A common question amongst kiteboarders who are trying to improve their riding and want to jump higher is… HOW? How does someone jump higher? What does it take? Bigger kite? Smaller board? Bigger kicker? Stronger wind? More speed? A Red Bull Energy Drink?
Let's say you had perfect board and kite technique the only way you will get to jump higher is by going faster. Speed is directly correlated with height and more speed you get - more lift you will have. Of course, you can add a “kicker” to help you boost higher though this is conditional. Whether you want to jump higher on flatter or wavier water- speed is the variable that must increase to increase height.
Now you might think if you use the biggest kite and ride in the strongest wind you will go the highest - this is first of all not a good idea as it is not safe and dangerous - secondly there is another element which is control. If you are not in control you won't be able to maintain and use proper technique to jump.
Riding in strong winds with equipment that allows you to be powered and be in control to get lots of speed will be your best bet to jumping higher. Using a kicker additionally to this will help you get even higher-
Currently, the highest jump ever recorded is by Nick Jacobsen at 28.6m with the WOO Sports device. Do you believe we will ever get higher than 30m or even 50m jumping?
