Feel Like A Local…. Not A Tourist

Cape Town has become one of the world’s top watersports destinations. People come for windsurfing, kiteboardingsurfing and stand up paddle boarding and because it’s a great place to bring the family.

This site is your home base to check on:

Every year thousands of tourists return to the southern point of Africa to experience the coastline’s perfect waves, seasonal weather and first-class surf spots while affordable accommodationgearequipment hire and lessons and tours allow you to travel light and get kitted when you get here.

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kitesurfing tips

Kitesurfing Tips for Beginners

Kitesurfing is one of the world’s fastest growing extreme water sport. It involves a combination of several sports skills, including surfing, wakeboarding, and kiteflying, making it a complex yet rewarding sport. It is relatively easy to learn, but learning to kitesurf can be exciting, overwhelming and daunting at the same time. Here are some kitesurfing tips for beginners:

Watch Instructional Kitesurfing Videos

Watching instructional kitesurfing videos before kitesurf lessons will definitely help you learn faster. In addition to learning tricks, watching the videos beforehand allows you to get an idea of what kitesurfing is like, what to expect and how to physically and mentally prepare for the challenge.  However, it should be noted that these instructional videos are not intended to be as substitutes for professional kitesurfing lessons. They are merely intended to be supplementary sources in the learning process.

Don’t Go Kitesurfing by Yourself

Kitesurfing can be the most dangerous sport in the world if you don’t know what you’re doing. But it can also be the safest and most fun sport if you get a proper introduction and lessons. Simply put, find someone to teach you because learning kitesurfing requires the supervision of a qualified kitesurfing instructor who can demonstrate proper technique and help you understand all the other factors that relate to the activity. Sure, you can try to teach yourself to kitesurf but learning through an experienced and professional instructor is not only for your own safety but also for the safety of other innocent beachgoers and kitesurfers. Getting lessons from a qualified kitesurf instructor is undoubtedly the best way to progress quickly and safely.

kitesurfing tips for beginners

Use Appropriate Equipment

The kite system consists of a kite, flying lines, a control bar, and a kite harness. You also need a wetsuit, aqua shoes, a helmet and a life jacket for added safety. Using the right equipment in kitesurfing is essential to ensure your safety. A kite that is too big can be dangerous, too small can be frustrating and a kite which is too old will not have sufficient or up to date safety systems. However, it is not enough that you use the correct equipment. You should also know how to set up your kite correctly.

Know the Rules

Know the safety rules and regulations on and off the water. Knowing the rules and regulations does not only keep you safe, it also enables you to properly conduct yourself in front of your fellow kitesurfers. Also, learn the universal hand signals because they come in handy when you are in the water.

Practice, Practice, Practice

As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. You don’t become a good kitesurfer by simply using the right equipment and knowing the rules and regulations. Your progress depends on the most important factor— you. The more time you spend practicing, the faster you learn. Just remember that failed attempts are indispensable in the development of your skills as a kitesurfer.

Be Patient

It takes time to learn how to kitesurf proficiently. You won’t become a kitesurfer overnight. So, be patient as time is required to learn the sport. Though learning will vary according to the individual, most people pick it up after just a couple days of lessons. Just be patient and don’t give up, and you’ll get there before you even know it.

kitesurfing

Be Confident

Kitesurfing is not all about physical fitness. One factor that affects your learning is your confidence. If you are not confident enough that you will progress, you are most likely to fail. Having the confidence that you can accomplish something, even as challenging as kitesurfing, makes a great difference. So, gather all your confidence before you start your kitesurfing lessons in Cape Town.

Have Fun

The last but never the least kitesurfing tip for beginners is to have fun. When you have fun, learning to kitesurf won’t be a very difficult task. When you have fun, you won’t be able to think of quitting even if you will have a hard time progressing at first.

Kitesurfing Spots in Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the best kitesurfing destinations in the world because it has various kitesurfing spots along its coast. Whether you are a beginner or advanced kitesurfer, you will surely find the best kitesurfing spot suitable for your skills and preference. In fact, professionals from all over the globe come to Cape Town to train for kitesurfing events. Cape Town offers flat waters, downwind spots, small waves, high waves, warm and cool water. You just have to find the kitesurfing spot that works best for you. Here are the top kitesurfing spots in Cape Town:

Big Bay

Kitesurfing-Cape-Town

Big bay is just about a 30-minute drive from the city center. It is one of the most popular kitesurfing spots in Cape Town. It is a favorite not just for kitesurfers, but also bodyboarders, surfers, windsurfers, SUP, and anybody who wants to spend a day at the beach. This is why Big bay can become very crowded, especially on the summer weekends. Big bay is also known for its strong winds and is popular with surfers of any level. There are also flat sections between the waves and great waves which are sheltered by the rocks. In addition, Big Bay is full of life and friendly locals. It is full of restaurants, supermarkets, and kitesurfing shops.

Scarborough

Scarborough is a stunning beach which is just 45 minutes away from the city center. This beach is bordering the Cape Point Nature Reserve. It has beautiful views and low levels of congestion making it a great place to surf away from the crowds. With its strong winds, the beach is an ideal spot for flying kites and kitesurfing. Scarborough has big waves so it is a good place to practice your wave riding skills. It is however not a kitesurfing spot for beginners. It is more suitable for intermediate to advanced kitesurfers.

Muizenberg

Muizenberg is considered to be the birthplace of surfing in South Africa and is a kitesurfer’s paradise. It is currently home to a surfing community. Muizenberg has over 20 km beach that stretches all the way around the top of False Bay to the Strand. It caters for all levels from beginner to advanced kitesurfers because of its excellent wave-riding, free-riding and freestyle conditions. During summer months, the water is warm with small waves and perfect wind conditions for beginners. The kitesurfers will surely enjoy kitesurfing spot.

Sunset Beach

The Sunset beach is a long, sandy, white beach that has exquisite views of Table Mountain, Robben Island with stunning sunsets over the ocean. It is the most consistently windy spot in Cape Town and produces the most unbelievable waves. Because of this, Sunset beach is a favorite for kitesurfers, kiteboarders, windsurfers, and boardsailors. However, it is not recommended for beginners. Riding the large waves is only for the skilled and the brave. There are also a number of shops and restaurants close by so it is easy to get what you need.

