Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing has been taking off in the Bay area and around the world. The San Francisco Boardsailing Association (SFBA) recognizes kitesurfing and windsurfing as two different sports that both fall within the definition of boardsailing. SFBA fights to maintain and improve access for both windsurfers and kitesurfers. SFBA promotes safety for both communities as well and is always looking for new ways to get this job done.

While larger organizations have worked on developing general kiting safety guidelines, SFBA has supported the development of local safety guidelines developed by local sailors that are specific to our most used kitesurfing sites. SFBA has provided funds for the post kiting safety signs and has worked with park rangers to promote cooperative solutions. Here are some of the latest guidelines that you should be aware of:

• Alameda (Local Guidelines Page - Alameda Section)
• Third Avenue (Local Guidelines Page - Third Avenue Section)
• Stinson Beach (Local Guidelines Page - Stinson Beach Section)

Kitesurfing can be exhilarating, but it can also be unforgiving when things go wrong. It is important for kiters and aspiring kiters to learn as much as possible about safety before they get into a situation.

Here are a few resources to get you going:

San Francisco Kitesurfing Association – local site info, safety info, shop info and more

Bay Area Kiteboarding –detailed safety information, local forum, local info

iKitesurf.com - general forum and local forum

iKiteboarding.com- includes good articles on safety

Comments, Suggestions? SFBA Webmaster (modified )