, I personally prefer to land this way over activating the safety. (Even when I am juiced up) I have never had a problem and it is a great way to get the kite down for intermediate to advanced kiters. As always, do what feels safest... if you feel like you should use your safety...then you probably should.
Hi Newkitezone, that is a very dramatic statement. Safety should always be first, no arguments there. It is actually my understanding of kite integrity and aerodynamics that give me the confidence to safely self land this way. However, the use of the word "Die" simply cannot be ignored. For the sake of the people reading this and myself, can you please elaborate as to why you believe this self landing technique would result in near certain death, as opposed to another self land method? I would be interested to hear the difference and what specifically you think makes it unsafe. I would like to point out that I agree that IKO certification is fantastic, and there is never a substitute for a qualified instructor. (Certainly not RUclips) I would also like to point out that I have been self landing my kite like this for 7 years without an issue, and was shown it from a highly skilled kiter (also an instructor) that has been kiting since before kites had harnesses.
Flukes Kitesurfing, there are different points: a) you should imagine there are people just looking your video not so prone to read all comments (99% I could say) and it brings people to think this is a safe technique. b) this is NOT what "stronger winds" means. c) you should know keeping a kite by 2 lines can drive it to fly... d) you need to think about all unlucky possibilities, not what you did or what experimented until now. What do you do if something goes wrong and you have no Leash attached? you "just leave" the kite and do you think this cannot is a potential death bomb for all the rest of the world? it's not so evident for you? 😉
Hey NewKite, I actually agree with you 100%. The last thing we need are kites bouncing down the beach and you're right, that would be a real issue. I should have emphasized the fact that downwind must be completely clear. You will see from my video, after detaching, the worst case scenario for me, (if something completely unpredictable happened) is the kite would have either rested in the water or trees. I have clearly explained the process of leaving your leash attached and demonstrate the scenario of dropping the lines. Do you see an issue with that? Have you ever experienced, seen or heard of a Kite flying on the 2 FRONT lines? If you pull the 2 front lines, even above the bar when flying, the kite will drop from the sky as it would after the safety was released. I don't believe a kite can fly on the 2 front lines alone unless tangled and/or extremely strong winds (above 40 knots) I would be very interested to hear if you have experienced otherwise. The term "stronger winds" is to differentiate between another light wind option. None of these self landing methods should be used above 30 knots. There have been times when I have been stuck on a rocky shore, alone and in a tight an hazardous area. Understanding that this method was possible (not the ONLY way, but one of many self landing techniques I have practiced) saved me. One time, my safety leased had malfunctioned and could not be used. The other, the area was so tight with trees directly down wind, I would have been simply impossible to use the safety system. This video is not designed to replace the safest self landing technique (using your safety system as mentioned at 26 seconds) but simply to explain another way that people might need in a particular circumstance. I hope that makes sense, because, sometimes, things DO happen that you don't see coming, and without the use of the safety system in that moment, you still need to land the kite somehow... and to me, this works very well. Thanks for your insight. I do appreciate it as I am always looking for safer and better ways to kitesurf and I will make revisions to the video.
I have a 5 line kite and even when the wind is strong, when I start walking along the fifth line, the kite immediately loses power and is really easy to get. I heard that the line walk is difficult but with my 5 line kites it's very easy.
Hey Mick, In my experience, it is more dangerous not to understand this self landing method. However, always interested in feedback, what is it specifically that you find to be dangerous about it?
I mean you're right, it's good to know that this is possible - and thanks for producing this video. What might be particularly dangerous with this method: you drag your lines along and the beach might not be 100% sandy like yours and some stuff gets entangled in your lines. Then there is a gust and you let go off the lines, assuming it would be fine, but the safety might not work anymore because of the tangling. If alone in high winds like in your scenario - which seems to be rare anyway - pulling the release should be the way to go for the majority. Majority = kiting for 2 weeks per year. ;) Yet, I love this method if you attach the chicken loop to an anchor point. I would just hate if someone would refuse my help to land because he wants to practise this method next to me, but hey - I have to admit, that's not your problem at all. So thanks for the video and sorry for the discussions around it. ;)
Hey Mick, Yes, I agree. The sandy beach makes it a lot more predictable and safer. Any snag on the ground could easily apply tension to a line unexpectedly and or, as you say, create issues with the safety system if needed. Although not covered in the video, that is the whole reason I detach completely from the safety (providing no one is downwind) as then you can walk the lines without the bar dragging. of course that increases risk of dropping the kite and losing it completely, although that has never happened to me or even come close to happening. All of that said, I am totally aligned with what you have said. using the safety system or an anchor to self land is always preferred. This method should only be used in areas with noone around and when needed. This video is the most controversial I have made so far... But, I can't help but keep repeating to myself... in the absence of an anchor point, with a broken safety leash or a malfunctioning safety system... How the F*/K else do you get the kite on the ground by yourself in stronger winds.. And for that reason... While it isnt "text book" or the safest, I see it as a necessary method to know and understand and am very grateful i know it personally...as it has saved my ass twice now. Thanks for the comment mate and thanks for the explanation :).
You demonstrate this with a 14 meter cause the wind is super light, and it works in those conditions. You could have just self landed right and it would be down. You said you could do this if it's nuking, I call bs. Even if you got away with it, it's not safe. If it's super windy and you don't have any to attach to pull your safety. I can see the rope burns and kites flying down the beach already. 😖 Teaching people this is irresponsible, the ones listing to this bad advice are new kiters and they don't know better yet.
Hi Edmund, this is an alternative method, the safest way I know is this: ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html You say its irresponsible, however in my mind, a safe Kiter is one that understands the kite and has multiple methods of self landing and self rescue in their mind to account for all situations. Most of the time, people are taught only one way... "Here is the Good practice" and then, the beginners you are talking of, find themselves in a situation that "good practice" doesn't work. This Video is all about an alternative way to self land your kite on the beach.