Dolphin Beach

The Dolphin Beach is known by locals as “kite beach“. It is known for its amazing kitesurfing and windsurfing opportunities. It is also a good place for beginners to start out downwind. Dolphin beach is not only for kitesurfing and windsurfing but is also great for dolphin and whale watching. It has spectacular views of Table Mountain, Robben Island and gorgeous sunsets making it perfect for long beach walks. The beach has a variety of restaurants and shops within walking distance. However, there are no public facilities or lifeguards.

Camps Bay

Camps Bay is a nice sandy beach with small waves and is perfect for kitesurfing of all levels. It is not just popular to kitesurfers, Camps Bay is also popular and quite frenetic with families, stylish singles, and tourists. The kitesurfing spot also offers a lot of good and luxurious restaurants and bars to grab something to eat and to drink.

Shit Foil Kiters Say

Check out this video from Tom Court. ‘Shit that kite foilers say’ – foiling, foils, foilers, hover boards, pole riders, speed demons, stick jockeys, shaft monkeys, racers, light wind warriors…

kitesurfing in cape town

Cabrinha: The Kitesurfing Experts

If you’re an avid kitesurfer then there is little doubt that you’ve heard of Cabrinha.

It’s more than likely that you have or currently are using their world-class gear and you’re not the only one.

Cabrinha is the leading kitesurfing brand in 40 countries worldwide and they’re showing no signs of giving up the top spot.

How much do you know about Cabrinha, though?

Read on to learn more about the brand that is inspired and driven by champion waterman, Pete Cabrinha.

The Man

cabrinha kitesurfing

Pete Cabrinha isn’t like everybody else.

 His dedication to water sports has gained him both pioneer and master status in three of the most cutting edge water sports.

He has international titles in surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing – placing him at the top of a short list of world class watermen.

But he isn’t just a water sports guy.

For the past two decades he has also pursued the arts with vigour and curiosity.

Pete has paired his technical photography skills with his off centre painting techniques to capture the essence of a life lived above and below the Hawaiian waters.

Pete’s success and lifestyle as a professional water sports athlete and the founder of Cabrinha Kitesurfing enables him to travel the world.

The Gear

Cabrinha KitesurfingLike Pete, the Cabrinha kitesurfing brand is a world leader.

Since 2000, Cabrinha, a subsidiary of the Pryde Group, has climbed the ranks to take the position as the leading kitesurfing brand, selling in over 40 countries worldwide.

The company produces everything from kites to boards to accessories and it sponsors the top athletes in the sport.

The Cabrinha approach to kiteboarding is a reflection of the philosophy that Pete has applied to his many years of surfing.

By keeping an open mind to all styles of riding and embracing new technologies, Cabrinha has been able to lead kitesurfing into a new era of performance.

In South Africa

cabrinha kitesurfingSouth Africa is one of the best locations in the world for kitesurfing and is the current home of the Red Bull King of the Air kitesurfing competition.

So, obviously Cabrinha had to expand their reach and become synonymous with kitesurfing in South Africa just as they have done worldwide.

Which they have achieved.

Cabrinha has ten dealers stretching along the entire coast of South Africa providing all of the gear that you love as well as lessons to anyone who is keen to join in on the fun of this adrenaline injection of a water sport.

And Cabrinha isn’t the only one stocking their gear. You can find the best Cabrinha kites, boards and accessories in all of the leading kitesurfing centres across South Africa.

Get hold of Cabinha today!

Cabrinha is now sold at Open Ocean in Big Bay as they expanded their offering beyond Cabrinha gear.

Kite Like a King of the Air

Kite Like a King of the Air!

Five Absolute Must-Kite Hotspots in Cape Town

Between 31 January – 14 February 2015 twenty-four of the world’s best kiteboarders will battle it out in front of thousands of fans, and a panel of six esteemed judges, to find out who will be the new Red Bull King of the Air for 2015.

The battle ground for this world-famous event is chosen by an international panel of experts from the best spots around the world, like Hawaii, California and Brazil.

Big Bay, Cape Town wins every time.

red bull king of the air 2015

The reason why top international kiteboarders keep choosing our windy waters above their own is simple: our consistent and reliable wind.

So why not kite where the pro’s do?

Here’s the low down on a few of their favourite locations:

Witsands Cape Point

Witsands beach is a firm favourite for pro kiters. This beautiful setting is not for beginners as it offers far more extreme and challenging conditions than other spots around Cape Town.

Riders can catch their highest kicks and swells coming in from the south with the help of wind blowing between 40-50 knots.

Langebaan

Quite a contrast to Witsands with its clean winds, warmer waters and long, flat stretches of ocean, Langebaan is an ideal spot for beginners and pros alike.

Recognised for its excellent wind build-ups, pro riders know that Langebaan is the spot where they can get the height they’re looking for. Also a great spot for kiters to work on their surface technique, Langebaan makes a change from the hectic, sometimes terrifying conditions at other beaches.

Dolphin Beach

Dolphin Beach is known as one of the busiest kiting beaches in Cape Town during season, where anywhere between one hundred and one hundred and fifty kiters can be in the water at once.

This is thanks to consistent kite-friendly conditions, such as ample space to launch from the beach, two to three metres swells on windy days (which is almost every day in season), and of course, the great downwind kiting from the ever-present South Easter.

Haakgat

Located just a few kilometres outside of Big Bay, Haakgat is beloved for its four metres wave swells and excellent wave breaks.

The currents and waves are not suited to amateur kiters, however, and shouldn’t be taken on if you’re not confident and experienced.

Big Bay

Big Bay is acknowledged by the best as a beach with some of the cleanest waves and long flat areas of water, channelling some serious South Easters that allow riders to show off their more complex moves. The wind here is said to be lighter than in other parts of the coastline and creates perfect conditions for tricks and free styling.

