Most riders on the water use an inflatable kite. Trainer kites and foil kites do different jobs. Start with the type you need.
Trainer KitesA smaller foil kite, usually with two or three lines, for practicing kite control before you ride.
Inflatable KitesThe standard kite for riding on the water, also called an LEI, which stands for leading edge inflatable. They typically have inflated struts and an inflated leading edge to hold the structure.
Foil and Traction KitesA larger kite, typically with four lines, that the wind holds in shape. It's designed to pull you on some sort of board and can excel in light wind, at high speeds and at higher upwind angles.
Showing 1–36 of 73 results
| Type | How it holds its shape | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Trainer | The wind holds its shape | Learning kite control. Usually smaller, with two or three lines |
| Inflatable (LEI) | Inflated struts and leading edge, with a bladder you pump up | Kiteboarding on the water |
| Foil and traction | The wind holds its shape | Getting pulled on a board. Usually larger, with four lines. Some are made for land sports like buggies and landboards, and others are specialty kites for water or snow |
Most kiteboarders ride an inflatable kite. Our inflatable kites page lists every inflatable kite we carry.
LEI stands for leading edge inflatable. It's another name for an inflatable kite, which typically has inflated struts and an inflated leading edge to hold its structure.
A trainer kite is technically a foil kite, and the wind holds the shape of both. A trainer is usually smaller and has two or three lines. A foil traction kite is typically larger, has four lines and is designed to pull you on some sort of board.
Not sure which kite fits? Call the shop at +1 (321) 252-KITE and tell us how you ride.