You need to get an instructor to show you how to do this properly :) you are nearly there, but you missed a couple of key points. There is no substitute for IKO certified instructors. Basically you can do what you did at 6m:24s but you can do that from the side of the wind window even in 40knots on your own. and you can do it how? thats right, just pull your front top line, how do you think your 6m:24s works - yep you guessed it.. the same top line. you don't have to let it go to actually land it like that. and if you go with an instructor he will show you how to land it from a height of 50degrees in the sky too.. effortlessly. well worth the $40 bucks.
Hi Hamish, Yes, here is no substitute for a qualified instructor taking you through the steps. This video however, is demonstrating an alternative self landing technique you may not be taught by an instructor. You will find many videos explaining the process as you describe of self-landing using your single front line and safety system (and I agree with you, if unsure, that method should always be used as covered at 26 seconds) Again, this Video is to share another way you might self-land. 6m24s is simply an example of what would happen if you accidentally dropped the lines while landing this way. Thanks for your comment
IKO my ass, thats not what its a good method in the high gusty winds... Pulling the front top line doesn't necessary land the kite and if the gust pick that kite...slack topline will (very most likely ) catch the bar and then you are in deadloop... as you are on the land might be to last thing you register...
nonsense. In high wind pulling on the top line will result in the kite catching wind from below and falling downwind. if you hold the line it will stop eventually. but this guy's method makes much more sense if you have no anchor for the chickenloop. I have seen many "certified IKO instructors" around the world and most of the time their knowledge level is a joke
ok Yes you are right skautik77 and Krzysztof. This video is the ONLY WAY, without anchor, to self land in high winds over 30knots. I tried the other top line self land method in 45knots, and it would not sit on the ground face down on its own, and it relaunched, fell backwards, and went skyward! good bye kite :) A better variant on this video, is to do the same thing, hold the front bottom line, unhook and let the 3 lines go slack, then just hold the bottom front line and let it sit on its back as you walk up that bottom front line. the kite sites upside in strong winds, and it can't go anywhere until you get to it. UPSIDE is best in high wind, you can even walk to the side to give it even less access to the wind :) I will take a video one day.
Hey Grumpy old man, you should never use this method if there are people downwind of you. You can check out our other videos for other self landing technique alternatives.
What you should have done when you had the kite on its wingtip is pull the bridal that is on top and it will set the kite down and completely depower it
Hey Littlecentaur, yes, thanks for the comment. I agree, that's great in lighter winds on a smooth surface. I find in stronger winds the kite can easily drift back, tumble or even relaunch leaving you holding onto a line with slack in it which is not good. I have 4 videos for self landing, this is just one method and is best used in less predictable conditions like a rocky shore filled with obstacles in winds high enough to unpredictably relaunch the kite and where you may not be able to use your safety system to land for whatever reason. Thanks :)
Hey Chris, yes, as a general rule, you shouldn't grab the lines... But please tell me this... You're kiting, the wind is good, blowing 25 knots, you're pumped and a good kiter that is well prepared. You have friends with you, and have setup an anchor to self-land if needed. You're out on the water in waves recovering your board after laying down a sick move, just as you reach your board you see the next wave is about to break right on you, so you quickly and forcefully dive your kite and water launch just as you normally do to get up and out of the way. Unfortunately, this time, your leash was tucked under your board and fin, so as you extend you legs, it breaks the leash housing. The leash is now no longer attached to the kite and dangling. Not the end of the world, but you see it, and decide to go in and fix that up, however, you have a fall on the way in. Nothing major, but it injured you in some way. Your board gets taken by another wave, and now, you really need to go in... You body drag back to shore, but its cross shore conditions and by this time, you are way down wind, far away from your friends and self land anchor you set up. There is no one around. You can't walk back up wind, (this could be for any reason injured or not) and your safety system isn't going to work. (This could also be for any given reason) the wind is above 20knts so you can't "dump"the kite.... You're standing there, kite in the air, how do you get it on the ground? The blanket statement of dont touch the lines is true... But also stops an understanding of what people CAN do if they NEED to. Sometimes, this is the safest method to use. While it sounds like you saw a pretty horrific accident. I don't believe they were landing their kite like this at the time. If you have an issue with your kite while landing this way. you let go. That's all That said, this is not meant to be an everyday self landing technique. It is just 1 of the 4 methods I use personally and has its place in my opinion. I would be very interested to hear though, if you have a better way to self land your kite with a malfunctioning safety system in an undesirable situation.
There is no way I would use this technique in 25 knots. I do not think this is a safe technique at all. I would rather try to totally release my kite in the water or totally release it infront of something that would stop it like a building or sea wall or tree.
Ok, well, with all the amount of times and the ease at which i have done this, I certainly disagree with you. In my opinion, knowing when you can grab your lines might save you one day. Thanks for your input all the same.
We cover a number of ways to self land, this video is useful in a number of situations and important to be aware of and understand should your safety leash snaps during your session :) which has happened to me before haha.
Late to the sesh, but this nonsense will get you kicked off the beach. Don't even consider it. BTW, this is no disrespect, just looking out for everyone.
Thanks Anita, agree this is not the go-to method for self landing and our other videos show BETTER methods for day to day use, that said, in my opinion this is still an important method to understand if and when needed. If used correctly, you won't get kicked off the beach, because, there wouldn't be other people on the beach to kick you off, otherwise you wouldn't have used it :)
Today I was faced with either not kiting or learning to self launch and land . I searched on here your videos came up and the rest is history it went perfect. Thanks a lot for your time and skill !! Made my day amazing!!!
Nice glad it helped mate!