“I’ve had some of my best surfs at Big Bay…with smooth nine metre winds and the most ridiculous kickers that curve in through the bay allowing you to pick the angle you want to hit them at.” – Aaron Hadlow, Five Time World Champion and Hadlow Pro by Flexifoil Gear Development. 

red bull king of the air 2015

Aaron Hadlow | Kolesky | Nikon | Red Bull Content Pool

red bull king of the air 2015

Jaanus Ree | Red Bull Content Pool

Aside from ideal wind and water, it’s what you can do once you get out of the water that makes Big Bay a favourite for locals and internationals. Eden on the Bay on Big Bay has great restaurants right on the beachfront, plenty of safe underground parking, and shops, like Cabrinha Cape Town. Plus, the Big Bay Lifesaving Club is right at the water’s edge.

Eden on the Bay is also the host of the Red Bull King of the Air event for the third consecutive year.

The 2015 King of the Air competition promises to be bigger and better than ever. As always, we’re anticipating crowds of thousands to gather on the sandy shores of Big Bay beach to witness the crowning of the 2015 Red Bull King of the Air competition. We’ll see you there.

kitesurfing in cape town

5 Reasons Why You Should Be Kitesurfing in Cape Town

The popularity of kitesurfing is soaring all over the world and Cape Town is the sport’s favourite training ground.

Wind and even more wind, cheap accommodation and entertainment for tourists, and plenty of touristy things to do makes Cape Town the place to visit for Kitesurfers of all levels.

Here are five reasons why you should book your flight right now and start kitesurfing in Cape Town.

Wind…So much wind

kitesurfing in cape town

Ask any Mother City local if Cape Town gets windy during Summer and they’ll laugh for two minutes straight.

Once they realise that you weren’t being ironic they’ll inform you that it’s pretty much always windy in Cape Town.

You may hear a few grumbles from locals that the wind gets a bit much, but the only thing you’ll hear from kitesurfers is a faint, distant “whoo-hoo”, because they’ll be out, killing it, on the water.

The Rand Ain’t The Strongest

kitesurfing in cape townKitesurfing is a very expensive sport…if you’re earning South Africa Rands.

If you’re strolling along the Cape coastline with Dollars, Euros or Pound Sterling, well then, kitesurfing in Cape Town is a very inexpensive sport.

And everything else will be cheap for you too.

A dining experience at one of Cape Town’s finest restaurants, the type of restaurant most locals save up six months for, won’t cost you more than 100 of whatever currency of bucks you have lining your wallets.

Practice Where The Pro’s Do

kitesurfing in cape town

The Red Bull King of the Air kitesurfing competition returns to Cape Town for a 3rd time running.

Twelve thousand people gathered to watch the spectacle that is the adrenaline induced World Cup of kitesurfing last year which further increased the popularity of the sport in Cape Town.

So if you’re kitesurfing in Cape Town you’re kitesurfing where the pros do. Cool, hey?

Tons of Other Stuff To Dokitesurfing in cape town

Now, you won’t be kitesurfing 24 hours a day. You have to sleep, eat and do the touristy thing at some stage.

Cape Town has once again been voted the world’s favourite tourist destination, so you can be sure that there is plenty to do and see.

Click here and here to check out just some of what Cape Town has to offer.

Great Deals

kitesurfing in cape town

There is no shortage of kitesurfing shops and instructors on Cape Town’s coastline.

We’re also a friendly generous people so a great deal can always be found in one of our many kitesurfing centres.

With lessons starting at R695 Cabrinha should be your first stop.

things to do in cape town

5 Things To Do In Cape Town (In The Water)

It’s unsurprising that Cape Town has been voted the world’s best tourism spot by the British and Americans. With its wide array of attractions Cape Town is perfect for everyone.

There are so many things to do in Cape Town

You can sample some internationally renowned wines and cuisine, ride a cable car up one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World -Table Mountain, tickle a cheetah behind the ear, paraglide off of Lion’s head (it’s a tall hill, not an actual lion) and then dance the night way on vibrant Long Street.

What?

 That doesn’t appeal to you?

Oh, you’re more of a water person, hey? That’s cool.

There are things to do in Cape Town for you as well.

Snorkel With Seals

things to do in cape town

Seals are adorable. Who wouldn’t want to dive in and have a quick swim with them?

Animal Ocean allows you to do just that.

Animal Ocean facilitates a unique day trip experience that guarantees it’s snorkelling tourists won’t only get to spot some seals but will have the opportunity to plunge in and witness them swimming and darting all around you.

info@sealsnorkeling.com

Shark Cage Diving

 things to do in cape town

Maybe seals are too cute and cuddly for you. Well, Cape Town has Sharks as well.

The Great White Shark to be exact.

If it’s a thrill you’re after then shark cage diving in Gansbaai will give it to you.

Gansbaai is home to the highest concentration of Great White sharks in the world and where they filmed the famous Discovery Channel documentary Air Jaws.

sharkdiving-capetown.co.za

Swim With Penguins

 boulders-beach-penguins

Okay, back to cute and cuddly.

One of the most visited locations in Cape Town is Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town. Boulder’s Beach is home to a colony of over 1000 penguins and is one of only 28 world sites where penguins are found.

So arrive nice and early, before it gets too hot, find yourself a shady picnic spot and spend the day penguin watching.

They really are a weird and fascinating bunch.

Learn To Kitesurf

kitesurfing

A trip to Cape Town wouldn’t be complete without a Kitesurfing lesson.

Kitesurfing’s popularity has soared recently and you’ll struggle to find someone who doesn’t want to give it a go – simply because it’s tons of fun.

You’re surfing then you’re flying, then you’re surfing again. It’s epic.

Several schools have opened up along the coast so you’ll have no problem finding the closest one to you.

Cape Coastline Kayak

things to do in cape town

If you’re looking for a water sport with less hang-time then give kayaking a go.

Cape Town has one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. One of the most popular spots along the coastline is Three Anchor Bay.

Explore Three Anchor Bay and Table Bay with a peaceful row beside the soft white sand beaches and uninterrupted views of Signal Hill, Lion’s Head and Table Mountain.

There’s also a chance that the odd penguin, seal or even dolphin will pay you a visit. No sharks, though. Phew.

