Kiteboarding Injuries & Prevention Specialist
Kiteboarding accidents can be dangerous and even deadly. Because riders are harnessed by the power of the wind, there kiteboarders to take into consideration.
When you’re strapped to a kite, you should know what you’re doing. For example: have you learned to unhook when unexpected events like strong wind gusts happen?
There’s a lot going on while riding a kite. And when you progress and think you’ve mastered the art of kiteboarding, big airs end up in the hospital. It’s not inevitable, but it is part of the game.
Kiteboarders often fall off or crash into the water and collide with obstacles including rocks, boats, buildings, and other water sports enthusiasts.
Kiteboarding Injuries FAQ
What Are the Frequent Causes of Kiteboarding Injuries?
The most frequent causes of kiteboarding accidents are:
- Kite launch
- Loss of kite control
- Collision against obstacles and riders
- Crashes into the water
- Overconfidence
- Misinterpretation of the wind conditions
- Incorrect kite line installation
- Landing jumps and big airs
In 2016, the Department of Orthopedic and Trauma Surgery at Royal Perth Hospital published a study on kite injuries and concluded that the number of accidents in kiteboarding is comparable to those seen in recreational skiing.
Explore the most common mistakes in kiteboarding, learn how to avoid collisions between kiteboarders, and review the right of way rules in kiteboarding.
What Are the Most Common Kiteboarding Injuries?
Like windsurfing, surfing, and other extreme sports, kiteboarding has its share of common injuries. While some may be minor, others can require medical attention or even surgery.
Despite technological advances in equipment, many riders lack proper training. When faced with unstable weather conditions or overpowering winds, they can lose control of their kites, leading to serious injuries.
To prevent injuries, kiteboarders should recognize their limits, prepare physically and mentally before sessions, and use protective gear such as helmets and life jackets.
According to specialists, significant stress is placed on the musculoskeletal and physiological systems of kiteboarders. Common injuries include:
- Foot, ankle, and knee injuries: Often occur when the rider is thrown off the board or when the board twists under force from a landing or wave.
- Head injuries: Most occur in riders who do not wear helmets or use board leashes that result in the board snapping back into the head.
- Neck injuries: Range from whiplash to muscle strains.
- Back pain and spinal injuries: May result from pumping up the kite or from hard landings onshore.
- Upper body injuries: Can range from overuse injuries to conditions like epicondylosis (chronic tendinitis).
What Are Some Safety Tips for Kiteboarding?
Top Ten Safety Directives for Kiters:
- Always use a kite leash. The kite’s leash is the primary safety device.
- Know your safety systems and how to activate them in emergencies.
- Never fly over non-participants to prevent injuries.
- Never use a board leash, as it can snap the board back toward you.
- Do not jump over obstacles like rocks, piers, or boats.
- Look before you jump to avoid collisions.
- Keep a safe buffer distance from others and objects.
- Avoid bad weather conditions, including strong gusts, storms, or unpredictable winds.