Thanks so much - You have a very clear and motivating teaching style. I did not know this tecnique was actually possible.. - Im learning loads of confidence building stuff from your instructional, even after kitesurfing for 18 years.
Being near the lines be careful: Just to make people super aware of a mistake I made when that nearly cost me big time: NEVER to walk over or in between the lines of any downed kite that has the slightest potential to launch itself from the beach especially in strong winds. I always over weight park kites, but I learned an almost neck-breaking lesson where the lines and bar grabbed me and powered up during a differnet set of circumstances due to a series of compounded errors.
The mistake I made, was running in-between the lines towards my downed, beached kite that had been quickly grabbed by my kite buddy who was also flying his kite at 12 o'clock. (bad bad but many do it it) This was what I thought was a helping hand after my failed self launch in 22 knots+ on a narrow, remote beach.
After he grabbed it, I dropped my bar, kept safety leash on, and ran towards the kite to take it from him. but…...He then accidentally let go as got slightly jerked by his own kite.
My kite rolled and re-launched very fast and accelerated over a 15 foot high impacted sand dune wall right through the power zone. Air accelerating over the dune amped the wind speed.
I felt some lines catch around my legs and back , and then wham….within less than half a second, I had superman'd 20 feet without touching the ground, and hit head and shoulder first into this very hard wind impacted sand dune wall. aghhhhhhhhhahahhaha All buddies came in off the water to see be crumpled body and me groaning in pain.
Luckily 1...it was cross-on shore so I hit the wall at an angle with a shoulder plus head rather than head alone and smeared off some energy.
Luckily 2 the kite detached and then sank over the dune into some grass ( I used to have nightmares about being dragged across Tiree, a remote Scottish island covered in barbed wire and stone walls).
I was beat up, hurting, maybe a cracked rib or two and shocked. kite punctured on sharp plants, but managed to kite (seat harness ) more or less okay a few days later
After recollection and analysis plus a few bad dreams: I concluded the following compounded mistakes which seem obvious now.
1 was kiting a narrow beach with big hard sand dune wall, that me and my buddies looked over due to epic blue clear water and waves. It would have been safer at low tide, but I was on holiday and kiting non stop and exploring new beaches. Silly.
2 Attempting to self launch in such a tight spot with a major obstacle . I thought the sand dune was soft but it was rock hard and wind and wave impacted with small stones.
3 Not walking around enough to get the downed kite out the central power zone,
4 My friend grabbing my the kite to steady it whilst he had his own kite at 12 o'clock,. I should have pulled the safety in this tight beach location. I guess I was worried about by kite blowing over this big dune so was grateful for his 'let me hold it' gesture.
Mistake 4 was then me running between the lines , and him not being in the position to guarantee he could hold it for long.
Good points that saved me, A) wearing a helmet, B) Fat squidgy impact vest, C) Cross on-shore not on-shore gave me a glancing impact. D) I had pulled in the de-power strap as I always so when launching and landing this helped the force, but the bar of course powered up the kite as it caught around my body.
So my Tip is : Only walk your lines when you are really sure your kite is super weighted down, face down and facing the wind direction. I will never run go between lines of a kite again when it is being landed, I still love kitesurfing of course!! Dear Flukes , it was great to see you walking well to the side of the lines in your video . Sorry to waffle on, but thought I would share my kitemare to keep folks safe .
Thanks Stephen! Glad you have found the videos helpful . Thanks fro sharing your experience mate, always good to get a perspective like that and glad you are ok.
Stephen Courtney thx for your nightmare story.. this will wake up me and a lot of people who thinking to easy about self landing a kite!... i’ll never ever walk in between my lines again!!!! 👍👊
And Flukes thx for show me the right way to do it .. learning a lot from you 👊
As they do on support groups:
Thanks for sharing !!!!
Good you are ok!
Regards !
Had a kitemare today, had to try my first ever self landing in 20+ knots, botched it badly, and to make matters worse, my safety misfired and locked up with full power. Soo thankful that the kite somehow settled quickly and I was able to unhook but it could have been very very bad; it was starting to death loop toward the rocks. Found out that there was a knot in my safety line so there was no chance of it firing. Regardless, should have reviewed this and practiced in low wind before I tried it for real, will use this technique from now on. Always check your gear!. Love your stuff Luke!
Also, the humming at the end was very soothing lol :D
Hey Marty, woah sounds hectic mate! Also checkout our video "self landing everyone needs to know" as that one will get you out of trouble in almost any situation (as long as the safety is still working :) This video here, is my least used self landing technique. Stay safe out there mate!
Super helpful, used this technique the other day. It was NUKING on my 7m, and nobody around to help land the kite.
After a couple sketchy self-land attempts, THIS video came to mind.
Worked perfectly and felt super safe. Thank you !!
Awesome! great to hear mate.
Very practical technique that I tried out yesterday. You really feel the power of the kite as you get closer holding the center lines, but I felt safe and in control the whole time. Thanks Luke!
Jeffery Gibson nice one mate!
I had the same, what worked for me is if you pull only the lower center line, so the kite has no more power :)
I would also recommend walking 20-40 degrees upwind right after you grab centerlines. Kite will end up laying steady on its back with its ends up downwind from you . Very stable position for the kite without generating any energy. Using this technique for years with no issues
Nice! Thanks for the insight :)
PLEASE READ!!!!! This video demonstrates an alternative self landing technique for ADVANCED kiters ONLY that should be used at your discretion and with good judgment.
Please also watch this video for a SAFE all level self land technique ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html
Safety is always the priority. If ever in doubt, use your safety system to land your kite ALWAYS.
Self landing is a great skill to have and understanding a variety of self landing techniques is in my mind essential. That way, no matter what the conditions or location, if needed, you can safely self land the kite.