Contact: +27 (021) 439 1134 for more information

Check out www.capetown-watersports.co.za for more exciting things to do in Cape Town.

Best Kiteboarding 2015 Pre-order special

Pre-order and pay for a 2015 Best product and get 15% OFF…but only until 1 September 2014!!

Approximate arrival of the first 2015 Best shipment at our shop is in September 2014.

And how about trying one before buying one?
We have the following 2015 demos available right now for testing:
– TS 9m
– GP 9m
– Cabo 7m
– Kahoona+ 9.5m
– Admiral 135 kiteboard (new model)
– Spin 134 kiteboard (new model)

Get the latest technology in kiteboarding at great prices, before the Cape Town windy season kicks in!

For more details on this limited offer, go to our website:
http://www.bestkiteboardingafrica.com/Promotions.html

Contact us to order your 2015 Kite, Kiteboard or Bar before time runs out!

Due to the release of the 2015 Best gear, we have priced our remaining 2014 Best stock to go!
http://www.bestkiteboardingafrica.com/Sales-and-Specials.html

Come and grab a 2014 Kite, Kiteboard or Bar before they disappear!

The BEST Africa Team

+27(0)215562765
info@bestkiteboardingafrica.com

Best Kiteboarding Africa Webcam and Wind Meter

We have upgraded our Webcam, which gives stunning views of Bloubergstrand and Table Mountain, and installed our new Windguru windmeter at the famous kitebeach! Keep an eye on the current conditions to know before you go!

Cheers

Best Kiteboarding Africa Team

 http://www.bestkiteboardingafrica.com/Webcam.php

Webcam

Blowfish restaurant

Blowfish Restaurant

Positioned with an amazing view of Table Mountain and surrounds, Blowfish Restaurant (one of Cape Town’s best seafood and sushi restaurants) is a must for anybody who loves watersports. With windows all around the restaurant, you can enjoy the view and listen to the sound of the nearby Atlantic Ocean as you enjoy your meal. 

Just about every seat in the restaurant provides a great view of Table Mountain (plus, all those windows allow you to watch all of the kitesurfing action going down at Kite Beach). To see Blowfish at its best, go between the afternoon and evening – you’ll get a chance to watch a beautiful sunset with a cocktail in hand (or local beer if that’s your fancy) before settling down for a meal.

Blowfish restaurant
The restaurant’s fish counter stocks between eight and twelve types of fish fresh. Besides your usual linefish and calamari, there is a huge variety of prawns, crayfish and langoustines on offer.

You can create your own platter or have a piece cut to order (this is all on the pay-per-gram system). In addition, they were among one of the first in Cape Town to be certified by the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI). So that means you can eat to your hearts content and still leave guilt-free, knowing they are doing their part to preserve the oceans we all enjoy. 

For those who don’t enjoy seafood, Blowfish also provides classic dishes: juicy steaks, tasty pastas and chicken. In addition to generous portions, Head Chef Lee Cox makes sure that every dish in the restaurant is perfect. Try a bottle from their award-winning wine selection for a great finish to your meal. 

Blowfish restaurantThe professional team of friendly staff will give you a top class experience. They also offer the opportunity for you to leave your car keys with them while you hit the water. Whether you’re keen for a light lunch, want to grab some sushi or watch the sun go down while you enjoy your meal, Blowfish is a must try for anyone in Cape Town!

Kevin Langeree crowned Red Bull King of the Air

After a long day of massive extreme kiting, Kevin Langeree came out on top and claimed the title of Red Bull King of the Air 2014.

For the second year in a row, Cape Town played host to 24 of the world’s best kiteboarders the went head-to-head in the unique “flag-out” format the Red Bull King of the Air is known for.

It all came down to the final in which Dutchman Kevin Langeree managed to edge out his compatriots Ruben Lenten (second) and Steven Akkersdijk (third) as well as the last South African standing Andries Fourie (fourth) to become Red Bull King of the Air champion in front of a 12 000 strong crowd.

Kevin had this to say of the event:

Kevin Langeree PHOTO | Craig | Kolesky | Red Bull Content Pool

Kevin Langeree PHOTO | Craig | Kolesky | Red Bull Content Pool

“The conditions picked up during the day and I couldn’t have hoped for anything better! The final was definitely tough and every one of us was so close to winning. I definitely had my best heat of the day in the final. This is the third Red Bull King of the Air I’ve competed in, and was a title that I didn’t have yet so I was hungry for it. I’m so stoked!”

Scored on height, creativity and style, the participants’ manoeuvres were judged by Alex Vliege (NED), William Bogaards (NED), Greg Thijsse (RSA), Arkadiusz Jerzelkowski (POL), Reinier Korstanje (NED), Ralf Bachsuster (GER) who had their work cut out for them.

Head judge Alex Vliege was pleased about how the event played out in the end:

“What an epic day! We had the best riders in the world here today with Cape Town and Mother-Nature delivering great conditions. We finally got what we were waiting for. Kevin was completely deserving of the title. He did the same moves as the others plus more, with variation and went higher than the others.”

The judging panel PHOTO | Jaanus Ree | Red Bull Content Pool

The judging panel PHOTO | Jaanus Ree | Red Bull Content Pool

A nifty tool made available to the judges was Xensr technology. This application measures the height, speed, airtime, gravity loading, location and the 3D motion of the athlete with all data captured at 400 times a second and is accurate to within 3mm, as soon as they land a jump. All jump data is then immediately relayed to the judges and the live stream. Frenchman Tom Herbert recorded the highest jump of the day – a lofty 25.04m, while Blouberg local Andries Fourie landed the second highest jump of 23.37m.

Cape Town definitely came to the party, with 12 000 people coming to the idyllic Eden on the Bay. The competitors were able to feed off the crowd’s energy, with the jumps getting bigger as the wind intensity increased. All in all it was an amazing spectacle of kiteboarding with perfect conditions in an amazing setting.

