PROGRESSION GUIDE
This progression guide is the suggested path from the perspective of experienced kitefoilers. Nailing the basics of each step takes time and purposeful practice, but you will find it easier to progress your foiling by following each step and not rushing through. Most people who attempt kitefoiling, have generally completed step 1 or 2, and try to skip straight through to step 4 or 5, missing crucial lessons learnt in steps 2, 3 and 4. This often results in a slower overall progression, increased risk of injury or breaking equipment! Be patient, follow the steps and always ask questions to other kiters and foilers. Chances are someone else has already learnt something you are not yet sure of, and can keep your progression satisfying and safe.
STEP 1
Learn to Kiteboard - start with a certified lesson from a Kiteboarding Australia certified school. For a list of schools, see here
Learn to stay upwind on a twin tip.
Upwind body drag
Able to relaunch
Basic transitions
Control kite in range of conditions
STEP 2
Master kite control and board handling
Manage basic jumps
Learn to tack on a surfboard/formula board
Lear to gybe on a surfboard/formula board
Light air relaunch
Competent self launch and land skills - if necessary
Edging and kite control with board
STEP 3
Learn to foil on freeride / learner gear
Achieve sustained level flight
Foiling upwind
Foiling downwind
Tacking, Gybing (touch down or foiling)
STEP 4
Master freeride foiling and foil kite skills
Understand and use foil kites
Use longer masts or faster wings
Change line lengths depending on conditions
Foil tacks and Foil gybes
Relaunching foil kites
Basic jumps and tricks
Start racing on freeride/intermediate gear
STEP 5
Racing Kitefoil and foil kites
Transfer skills to advanced foils/race foils
Understanding rules
Develop racing techniques and tactics
Advanced understanding of wind
Weed checks and big air
Send it!
There is many resources available on the web to assist with your development, here is a few links to some popular educational tools.