Your Essential Winter Kiting Gear

[spvone]

...many kiters use DISH GLOVES.. and BRIGHT YELLOW might come in handy too.. if you know what I mean- L.M.G.

you are the second person who has recommended these. you mean the cheap regular dish washing gloves i have under my kitchen sink? i'd think they would make gripping the bar difficult. no?

[Greg]

Dish Gloves are super thin ,warmer, and provide great grip-
Sadly they die really fast once they get even slightly ripped-


The best gloves for kiting have a THIN PALM section and wind stop tops.

[lieutenantglorp]

Regular Dakine gloves with the finger tips cut off are my preference. I use them year round. Fingertip dexterity is needed on a regular basis when kiting, but many kite bars have rough textured rubber grip. Very effective and great for durability, but thrashes my hands. Fingerless gloves are the best of both worlds. Make sure to get a snug fit for best performance and get them wet before session for easier install. Getting the right size will keep your hands warm and skin after-burn free.

[CdoG]

i too like the dish washing gloves still have feel but block the wind chill
some days i were two pair

also like to keep my head covered with a hood....

[Greg]

you loose 30% or more of your body heat through your head-

[Greg]

you loose 30% or more of your body heat through your head-

[maxsteamer]

Hello Kiters,

Think (Layers) if you start with a thermal rash-guard under your wetsuit and a closed cell jacket over your wetsuit.you will be able to remove the jacket if need be.. I like gloves and booties and hood as it will increase your time on the water and may save your life if you get caught outside with a downed kite... there are alot of choices on gear these days.

[Yoda]

My winter set-up is...
Hyperflex Amp 5/4/3mm hooded suit
Gul Delta 2mm gloves (I just ordered & waiting for the NRS Maverick 2mm/Ti lined gloves)
Vibram Surge 2mm boots
I also use a Liquid Force Luxury Impact/Float Vest that adds some insulation value.

I used all of this winter gear today at Dillons and the last three days at Folsom and I was VERY warm. All in 50+- degree water & air (minus the wind chill factor). Actually Folsom's water temp is still 66 degrees, so the air has been colder.

I may get some warmer 3mm boots, but if I can find some 2mm, single layer neoprene (rubber outer layer) boots, I think that would be warmer than my current double layer boots.

[kitenaked]

What are the tricks to getting in and out of front zip AmpK 5-3. It is a 2 person job and a workout in itself!

[kief]

cool surfer trick for getting your suit on-
put a plastic bag over each foot,slide through effortlessly
free and easy.i use this year round
getting out,pour water down your legs,helps a little