Massive Cape Town crowd PHOTO | Jaanus Ree | Red Bull Content Pool

Massive Cape Town crowd PHOTO | Jaanus Ree | Red Bull Content Pool

FINAL RESULTS

1. Kevin Langeree (NED)

2. Ruben Lenten (NED)

3. Steven Akkersdijk (NED)

4. Andries Fourie (RSA)

5. Aaron Hadlow (GBR)

5. Jesse Richman (USA)

7. Tom Herbert (FRA)

8. Billy Parker (USA)

Red Bull has just released the full video special of the King of the Air for two weeks before it goes to TV.Check out this awesome clip here

A Q&A with Jesse Richman

Our last interview with Red Bull King of the Air riders is the winner of last year’s competition, Jesse Richman!

– What is the longest hang time you’ve ever accomplished?

“I had a really awesome jump in San Francisco in 2007 where I floated in the air for 22 seconds.”

– On days with little to no wind, what do you do in Cape Town?

“I don’t know yet, right now the no wind activities include coffee and some awesome fresh juice at Carlucci’s.”

– What tricks have you been working on leading up to the King of the Air?

Jesse Richman

“Big Tricks!”

– How have you found the local food?

“I just got here, but so far it has been f***ing fantastic!”

– Do you prefer megaloops or old school board offs and rotations?

“Megaloops with rotations and board offs and handlepasses…and all at the same time!”

– What is he vibe like non the water here in Cape Town?

“Windy and cold!”

– Who is your role model in kiting or in life?

“I like to take things from many people. Some of my inspiring figures include, Parks Bonnifay for his pure power, Shane Dorian for being a bad ass, Michaels Phelps for trying new things, and my brother for being rad!

Red Bull King of the air winner 2013

-Have you had a chance to catch some night life? How was it?

“I don’t remember.”

-What makes the Red Bull King of the Air such a unique and exciting event?

“King of the Air takes all the bad ass, crazy aspects of the sport and combines it all into one ridiculous day”

A Q&A with Aaron Hadlow

Our next interview with a rider from the Red Bull King of the Air is with none other than Aaron Hadlow!

– What is your favourite kite spot in Cape Town?

“I enjoy kiting in the location of the Red Bull King of the Air the most. Big Bay is not only ideal for launching big air but also for my discipline, freestyle and technical progression. The waves roll in and they are perfect for launching off axis rotations as you can pick the angle at which you take off due to the convex shape of the bay. When you ride in, the waves make flat, shallow water in between them, this area is great for other tricks.”

– What is the longest hang time you’ve ever accomplished?

“In the past kiteboarding was all about big air, as the years have pasted the style has changed but now with the King of the Air it is making its come back in a more extreme way. I don’t exactly know how long I have stayed up in the air for but would say one of my biggest jumps must have been around 9 or 10 questions.”

– On days with little to no wind, what do you do in Cape Town?

PHOTO [Kolesky | Nikon | Red Bull Content Pool]

PHOTO [Kolesky | Nikon | Red Bull Content Pool]

“One of the reasons I have kept coming back to Cape Town for 12 years is the fact that I can stay active even if there is no wind. There is a cable park for wakeboarding, some amazing trails for mountain biking, good gyms and you are so close to the city but the fact is that in the summer the wind rarely stops blowing.”

– What tricks have you been working on leading up to the Red Bull King of the Air?

“I have been focusing on the PKRA World tour this season so the tricks I have been working only lately are very technical. During the last few weeks when the wind has kicked in strong I have been testing out my equipment, making sure all my gear is working perfectly and safe, then I focus on going big with some kite loops.”

– How have you found the local food?

“It is great to be able to eat nice and healthy here, the food is good.”

PHOTO [Rick Guest | Red Bull Content Pool]

PHOTO [Rick Guest | Red Bull Content Pool]

– Do you prefer megaloops or old school board offs and rotations?

“Kiteloops are the way forward, old school board offs have been and gone, I went through this stage at 14 and took it to it’s limits back then. For me big air is all about creating a spectacle with extreme high risk riding. Massive kite loops where you get catapulted through the air and land full speed.”

– Have you had a chance to catch some night life here? How was it?

“I haven’t been out so much in the past couple of years but for sure have been out plenty of times over the years, almost every night through the summer there seems to be something good going on. There are some nice clubs and definitely good nights to be had.”

– What makes the Red Bull King of the Air such a unique and exciting event?

“I am usually competing in events that push the technical side of kiteboarding with innovation in powered tricks, they are lower but can be done in all conditions. The Red Bull King of the Air is an event pushing height in extreme conditions, for me it is all about the risk, a high jump is not necessarily extreme but when you see riders jumping as high as possible and throwing a kite loop in there too, then it gets crazy. They are high risk and spectacular to watch, if you can also throw a handle pass in there too then the risk is taken to the next level. That’s what I hope to see and help show the public. The best thing about this event is that at least half of the field are odds on to win this event, anyone can take home the win. There is no clear rider that stands above the rest because you never know what might get pulled out the bag on the day.”

Aaron Hadlow

A Q&A with Kevin Langeree

We got an awesome Q&A with some of the top 12 riders from last year’s Red Bull King of the Year! Our first one was with Kevin Langeree.

-What is your favourite kite spot in Cape Town?

“There are a lot of great spots around. For jumping big and freestyle, Big Bay is the place to be and for riding wave 3de steen and Haakgat are awesome. I also like to go to the cape and ride places like the crayfish factory and White Sand.”

-What is the longest hang time you’ve ever accomplished?

“Always when you start timing jumps you never end up with a crazy record-breaking hang time. But every now and than you get lucky with a funky gust that gives you that hang time you always hope for. One of my longest jumps must have been around 18 sec.”

-On days with little to no wind, what do you do in Cape Town?kevin-Langeree

“Cape Town has so much to offer sometimes it’s hard to make up your mind what to do. But when there is no wind there are still some waves around so I love to get out my SUP or surf board and catch some waves.”

-What tricks have you been working on leading up to the Red Bull King of the Air?

“I’ve been trying to jump bigger and bigger, that’s what the Red Bull King of the Air is all about in my eyes. During the season I don’t get the chance to train big jumps very often. But I’m lucky that I can spend a couple months of the year here in Cape Town. It’s a great training ground.”