You should, however avoid self landing wherever possible, particularly in strong (25 knots and above) and gusty conditions. (It is always better to have a qualified kitesurfer help you land)
This video demonstrates a method I use when all of the following are present.
1. There is no one around to help me land
2. The beach is clear of obstacles or people
3. I fairly assessed the conditions and environment and know I can comfortably and safely hold the lines, and walk to the kite
Remember to practice in light winds until you are very comfortable with this method before using it for real. Keep yourself and others safe at all times
VERY IMPORTANT POINTER::::::: You got to make sure that line tension remains the same through the entire process. Also, ensure that the kite does not move away from you while you are approaching the kite, it must stay in the same spot!!!!!!! If you give it a bit of a slack --- BOOM! Kite will drift downwind and roll into the power Zone. Pretty cool method though! Be safe :)
Thanks Kitesurfing 101. A good reminder to monitor line tension while walking toward the kite. Cheers
Good techniques i use them all the time when I'm kiting alone.
Thats very clear will try that, I do worry when I land and there is no help that it will drift downwind and relaunch but when you did that demo there was no jolt like I expected. cool .
Hey Chris, yes please let me know how it works for you. Remember to practice in light winds and also take a look at my there videos for different self land techniques :)
I've been using this technique for years and it is essentially the same as using a self landing line attached to a fixed object - you are the palm tree and slowly but steadily move towards the kite. Not as clear from the video is that you have the added advantage of being able to walk upwind as much as you want as you walk towards the kite so it essentially becomes a front line flagging of the kite. It works well in high winds. Of course it's better to have someone catch your kite, but I prefer this over using a fixed object because you can move upwind and depower the kite. Be careful if using gloves though. The only thing I don't like is that the bar ends up getting sand all over it.
Thanks Doron, yes, totally agree. Glad to hear from someone else who uses this method. Like you say, I didn't really cover how easy it it to flag the kite once you have the lines, just a quick run upwind holding one line and the kite flags. Cheers!
Hey Luke, thanks so much for your highly useful tutorials - nicely explained!🙏
For sure Till! glad they have helped
You are awesome !. And showing us how calm and focus you practice kitesurf, encourage us to take it easy and learn from THE MASTER !!!!!
THANKS !!!!!!
It's our pleasure!
wow flukes. I feel sorry for you. Haters gonna hate i suppose. Put me in the column of those who truly appreciate your video. I have been kiting 4 years and self launching ( with anchor ) 90% of the time. Good to know there are other options out there.
Legend cheers mate :)
yes, that' demonstration is well executed, BUT not a safe method for most of people who are watching YT videos in order to learn something new. Good method, but too risky. And when I say risky, I mean that it doesn't forgive mistakes. Either you're gonna destroy the kite, or rip your hands on the lines if there's a sudden gust. You are making great videos, keep up, cheers!
Great video, its the first time i've seen someone else use this technique. I've done this many times before but I prefer a similar method where you do as you have done, walk up the centre lines a little and harshly tug on the line on the top (left line if kite on the right, right line if kite on the left). After the tug continue to pull in and walk up that line that you've tugged and the kite "flags out" into a safely landed position. I always leave my leash on and make sure i've unhooked in case it goes wrong you just let go of everything. You can see this technique in practice at the end of my Druridge bay video on my channel.
Hey Cameron, Great and yes I like the sound of that, I will come and check it out on your channel! I will also put out a couple of different self landing videos... I think you are right about the safety leash...as you can see, where I am there is nothing to much that can go wrong if I drop the kite (apart from the fact it ends up in the trees) but with any risk of people downwind it's SUPER important to have that attached.
Hey Luke, can you do this same video, but just holding 1 front bottom line with the kite upside down. 1) site kite on the ground 2) unhook the chicken loop 3) grab the bottom front line only, throw the other 3 lines forward. 4) walk up the line. with the kite sitting on its back.
this kind of happened to me the other day In a fresh and gusty west wind had no other choice safety failed haha but walked up the middle lines got close enough to pull it over not ideal at all
I really appreciate your videos. Super clear. I'm new to the sport and am wondering why you hold two lines not just one...it would flag out when you approach it with less tension and risk of rope injury etc. Thanks!
Hey Adam, thanks mate, yeah i only actually do this one in very specific situation (like over rocks etc where i dont want the kite to roll around) but in general, if its clear and open, just fire the safety and avoid holding the lines at all. You have it right too though, you can just grab one line and hold it and the kite will settle. It might just roill around a bit more, hence better to just release the safety. Thanks!
Used this method today in light winds (10-12 kts) - worked perfectly. Thank you for the video and caveats - I’ll take those on board for sure.
Could one use this method in reverse to self-launch in relatively light winds? I’m thinking unhooked and walking the lines in advance of course
Awesome! Thanks for letting me know. I wouldn't do it in reverse. This method is kind of my last resort land only used whne i really need it. to launch I would be inclined to setup an anchor if its rough terrain or use the drag method on sand. Hope that helps :)
Good video. Why don't you just hold top front line and walk slightly upwind and kite will lay down?
Hey, yeah, you can do that for sure. Walking to the kite is mainly if there is something stopping you from doing that like uneven ground, snags for the lines etc, so that the kite might do something unexpected if you move upwind. This way it sits there waiting on the wingtip. As you discribe works well if you have the space for it :) I also have some other self land method videos if you want to check them out for some other options too. Thanks!
thanks for your efforts, I practised it and it worked great. I'm happy to have this as an option if needed. I'm from Canada and never kite alone but I'm travelling in New Zealand and lots of solo kiting down here, so thank you.
Great to hear Thechadbba, Thanks for letting me know. This is a helpful landing technique for those rocky areas so it should help. take a look at our other videos for self landing. The anchor especially is a good one for harder terrain.
why not pull on the lower middle line until it flips on its back just in case a gust or strong winds hit it doesn't fly away...
wouldn't that be safer for you and the people in the beach?
