March 8th is International Women's Day, the perfect occasion to celebrate the incredible women making their mark in kitesurfing.
We want to celebrate them all, not just those who perform spectacular tricks or ride massive waves but also those who, with passion, dedication, and experience, are transforming this sport and inspiring future generations. Among them, the IKO-certified Instructors stand out for their excellence in teaching, helping more and more people face the sea with confidence and determination.
Women in Kiteboarding: A Rising Tide
Kitesurfing has always been an exciting and inclusive sport, and today, more than ever, women are embracing it, not only as riders but also as professional instructors, mentors, and leaders. The number of women enrolling in courses is rapidly growing, from beginners experiencing the thrill of their first session to elite athletes competing at the highest levels.
Currently, nearly 34,000 IKO-certified female kiters are on board! There are over 800 Instructors, more than 100 Assistants, more than 10 Coaches specializing in freeride, freestyle, wave riding, hydrofoil, and wing foil, 2 Assistant Trainers, and 1 Examiner.
Moreover, many women have become owners of IKO Centers worldwide, bringing a unique feminine perspective to the management and development of kiteboarding schools and proving that female leadership is a great driving force.
This growing presence shows that kitesurfing isn’t reserved for a select few; it’s open to anyone ready to embrace this sport's positive energy and freedom. Maybe now is the perfect time to start your kiteboarding journey with us.
Women’s Active Participation Is Redefining the Kiteboarding Industry
Women are emerging as true leaders in the kitesurfing industry. Today, nearly 30 women-owned IKO Centers operate globally, representing almost 8% of the total 400 IKO Centers, and their presence continues to grow.
These women go beyond managing their IKO Centers and teaching on the beach; they organize training camps and kite trips, creating spaces where beginners and professionals can grow together.
In competition, 2024 marked a historic moment when Francesca Maini, a rider for North Kiteboarding, won the prestigious Red Bull King of the Air, one of the most extreme and high-profile big air kiteboarding competitions, becoming the first woman to take home the victory. This achievement further highlights the growing presence of women in the sport.
Women are also pushing the limits in jumps; Angely Bouillot reached an impressive 32.6-meter jump with her Core kite, setting an outstanding record. Ava Segersten, a Slingshot Wing rider, jumped 8.8 meters in wing disciplines, showcasing women's skill in this emerging area.
In the GKA Kite World Tour, the premier international circuit for freestyle, wave, and big air kiteboarding, athletes like Capucine Delannoy and Bruna Kajiya, both sponsored by North Kiteboarding, continue to stand out with remarkable performances. In the GKA Hydrofoil Big Air, a competition that highlights high jumps and technical tricks using hydrofoil boards, Andrea Zust, a Duotone rider, has elevated her unique style, while Zara Hoogenraad, sponsored by Core, shines in GKA Twintip, a discipline that emphasizes powered tricks and massive airs, proving that women are competitive across all disciplines.
In Formula Kite, the hydrofoil racing format that made its Olympic debut in Paris 2024, female athletes showcased their readiness for the global stage. Riding with Ozone Kites, Ellie Aldridge impressed with exceptional performances. She made history by becoming the first athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in Formula Kite.
Additionally, women are making significant strides in WOO Sports competitions, a digital leaderboard that tracks and ranks riders based on their jump heights and distances. Angely Bouillot, riding with Core kite, reached 32.6 meters, while Ava Segersten, with her Slingshot wing, amazed with 8.8 meters, demonstrating the extraordinary heights women are achieving.
Women are bringing new challenges and achievements to the kiteboarding community.
The Unique Strengths of an IKO Instructor
Learning kiteboarding is a journey that combines technical skills, confidence, fun, and a deep connection with nature. IKO instructors excel at providing constant support and creating a motivating and safe environment where every step forward is celebrated. Their deep connection with nature will help you create an exciting, harmonious, and immersive experience. With their expertise, you'll master every step to becoming an excellent kiter while enjoying every moment of your progress with enthusiasm and fun.
Kitesurfing: A Sport Perfect for Women
Kitesurfing is often mistakenly seen as a sport that demands brute strength, but in reality, it’s based on technique, balance, and control, qualities in which women excel. Instead of relying on raw power, kiters use their core muscles, focus on precision, and develop fluidity in their movements. From the first lesson, women realize that technique and balance allow them to progress faster than physical strength.
With the evolution of the sport, more and more brands are designing equipment specifically for female riders, from harnesses to boards that enhance comfort and performance. This transformation is making kiteboarding even more accessible, proving that anyone, with determination and the right guidance, can master this sport.
Kiteboarding Unites Everyone
International Women's Day is a time to celebrate the progress and successes of women in kiteboarding and a reminder that this sport has no limits.
Kitesurfing is building vibrant communities worldwide in the IKO destinations and connecting riders through a shared passion for adventure, fun, and freedom. So, are you ready to take on the challenge?
Discover your nearest IKO Center and become part of a global community.