-How have you found the local food?

“I love great food. And great food is not very hard to find here in CT. I’ve been coming here for the last 9 years and it still amazes me how good the food is and how little you pay. Can’t wait to go for dinner, better hurry up with this interview.”

-Do you prefer megaloops or old school board offs and rotations?

“I don’t really prefer one different trick or style. But I like to see guys go BIG! The cool thing about kiteboarding is that there are so many styles and ways of riding. It will almost suit any kind of person. So the diversity is what I like most about our sport.”

PHOTO | Kolesky | Nikon | Red Bull Content Pool

PHOTO | Kolesky | Nikon | Red Bull Content Pool

-What is the vibe like on the water here in Cape Town?

“The vibe on the water is super cool especially during the event. In the high season it gets pretty crowded, but for the event you are pairing Big Bay with some of the best riders in the world. So you really want to push your limits.”

-Who is your biggest role model?

“Don’t really have one.”

-Have you had a chance to catch some nightlife here? How was it?

“The night life is pretty awesome! There are tons for cool bars and clubs and the girls are just smoking!”

-What makes the Red Bull King of the Air such a unique and exciting event?

“This event is so unique ‘cos it really showcases what kiteboarding is all about. In my eyes, it’s all about going as big as you can and giving the people a good show. There are no kiteboarding events where jumping big really counts so I’m super stoked the Red Bull King of the Air is back!”

Kevin_langeree_crazier_shotkevin_langeree_crazy_shot

BEST Fest Demo Day 18/19 January 2014

Come and Ride with Us on the first windy day of the weekend, 18 or 19 January 2014! Take advantage of this unique gathering to test the full 2014 Best gear range, meet and chat to BEST Kiteboarding pro-riders, see them ride, get their autograph and party with the Best crew afterwards! All testers also qualify for 15% discount on 2014 Best gear purchased on these days!

Presented at Kitebeach, check http://www.bestkiteboardingafrica.com/Demo-Days.html for further info.

Cheers!

http://ccair.org/online/

The BEST Africa Team

Cape Town voted Number ONE Destination for 2014

The New York Times has selected Cape Town as the Number One destination in a list of “52 Places to Go in 2014″! And most Capetonians would undoubtedly agree!

The New York Times said that by November 2013 they already had a “strong sense that Cape Town would be our No. 1 destination, but the subsequent death of Nelson Mandela made the choice all the more meaningful; the South African leader spent years gazing at the city (and Table Mountain beyond) from his cell on Robben Island.

Of course much has changed since then, and that is what we look for in a top pick: a destination that has its own transformative story to tell. From Rio (2013) to Sri Lanka (2010) to Beirut (2009), the places that land at No. 1 are chosen because at this moment there is a defining reason to go.”

In the section on Cape Town, journalist Sarah Khan describes South Africa’s Mother City as “a place to meditate on freedom, and the creative life that followed.”

Cape Town waterfront

Her piece opens with Nelson Mandela’s oft-used quote about how Cape Town inspired him and the other prisoners during their incarceration on Robben Island, with Table Mountain representing “a beacon of hope”.

Acknowledging that South Africa “has transformed itself since Mandela’s imprisonment, but there’s still much to be done”, the article highlights many of the fabulous projects going on in Cape Town right now, including that the city is World Design Capital this year, the upcoming Design Indaba conference in February, the Maboneng Lalela Project, Foodpods and the Langa Quarter project.

The piece concludes that “Cape Town is again reinventing itself, and the world is invited to its renaissance.” So tell your overseas friends!

Contenders in the Top 5 included Christchurch, New Zealand; North Coast, California; Albanian coast, Europe and Downtown Los Angeles, USA. One of South African expats’ favourite destinations, Perth, also made it into the Top 10, listed at number nine.

Cape Town SunsetAccording to the New York Times, they “aim for a selection of places that we expect to be particularly compelling in the coming year; reasons might include a museum opening, a new transportation option or a historical anniversary. So even though cities like Paris, London and Tokyo are always exciting, they didn’t make the cut this year (though all three have appeared on previous lists).”

The only other African destinations in the ’52 Places to Go in 2014′ list were Namibia which did well at number 6 (“Africa’s latest conservation success story is a boon for travellers”); Addis Ababa, Ethiopa at 13; Laikipia Plateau, Kenya at 19; the Seychelles at 27 (although it’s not quite on the continent); and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania at 39.

The reason the list contains 52 destinations is so that there is one per week…but maybe after people visit number one, they’ll never want to leave!

Robby Naish: A living legend

When you think of windsurfing, kitesurfing or watersports in general, one name springs to mind: Robby Naish.

Robby has been a part of the watersports world since the very beginning and has seen the evolution of windsurfing as well as kitesurfing. He runs one of the most successful brands and has tons of World Titles under his belt. When he has something to say about the Red Bull King of the Air and what it means for kitesurfing, we take notice.

So here’s an interview with Robby when Red Bull flew him to Cape Town for last year’s King of the Air.

ROBBY: ON THE RETURN OF THE RED BULL KING OF THE AIR

To a certain degree the original King of the Air helped launch the sport in general, bringing money, awareness and prestige to the table. I’ve been in discussions with Red Bull for over a year about bringing back some kind of kiting event, but it had to be unique.

PHOTO | Craig Kolesky / Nikon / Red Bull Content Pool

PHOTO | Craig Kolesky / Nikon / Red Bull Content Pool

The old King of the Air was let go because it had become a little same old-same old and Red Bull like to promote the unexpected.

The discussion had been fairly constant about whether to do a wave event or this, or that and we even discussed it before the Len10 Mega Loop Challenge last year.

More people were invited into the discussion early on and I’m glad they listened to the suggested adaptations.

The mega loop is very neat for a few people who can get excited about watching them all day, but I was pushing for them to bring back something that wasn’t so limited in terms of what the guys were doing.

I was still pushing for some sort of visual references in the background that could be added to the event to bring in more general public appeal and instant media response. Media likes things they can package in one picture with a headline, or can make a 20 second news reel clip from.