HI Ziad, The simple answer is yes, you should always do what you believe to be safe in all circumstances. This method should NOT be used if there are people down wind of you on the beach.
You may however find yourself in a position one day where you can not safely use a single line, self land. this "resting kite" really helps in those moments. this is only one method out of many self land techniques that should be practiced so you are always prepared in any circumstance :)
Well done! Simple, easy, and a good bailout if you need it.
Thanks David! I hope it helped! yeah, like I said... I've never had to let go of the lines yet... but sometimes it's good to have that option just in case.
Thanks for the lesson mate.
Such a great video. Love them all and recommend them to anyone who is interested in the sport :)
Perfect! We appreciate it! :)
Another great video, it looks so easy, if you ever come to Noosa let me know I’d love to chat with you for a couple of minutes
Luke the Kite Professor!
Lol :)
Thanks guys. Awesome video as always!
Could this be done by just grabbing one of the centre lines (the top one)? I'm interested to know why or why not :)
You can land your kite grabbing the top center, we have another video for that but there are a couple of small things to consider. Go and check that one out and also, keep an eye out for our new free self landing and launching course.
Awesome mate !! Thanks a lot 🙏🏼🍻
No problem 👍
Great video bro
Another excellent video!
Thanks mate
Good video, true that it is not the ideal way. I do see that you are walking downwind of your lines at 06:45 :-)
Hey Nicolas, Exactly, its not the textbook way but a good technique to have in the back of your mind if and when needed. 645 my kite is directly downwind, so I am walking downwind beside my lines, not downwind of them :)
Hehe :-) Still a good video... i disagree on the ones commenting on you. You inform people about how to do it and what the risks are. Let's say you would make a video crying out: this is the IDEAL way on how to land on your own. That would be incorrect... but instead you describe the risks. And give a good demonstration in strong winds. Keep up the good work
Thanks Nicolas! I appreciate that! That is the exact message I am trying to get across is those replies... :)
Hi you make it look easy can you to. That with the high V. Set up?
Would the final method work the same with a short leash or would you run the risk of getting lines tangled up with your legs?
Hey there, nice video! Have you done that with a kite which has a 5th line? You would probably just hold onto the one center line then?
Hey Deleh, to be honest I have not done this with a 5 line kite and would hesitate giving specific advice., however, one of the nice things about the 5th line is ease of self landing and the simplicity of how the kite flags. I would be more inclined to focus on other methods that use the 5th line to land. That said, to attempt this self land technique, you would likely need to hold all 3 front lines to keep the kite stable on the wing tip. Thanks :)
its allot better to connect you safety at the front of your harness. if you get pulled now by your safety then you have a big problem since you will be flying around backwards
Hey Egbert, Yes, if you are still getting pulled by your safety leash... You have a big problem regardless!!! This harness has a secondary "breakaway" leash connection across the back of the harness. :)
Flukes Kitesurfing, it will be very hard to release that secondary release thing while being dragged around backwards. Seen somebody very close to death because of this, believe me this can safe your life.
Hi Egbert, yes, while i have not had any issues, I am glad you have brought it up as its worth certainly considering. Safety should always be a priority. If for any reason you are not comfortable with the position of your safely line attachment, or your ability to immediately break away easily and quickly in ANY emergency situation, then you should either practice, or re position the leash accordingly.
Interesting. So. Given all of the talk about using short leashes (unless you are doing manoeuvres that require a long leash) wouldnt it work better if you had an extra short leash attached to your harness then you are not dragging the bar through the sand.
Hey Brett, yes perhaps, The leash size I use is pretty standard. but its really upto you. Thanks
If you dont attach your safety line 7:45 you risk loosing your kite if something happens when you are walking to retrieve it
Hey Luis, Exactly, That's 100% correct. If you are at all worried about dropping your lines, you should keep your safety leash attached.
Hey mate, I’ve doing this self landing techniques many times with strong winds with my duotone trust bar. I changed to click bar and yesterday I tried to do it and when I picked the center lines, the kite goes up so I couldn’t do it. Do you know why does it happen?
Hey mate , might just be the turning of the kite. Some kites are more stable on the wingtip than others. I'd recommend using one of the other self landing techniques if it doesn't feel stable :)
Very helpful, thanks mate!
No problem 👍
Very very nice!
nice and clean helpful video! Thank you
Thanks for this movie. It will help a lot of people. Can you do the same if there is no beach? Land it in the water because there are to many rocks or shells on the beach?
Hey Hans, the simple answer is no. i would not do this over the water. the kite has a tenancy to move too much and will likely roll. landing over areas covered with objects is potentially very dangerous. In that situation i prefer to use an anchor. I take my leash off and wrap it around a log/tree/post and self land that way.this means you are not attached to the kite if a line snags and something goes wrong. I don't have a video for this but hopefully soon
No kites were hurt in the making of this video.
Or were they...? :)
Thanks Fluke
Haha no, this is actually really low impact on the kite.
What song was it you were singing at the end? 😜
Excellent!
Why don’t you just pull on the top center line so that the kite drops with the leading edge facing upwind? Seems like a really big risk to walk up the lines when you can just drop it as such.
Yes you can do that way too, we have a video for pulling the center line :) best to only do that in lighter winds. Checkout our other videos for other methods. This one is only a last resort type move
That looks quite dangerous. While you walk up to it, things could go wrong. Isn't it a lot easier to just pull the middle lines once you have the leading edge on the ground? The kite will fall with the top side facing the wind and it's not going to relaunch while you walk up to it and secure it.
Hi Amit, depending on the circumstances, sometimes I find this is the safest way to land. Some times I simply can't afford to have the kite bouncing around and for that reason, having the kite parked there works perfectly.
