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Looking for a new kite? GlissEvolution offers kitesurf kites for freeride, wave, and big air from top brands like Duotone, F-ONE, Eleveight, Core, Airush, Ozone, Slingshot, Reedin, and Flysurfer!
En savoir plusKites: Choosing the Right Kite
Updated July 2026
The kite is the engine of your setup, generating all the traction you need to ride. Here at GlissEvolution, our team of passionate riders has been helping kiters in Pornichet since 2005. We'll help you choose the perfect kite based on your weight, local wind conditions, and riding style. This section is part of our kitesurf gear universe; for a complete setup, don't forget to check out our bars, boards, and harnesses.
How to Choose Your Kite Size
Kite surface area is measured in square meters, typically ranging from 5 to 17 m². Your ideal size depends on your weight and the wind strength: the lighter the wind or the heavier the rider, the larger the kite you'll need. The following are general guidelines for a versatile kite; if you're unsure, it's often better to go a little larger to make upwind riding easier.
| Rider weight | Light wind (12 to 18 knots) | Medium wind (18 to 25 knots) | Strong wind (25 knots and more) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 to 70 kg | 10 to 12 m² | 8 to 9 m² | 6 to 7 m² |
| 70 to 80 kg | 12 to 13 m² | 9 to 10 m² | 7 to 8 m² |
| 80 to 90 kg | 13 to 14 m² | 10 to 11 m² | 8 to 9 m² |
| 90 kg and more | 15 to 17 m² | 12 to 13 m² | 9 to 10 m² |
Most kiters own at least two kites to cover a wide wind range, such as a 9 m² and a 12 m². To help you plan your sessions, check out our guide to reading Windguru.
Different Types of Kites
The kite's profile determines its riding style. Delta or hybrid kites are the most versatile and forgiving, making them ideal for beginners and progressing in freeride. C-Shape kites are more technical, designed for freestyle and wakestyle, delivering explosive pop. Wave kites are light and maneuverable, perfect for surf. Big Air kites, on the other hand, prioritize power and hangtime for massive jumps.
Inflatable Strut Kite or Foil Kite?
The majority of kites are inflatable strut (leading edge) kites, which are easy to rig and relaunch from the water. Foil kites, without struts, inflate themselves with the wind. They are lighter and offer excellent performance in light wind, though they do require a bit more technique. Flysurfer is the leading specialist in foil kites. For riding in light wind, a large kite or a foil kite is often the best solution.
What's the Budget for a Kite?
As a general guide for 2026, excluding sales: expect to pay around 1.000 to 1.€100 for an entry-level kite, 1.200 to 1.€450 for mid-range, and from 1.€800 for high-end models. Our inspected second-hand kites offer a more affordable way to get equipped.
Kite Brands We Offer
- Duotone (Germany): A comprehensive range, from mid-range to top-tier high-end (SLS and D/LAB series).
- F-ONE (France): Versatile and wave kites, backed by French after-sales support.
- Eleveight: Excellent value for money, covering everything from freeride to big air.
- Core (Germany): High-end kites, renowned for their exceptional finish.
- Slingshot (USA): Robust and playful gear that delivers a fun ride.
- Flysurfer (Germany): The specialist in foil kites and light wind performance.
- Ozone and Reedin: High-performance kites, perfect for everything from freeride to strapless.
Second-hand kites
Looking to get geared up without breaking the bank? Our second-hand kitesurf section features kites individually inspected by our team before they go on sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kite size should I choose based on my weight and the wind?
Your ideal kite size depends on your weight and the wind strength. A rider weighing 75 to 85 kg often starts with a versatile kite between 10 and 12 m². For precise guidance, refer to our size guide.
How many kites do you need to ride well?
Two kites are usually enough to cover most conditions, for example, a 9 m² and a 12 m². You can then add to your quiver based on your local spots.
Strut kite or foil kite: what's the difference?
The strut kite is inflated with a pump and relaunches easily from the water: it's the most common choice. The foil kite inflates itself with the wind, is lighter, and excels in light wind, but it requires a bit more technique.
Which kite is best for light wind?
A large surface area (13 m² and up) or a foil kite, which is more efficient in light wind. The rider's weight also plays a role.
Which kite should you choose to start kitesurfing?
A versatile and forgiving Delta or hybrid kite, in a size appropriate for your weight and the wind. These are the easiest to steer and relaunch.
Is a kite and a wing the same thing?
No. The kite is connected to the rider by lines and a bar, whereas the wing is held by hand, without lines. They are two different sports.
Where can you buy a kite, new or second-hand?
At GlissEvolution, online or in our Pornichet store, you'll find new gear from all major brands and inspected second-hand kites, with expert advice and on-site testing.
Why choose GlissEvolution?
Twenty years of experience serving kiters, since 2005. In our Pornichet store, you can chat with passionate riders who are out on the water daily and even try out Front Wings before buying them, thanks to our Kitesurf and Wingfoil Test Center. New and inspected second-hand gear, workshop after-sales support and spare parts, free shipping on purchases over €100. For personalized advice, call us at 09 62 64 74 77.
Find Us
Visit GlissEvolution at 2c avenue du Gulfstream, 44380 Pornichet (Loire-Atlantique). You can reach us by phone at 09 62 64 74 77. We're open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm.