This came as close as any event we’ve ever seen in kiteboarding. As great as the PKRA riders are, the scope of what they are doing has got narrower and narrower, appealing to a smaller and smaller target audience. I think we needed a return of big air freestyle, not just kite loops – a giant board-off is still exciting and the kind of thing that can be packaged beyond the narrow scope of today’s competitive kiting scene.

I think the Red Bull King of the Air hit the nail right on the head: the venue, the conditions on the day with the level of riding and the way the guys grasped the concept. A few guys were just sticking to their guns and doing loops, but they weren’t the ones awing the crowd.

ROBBY: ON THE FORMAT

The flag out system was killer, exciting and it really worked well. For me, it was the best kiting event ever, because of everything. The level, conditions, the location, the format, the riders and picking just the right guys for the job and packaging it all in one day.

There was no anti-climax, it was built and it built, it got windier and windier; it just couldn’t have been better. There are only a few places in the world this event could be held, and Big Bay was a perfect spot.Kevin Langaree, Jesse Richman, Jalou Langaree, Robby Naish

I had a group of kids come from a Laureus Sport for Good foundation in South Africa – a group of skaters and surfers from two local Cape Town projects. They were blown away. I’ve been to a lot of events in my life, and that was up there on the same level. Maybe only the indoor windsurfing events have been a better ‘show’, but you’d have to really nitpick to find things that should have been better about this event.

ROBBY: ON RED BULL
They are smart. They grab the organisation that already exists and use it alongside their back-end organisation, especially now with the Red Bull Media House. For the original Red Bull King of the Air they used local riders Mike Waltz and Joe Cool, they didn’t just truck in a bunch of Austrians; they get the right people. Having Sergio Cantagalli here organising this event, Susi Mai as a spokesperson and bringing me in for insight just balances things out.

PHOTO | Kolesky / Nikon / Red Bull Content Pool

PHOTO | Kolesky / Nikon / Red Bull Content Pool

Red Bull are all about broadening horizons. They take a concept and say, ‘Let’s put some fertilizer on this and see what we can make happen.’ In the beginning they were exclusively about promoting and being involved with off-the-radar sports.

No advertising, no football, nothing like that which helped establish the company and in turn they helped establish a lot of sports and athletes that otherwise wouldn’t have had the money to follow their dreams and push things.

Honestly kiteboarding needed that as it has mojo on the competitive side and struggled to remain relevant to most riders. Most kiteboarders aren’t 17, and this event can be built upon and is easily followed.

The names of the riders will become more recognisable, which they’re honestly not right now and the guy that’s out there kiting on the weekend will become more interested, so it’s fricking cool that they’ve brought it back.

ROBBY: ON CAPE TOWN
I’ve never been to South Africa. In the early days of windsurfing competition the GTI cup came here and was a huge success but South Africa was very political and I just didn’t want to get involved in the whole apartheid thing. Through my whole career I’ve tried to stay politically correct and in the 80s it was pretty gnarly.

It’s not like I did it as a statement, it wasn’t a big thing, I just didn’t go. I travelled so much during the competition days that all I really did was the world cup and then an occasional PR trip if my sponsor really wanted me to, but the rest of the time I didn’t go travel for fun.

I went to events. When I stopped competing and started travelling for fun, our winter at home on the North Shore of Maui and Oahu is a really key time for getting the conditions that we like to ride. I wanted to come to South Africa, but to travel that far in that season, wear a wetsuit and probably miss something at home? So I never did.

PHOTO | Ydwer van der Heide / Red Bull Content Pool

PHOTO | Ydwer van der Heide / Red Bull Content Pool

I’ve missed two Jaws days already this week at home, not really big ones, but I’m finally at a point in my life and my career that I don’t mind missing Jaws days.

It’s not gonna rip my spine out the way it used to. So I decided I would come to South Africa, kite frontside and not lose sleep over it. I’m not chasing my ego so much anymore and I’m not worried about who is getting their picture taken when I’m not.

I’ve heard about this place forever and I’ve only been here six days, but I’ve had so much fun. I really have.

With the 2014 Red Bull King of the Air coming up soon, you can expect to see Robby Naish, as well as some insane big air action back in Cape Town.

For the full interview click here.

SAKA’s Successful 2013

SAKA has been extremely busy this year, and the future of kitesurfing in Cape Town is looking brighter by the minute.

In the past year SAKA has secured 3rd part liability insurance for its members. This means that they have managed to get insurance cover for all SAKA approved competitions through the events company MOBEThis is just another step towards moving kitesurfing to a higher level of professionalism in SA.

They have also announced that MOBE events will be running the 2013 SAKA Championships from the end of November 2013 to the end of March 2014. MOBE, who have been running kitesurfing events since 2005, will be in charge of the tour of five events.

There are five event stops for the Championships.SAKA tour details

Four of the stops will be a three-day weekend event along the Western Cape:-

  • MOBE Xtreme Opens: 29 Nove 2013 – 01 Dec 2013    (Yzerfontein)
  • MOBEUltimate X: 20 Dec 2013 – 22 Dec 2013               (Strand)
  • MOBE X Wave classic: 21 Feb 2014 – 23 Feb 2014       (Big Bay)
  • MOBE Xtreme Pro: 21 March 2014 – 23 March 2014  (Dolphin Beach

And the main five-star competition will run at two different venues over seven days!

  • MOBE Xtreme Challenge: 06 Jan – 13 Jan 2014             (Langebaan & Big Bay)

While Monday and Tuesday’s events were called off due to bad weather (06 & 07 Jan) The remaining contest days will still be happening featuring all of the freestyle and wave riding.

Ruben lenten Kite loopThere will be different event rankings for each leg and the overall combined results will decide who the new South African kitesurfing champion is. The three disciplines for the tour will be freestyle, wave and slalom racing. Each discipline will have novice and open categories. With all the options for competing, and a full week of entertainment, this is set to be the biggest kiting event South Africa has ever seen!

Keeping our C Clean

CLEAN C has been running beach cleanups for 3 years. In that time they have helped remove over 8 tons of rubbish.