Grabbing the front lines to get the leading edge on the ground works great, but with my kite, really only works in lighter winds. It can also come with its challenges. If a gust hits the kite as you pull, the slack in the lines can create a situation where if you need to let go, the lines can potentially catch on the harness / bar and throw the kite onto a deathloop.
The safest method is probably this
ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html
But in my opinion, it's important to have a few different ways to self land if needed.
It sounds like the way you do it works great for you, so that's perfect :)
This is really just showing a couple of other ways to land the kite that may suit in other situations.
Thanks
I have an idea I have been trying lately, and that is unhook the safety leash too, and just leave the bar back where you started. so if it does launch in a gust, it doesn't matter about death loop. yes you will loose the kite, but better than your life. and the safety line doesn't help in that situation anyway, because the shock load will snap the line anyway.
Thank you for this video.
Love your clear and crisp video. I want to ask you this since I am learning kitesurfing. Is it true that the kite only fly when C shape down without (w/o) pulling back lines ? When flying it side way, 3 or 9 oclock, since it is C shape, lift is essentially zero when no back lines pulled or if they are pulled equally ? Is that how and the reason why you seemed to let the gravity pull the kite down slowly when flying it side way ?
And I guess pulling the bottom back line would help bring it down faster (and crash it) ?
Where is that strong wind?
I am sorry to say but it could not do it with my 9 meter 2017 Cabrinha FX. The tension on the lines is so strong that you can not walk to the kite. I landed the kite like in the movie, did the same routine. When i walked to the kite after 3 meter i had to walk back because i was afraid that i could not hold the lines anymore and i would had to let go of the lines and kite. My kite was also bouncing on the beach because it wanted to get in the air again. When i tried it i had gloves on, without the gloves i could not even hold it the 3 meters because of the tension on the lines. the wind was around 26 knots.
Hey Hans, Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it. A couple of quick things. First, trying this with your 9M in 26 knots is NOT recommended. That would be at the TOP of the wind range for this method and understandably felt difficult to hold. As mentioned at the end of the video, please practice this in light wind several times to get a feel for it. This way you would see how it works, become comfortable, and then, can more safely determine whether it suits the current conditions.
Keeping the safety attached means you can let go if needed.
How much your kite moves around will be determined by kite design, wind strength and quality.
You may also like this video explaining a simple way to self land.
ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html
As I have mentioned, this particular video is an alternate method, and isn't intended to be the only way to land, rather ONE way you know how to land if needed. Practicing in light winds will give you a better feel for it. Thanks, Luke
Hans van der Toorn
Don't feel bad, it didn't work because it was actually windy. He made this video with a 14 when the wind was dead. Bad advice here, beware of the RUclips professor ☠️
Ok , i know what you are saying but you video is starting with the text strong winds and say " when the wind is really blowing. Well really blowing starts at 25 knots in my opineon. ;-)
but i get your drift........
Hey Hans, yes, I did, and yes, its a little misleading sorry... "stronger winds" was intended to differentiate between the "light wind" self lad video I have. The fact is, it comes down to your comfort level holding the kite.... So, for me, i can do this method up to 30 Knots with my 8 , but when its that level or above, I am looking to use a different method. IE: my safety system or an anchor.
Edmund, , I appreciate all comments, however, what you are saying here is incorrect and insulting.
Suggesting I created this video using "smoke and mirrors" Pretending that this method works, when it doesn't... Is ridiculous. This WORKS. And even if you use it in light winds... It STILL WORKS. The end of this video I am on my 12 and its blowing around 22knots. I use this method up to 30 knots on my 8. I have used it MANY times without issue.
Fantastic tutorial, thanks for sharing....
Thanks Mark! Glad it helped
Try that in 30knots ... DONT
Okay wait…in your actual self landing you detached the safety. So we detach the safety when it’s juking? Maybe I saw it wrong. Gonna watch it again.
Hey, only if it makes sense to do so. It wouldn't make sense to do this on a crowded beach for instance. also, if you have space, just fire the safety and land that way. But if you cant fire the safety, and say the ground is rocks so you can drag the bar behind you, then yes, you can detach, move toward the kite slowly as seen in the video.
the humming at the end lol
haha
Not a safe technique to use if you are overpowered.
Yes Tom, ALL things become unsafe when you are overpowered...! Again, this video is to demonstrate an alternative self landing technique that should be used at your discretion and with good judgment. That said,, in the absence of an anchor, or someone to help land my kite, I personally prefer to land this way over activating the safety. (Even when I am juiced up) I have never had a problem and it is a great way to get the kite down for intermediate to advanced kiters. As always, do what feels safest... if you feel like you should use your safety...then you probably should.
Flukes Kitesurfing this is an easy alternative technique to let people die. Please consider what all us are trying to let you understand. 🙏
Hi Newkitezone, that is a very dramatic statement. Safety should always be first, no arguments there. It is actually my understanding of kite integrity and aerodynamics that give me the confidence to safely self land this way.
However, the use of the word "Die" simply cannot be ignored. For the sake of the people reading this and myself, can you please elaborate as to why you believe this self landing technique would result in near certain death, as opposed to another self land method? I would be interested to hear the difference and what specifically you think makes it unsafe.
I would like to point out that I agree that IKO certification is fantastic, and there is never a substitute for a qualified instructor. (Certainly not RUclips) I would also like to point out that I have been self landing my kite like this for 7 years without an issue, and was shown it from a highly skilled kiter (also an instructor) that has been kiting since before kites had harnesses.
Flukes Kitesurfing, there are different points: a) you should imagine there are people just looking your video not so prone to read all comments (99% I could say) and it brings people to think this is a safe technique. b) this is NOT what "stronger winds" means. c) you should know keeping a kite by 2 lines can drive it to fly... d) you need to think about all unlucky possibilities, not what you did or what experimented until now.
