"We have been working with Martin Kirk and Kiteboarding School of Maui (KSM) since Martin began his business in 1999. I also have had the pleasure of a long term working relationship with Martin for many years now and aspire to continue to work with his company for many years to come."
Cary Ritt
Owner/Manager-Maui Vacation Advisors
Will I be riding on a board the first day?
At least half of our first time beginner students get to the board on the first day and attempt water starts and ride. Most students need 2-3 days of lessons to become competent and confident with the kite and do some riding on a board. Taking a few days of supervised lessons and having the proper equipment for all conditions will be less expensive than going out and buying the various sized kites one needs in the beginning. Remember, if you decide to purchase gear KSM will apply 30% of your lesson costs towards the purchase of a new current year kite.
Kiteboarding Questions
- What are the terms and names for kiteboarding tricks?
- Are bow kites better than other kite designs?
- Can I use the bow kite with a 5th line?
- What does the bridle on a bow kite do?
- How do the bow kites turn?
- Is the bow kite bridle system complicated?
- What should I look for so I know I have found a safe, quality school?
- What sets KSM apart from other Maui kiteboarding schools?
- How much experience do KSM instructors have?
- How long has KSM been in business?
- Is KSM insured?
- What does the IKO and PASA certification offer students?
- What does FAA have to do with kiteboarding on Maui?
- I already kiteboard. Can I rent kites?
- What can I do to prepare for my lesson ahead of time?
- My son and I would like to take a lesson together. Do we have to each take private lessons or can we take lessons with one instructor?
- What is the best time of day for lessons?
- Will I get on the water on the first day of lessons?
- Will I be riding on a board the first day?
- I have done some trainer kite flying and body draggng. Will I be able to take a class starting with the kiteboard on my first lesson?
- What sort of physical shape do I need to be in?
- How fast will I learn the sport?
- I am a windsurfer, is it hard to convert?
- How hard is it to learn how to kite?
- Is kiteboarding safe?
- When is the best time to come to Maui for lessons?
- Do I need to bring anything with me for the lesson?
- What equipment do I need to kitesurf?
- Will I need a wetsuit on Maui?
- How many kites do I need?
- What is the typical wind range of a kite?
- How big a kiteboard should I choose?
- How much does equipment cost?
- Do I need assistance to launch or land the kite?
- Can I relaunch the kite from the water?
- What is the wind window?
- What is the difference between kitesurfing, kiteboarding, and flysurfing?
- How did kiteboarding start?