WHO THEY ARE

Clean C is an NPO that is passionate about South Africa and the people in it. Along with the myriad of projects focused on improving life for all those who live in our beautiful country, they also run monthly beach cleanups all over Cape Town.

WHY THEY DO WHAT THEY DOclean c on the beach

Unfortunately, in South Africa you may find rubbish along the beach and in the water. While it is important  to raise awareness of this, and to teach people about the damage this causes, CLEAN C believes in taking practical steps to cleaning up our beaches and demonstrating the impact one can have on one’s environment.

South Africa is home to a large number of beautiful beaches, which is why we are the perfect destination for Kitesurfing and other watersports holidays! CLEAN C runs cleanups at most of these beaches, with new beaches being added all the time.

Clean c beach clean up kidsHOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

Beach cleanups run on the first Saturday of every month starting at 10am and last around 90 minutes. Families are welcome and this is a great way to teach your kids about taking care of the environment and keeping our beaches beautiful and pollution free.

Bags and gloves are provided, so all you have to bring is a willingness to help out! The venues include Melkbos, Sea Point and everywhere in between. This is an awesome initiative, and you can get involved no matter where you are. For more information click here.

WAVE SALE – Great prices on surf combos!

HIT THE WAVES THIS SUMMER WITH THESE BOMBER http://starrgennett.org/online/ WAVE-RIDING COMBO DEALS!

2013 BEST Cabo 5 complete + Best surfboard (5’8″ or 6’0″) R 14,999

2013 BEST Cabo 6 complete + Best surfboard (5’8″ or 6’0″) R 15,499

2013 BEST Cabo 7 complete + Best surfboard (5’8″ or 6’0″) R 15,999

2013 BEST Cabo 9 complete + Best surfboard (5’8″ or 6’0″) R 16,599

WAINMAN 2.0 Bunny 5m complete + Magnum 5’10” R 14,999

WAINMAN 2.0 Mr Green 7.5m complete + Magnum 5’10” R 15,999

WAINMAN 2.0 Smoke 9m complete + Magnum 5’10” R 16,599

For more details:
http://www.bestkiteboardingafrica.com/Promotions.html
or,
Contact us for more info and stock availability:
+27(0)21 556 2765
info@bestkiteboardingafrica.com
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kitesurfing tips for beginners
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Kitesurfing Tips for Beginners

Kitesurfing is one of the world’s fastest growing extreme water sport. It involves a combination of several sports skills, including surfing, wakeboarding, and kiteflying, making it a complex yet rewarding sport. It is relatively easy to learn, but learning to kitesurf can be exciting, overwhelming and daunting at the same time. Here are some kitesurfing tips for beginners:

Watch Instructional Kitesurfing Videos

Watching instructional kitesurfing videos before kitesurf lessons will definitely help you learn faster. In addition to learning tricks, watching the videos beforehand allows you to get an idea of what kitesurfing is like, what to expect and how to physically and mentally prepare for the challenge.  However, it should be noted that these instructional videos are not intended to be as substitutes for professional kitesurfing lessons. They are merely intended to be supplementary sources in the learning process.

Don’t Go Kitesurfing by Yourself

Kitesurfing can be the most dangerous sport in the world if you don’t know what you’re doing. But it can also be the safest and most fun sport if you get a proper introduction and lessons. Simply put, find someone to teach you because learning kitesurfing requires the supervision of a qualified kitesurfing instructor who can demonstrate proper technique and help you understand all the other factors that relate to the activity. Sure, you can try to teach yourself to kitesurf but learning through an experienced and professional instructor is not only for your own safety but also for the safety of other innocent beachgoers and kitesurfers. Getting lessons from a qualified kitesurf instructor is undoubtedly the best way to progress quickly and safely. Read More

kitesurfing tips for beginners

Kitesurfing Spots in Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the best kitesurfing destinations in the world because it has various kitesurfing spots along its coast. Whether you are a beginner or advanced kitesurfer, you will surely find the best kitesurfing spot suitable for your skills and preference. In fact, professionals from all over the globe come to Cape Town to train for kitesurfing events. Cape Town offers flat waters, downwind spots, small waves, high waves, warm and cool water. You just have to find the kitesurfing spot that works best for you. Here are the top kitesurfing spots in Cape Town:

Big Bay

Kitesurfing-Cape-Town

Big bay is just about a 30-minute drive from the city center. It is one of the most popular kitesurfing spots in Cape Town. It is a favorite not just for kitesurfers, but also bodyboarders, surfers, windsurfers, SUP, and anybody who wants to spend a day at the beach. This is why Big bay can become very crowded, especially on the summer weekends. Big bay is also known for its strong winds and is popular with surfers of any level. There are also flat sections between the waves and great waves which are sheltered by the rocks. In addition, Big Bay is full of life and friendly locals. It is full of restaurants, supermarkets, and kitesurfing shops. Read More

Kite Like a King of the Air

Kite Like a King of the Air!

Five Absolute Must-Kite Hotspots in Cape Town

Between 31 January – 14 February 2015 twenty-four of the world’s best kiteboarders will battle it out in front of thousands of fans, and a panel of six esteemed judges, to find out who will be the new Red Bull King of the Air for 2015.

The battle ground for this world-famous event is chosen by an international panel of experts from the best spots around the world, like Hawaii, California and Brazil.

Big Bay, Cape Town wins every time.

red bull king of the air 2015

The reason why top international kiteboarders keep choosing our windy waters above their own is simple: our consistent and reliable wind.

So why not kite where the pro’s do?

Here’s the low down on a few of their favourite locations:

Witsands Cape Point

Witsands beach is a firm favourite for pro kiters. This beautiful setting is not for beginners as it offers far more extreme and challenging conditions than other spots around Cape Town.

Riders can catch their highest kicks and swells coming in from the south with the help of wind blowing between 40-50 knots. Read More

Weather at Kite Beach

One Of The Main Reasons People Keep Coming Back To Cape Town… Is The Amazing Summer Winds and Fantastic Vibe In The City

Cabrinha Kiteboarding is the best stores for Gear, Deals and Advice in Cape Town

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