What do you do if something goes wrong and you have no Leash attached? you "just leave" the kite and do you think this cannot is a potential death bomb for all the rest of the world? it's not so evident for you? 😉
Hey NewKite, I actually agree with you 100%. The last thing we need are kites bouncing down the beach and you're right, that would be a real issue. I should have emphasized the fact that downwind must be completely clear. You will see from my video, after detaching, the worst case scenario for me, (if something completely unpredictable happened) is the kite would have either rested in the water or trees.
I have clearly explained the process of leaving your leash attached and demonstrate the scenario of dropping the lines. Do you see an issue with that?
Have you ever experienced, seen or heard of a Kite flying on the 2 FRONT lines?
If you pull the 2 front lines, even above the bar when flying, the kite will drop from the sky as it would after the safety was released. I don't believe a kite can fly on the 2 front lines alone unless tangled and/or extremely strong winds (above 40 knots)
I would be very interested to hear if you have experienced otherwise.
The term "stronger winds" is to differentiate between another light wind option.
None of these self landing methods should be used above 30 knots.
There have been times when I have been stuck on a rocky shore, alone and in a tight an hazardous area. Understanding that this method was possible (not the ONLY way, but one of many self landing techniques I have practiced) saved me.
One time, my safety leased had malfunctioned and could not be used.
The other, the area was so tight with trees directly down wind, I would have been simply impossible to use the safety system.
This video is not designed to replace the safest self landing technique (using your safety system as mentioned at 26 seconds) but simply to explain another way that people might need in a particular circumstance.
I hope that makes sense, because, sometimes, things DO happen that you don't see coming, and without the use of the safety system in that moment, you still need to land the kite somehow... and to me, this works very well.
Thanks for your insight. I do appreciate it as I am always looking for safer and better ways to kitesurf and I will make revisions to the video.
Wrapping hand in lines ends with hospital 🤠
yes sure will!
Thanks for your tips!!
No probelm Dan, glad you have found them helpful
Thank you so much!
Блять! Парень, ты гений. Спасибо)
I have a 5 line kite and even when the wind is strong, when I start walking along the fifth line, the kite immediately loses power and is really easy to get.
I heard that the line walk is difficult but with my 5 line kites it's very easy.
Yeah the 5th line bars do have that advantage for sure :)
I’m not sure all kites balance so well on their front lines?
Hello,
dope movie!
Have a nice day :o)
OMG. most dangerous method I've seen so far.
Hey Mick, In my experience, it is more dangerous not to understand this self landing method. However, always interested in feedback, what is it specifically that you find to be dangerous about it?
I mean you're right, it's good to know that this is possible - and thanks for producing this video. What might be particularly dangerous with this method: you drag your lines along and the beach might not be 100% sandy like yours and some stuff gets entangled in your lines. Then there is a gust and you let go off the lines, assuming it would be fine, but the safety might not work anymore because of the tangling. If alone in high winds like in your scenario - which seems to be rare anyway - pulling the release should be the way to go for the majority. Majority = kiting for 2 weeks per year. ;) Yet, I love this method if you attach the chicken loop to an anchor point. I would just hate if someone would refuse my help to land because he wants to practise this method next to me, but hey - I have to admit, that's not your problem at all. So thanks for the video and sorry for the discussions around it. ;)
Hey Mick, Yes, I agree. The sandy beach makes it a lot more predictable and safer. Any snag on the ground could easily apply tension to a line unexpectedly and or, as you say, create issues with the safety system if needed. Although not covered in the video, that is the whole reason I detach completely from the safety (providing no one is downwind) as then you can walk the lines without the bar dragging. of course that increases risk of dropping the kite and losing it completely, although that has never happened to me or even come close to happening.
All of that said, I am totally aligned with what you have said. using the safety system or an anchor to self land is always preferred. This method should only be used in areas with noone around and when needed.
This video is the most controversial I have made so far...
But, I can't help but keep repeating to myself... in the absence of an anchor point, with a broken safety leash or a malfunctioning safety system... How the F*/K else do you get the kite on the ground by yourself in stronger winds.. And for that reason... While it isnt "text book" or the safest, I see it as a necessary method to know and understand and am very grateful i know it personally...as it has saved my ass twice now. Thanks for the comment mate and thanks for the explanation :).
thanks for sharing your experience! It makes perfect sense for an emergency after all. Especially the detaching of the safety.
You demonstrate this with a 14 meter cause the wind is super light, and it works in those conditions.
You could have just self landed right and it would be down.
You said you could do this if it's nuking, I call bs. Even if you got away with it, it's not safe. If it's super windy and you don't have any to attach to pull your safety.
I can see the rope burns and kites flying down the beach already. 😖
Teaching people this is irresponsible, the ones listing to this bad advice are new kiters and they don't know better yet.
Hi Edmund, this is an alternative method, the safest way I know is this: ruclips.net/video/jD6VY51jpSA/видео.html
You say its irresponsible, however in my mind, a safe Kiter is one that understands the kite and has multiple methods of self landing and self rescue in their mind to account for all situations. Most of the time, people are taught only one way... "Here is the Good practice" and then, the beginners you are talking of, find themselves in a situation that "good practice" doesn't work. This Video is all about an alternative way to self land your kite on the beach.
cool video, thanks, but your singing haha
hahaha! Just a little something extra
You need to get an instructor to show you how to do this properly :) you are nearly there, but you missed a couple of key points. There is no substitute for IKO certified instructors. Basically you can do what you did at 6m:24s but you can do that from the side of the wind window even in 40knots on your own. and you can do it how? thats right, just pull your front top line, how do you think your 6m:24s works - yep you guessed it.. the same top line. you don't have to let it go to actually land it like that. and if you go with an instructor he will show you how to land it from a height of 50degrees in the sky too.. effortlessly. well worth the $40 bucks.
Hi Hamish, Yes, here is no substitute for a qualified instructor taking you through the steps. This video however, is demonstrating an alternative self landing technique you may not be taught by an instructor. You will find many videos explaining the process as you describe of self-landing using your single front line and safety system (and I agree with you, if unsure, that method should always be used as covered at 26 seconds) Again, this Video is to share another way you might self-land. 6m24s is simply an example of what would happen if you accidentally dropped the lines while landing this way. Thanks for your comment
IKO my ass, thats not what its a good method in the high gusty winds... Pulling the front top line doesn't necessary land the kite and if the gust pick that kite...slack topline will (very most likely ) catch the bar and then you are in deadloop... as you are on the land might be to last thing you register...
nonsense. In high wind pulling on the top line will result in the kite catching wind from below and falling downwind. if you hold the line it will stop eventually. but this guy's method makes much more sense if you have no anchor for the chickenloop. I have seen many "certified IKO instructors" around the world and most of the time their knowledge level is a joke
ok Yes you are right skautik77 and Krzysztof. This video is the ONLY WAY, without anchor, to self land in high winds over 30knots. I tried the other top line self land method in 45knots, and it would not sit on the ground face down on its own, and it relaunched, fell backwards, and went skyward! good bye kite :) A better variant on this video, is to do the same thing, hold the front bottom line, unhook and let the 3 lines go slack, then just hold the bottom front line and let it sit on its back as you walk up that bottom front line. the kite sites upside in strong winds, and it can't go anywhere until you get to it. UPSIDE is best in high wind, you can even walk to the side to give it even less access to the wind :) I will take a video one day.
So you need an airport to land the damn thing. What about other beach users. Garrotted by your lines?
Hey Grumpy old man, you should never use this method if there are people downwind of you. You can check out our other videos for other self landing technique alternatives.
I would never walk up the line with my palm facing up, it's extremely wrong and dangerous.
HI Sicily, please elaborate, I would be interested to hear why having your palm facing up is dangerous. Thanks
If you have to let go the line for any reason the line tension will cut your hand. With palm facing down line will just fall away.
What you should have done when you had the kite on its wingtip is pull the bridal that is on top and it will set the kite down and completely depower it
Hey Littlecentaur, yes, thanks for the comment. I agree, that's great in lighter winds on a smooth surface. I find in stronger winds the kite can easily drift back, tumble or even relaunch leaving you holding onto a line with slack in it which is not good. I have 4 videos for self landing, this is just one method and is best used in less predictable conditions like a rocky shore filled with obstacles in winds high enough to unpredictably relaunch the kite and where you may not be able to use your safety system to land for whatever reason. Thanks :)
All this 'walks' has to be done with gloves at least on the hands. Otherwise there is a good chance to have a skin burn on the hands.
I would never use this technique. I have seen someones finger stripped to the bone by a kite line. BE VERY CAREFUL IF YOU ARE TRYING THIS TECHNIQUE!
Hey Chris, yes, as a general rule, you shouldn't grab the lines... But please tell me this...
You're kiting, the wind is good, blowing 25 knots, you're pumped and a good kiter that is well prepared. You have friends with you, and have setup an anchor to self-land if needed. You're out on the water in waves recovering your board after laying down a sick move, just as you reach your board you see the next wave is about to break right on you, so you quickly and forcefully dive your kite and water launch just as you normally do to get up and out of the way. Unfortunately, this time, your leash was tucked under your board and fin, so as you extend you legs, it breaks the leash housing.
The leash is now no longer attached to the kite and dangling. Not the end of the world, but you see it, and decide to go in and fix that up, however, you have a fall on the way in. Nothing major, but it injured you in some way. Your board gets taken by another wave, and now, you really need to go in... You body drag back to shore, but its cross shore conditions and by this time, you are way down wind, far away from your friends and self land anchor you set up. There is no one around. You can't walk back up wind, (this could be for any reason injured or not) and your safety system isn't going to work. (This could also be for any given reason) the wind is above 20knts so you can't "dump"the kite.... You're standing there, kite in the air, how do you get it on the ground?
The blanket statement of dont touch the lines is true... But also stops an understanding of what people CAN do if they NEED to. Sometimes, this is the safest method to use.
While it sounds like you saw a pretty horrific accident. I don't believe they were landing their kite like this at the time. If you have an issue with your kite while landing this way. you let go. That's all
That said, this is not meant to be an everyday self landing technique. It is just 1 of the 4 methods I use personally and has its place in my opinion. I would be very interested to hear though, if you have a better way to self land your kite with a malfunctioning safety system in an undesirable situation.
There is no way I would use this technique in 25 knots. I do not think this is a safe technique at all. I would rather try to totally release my kite in the water or totally release it infront of something that would stop it like a building or sea wall or tree.
Ok, well, with all the amount of times and the ease at which i have done this, I certainly disagree with you. In my opinion, knowing when you can grab your lines might save you one day. Thanks for your input all the same.
Nah... Better to pull the safety if there is too much wind... You will learn the HARD WAY SUNSHINE
We cover a number of ways to self land, this video is useful in a number of situations and important to be aware of and understand should your safety leash snaps during your session :) which has happened to me before haha.
@@FlukesKitesurfing Fair call...
Late to the sesh, but this nonsense will get you kicked off the beach. Don't even consider it. BTW, this is no disrespect, just looking out for everyone.
Thanks Anita, agree this is not the go-to method for self landing and our other videos show BETTER methods for day to day use, that said, in my opinion this is still an important method to understand if and when needed. If used correctly, you won't get kicked off the beach, because, there wouldn't be other people on the beach to kick you off, otherwise you wouldn't have used it :)
Stall the kite and you’re done.