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THE ULTIMATE TRAINER KITE GUIDE - TAKING ALL THE GUESS WORK OUT
TRAINER KITE PURCHASING FACTORS
First point of discussion is your trainer kite budget and a very important factor in any new kite purchase. Too often people spend way past their means for a leisure item. I do not want you to buy a trainer kite from our store you cannot afford. To the other side of that, do not waste your money on a junk trainer kite. I know a lot of people that feel great about buying something off eBay for fraction of the retail price, but they usually have a remorseful story about buying something cheap and low quality. Thats why ShadeOnMe offers the top trainer kites at the lowest price structures possible. Giving you value is great for both of us, because you will return happily to buy more kiteboarding gear. So how much should I spend on a trainer kite? Depending on your age and weight a $100 price point can give you a decent trainer kite, but $200 can change the whole game. The great thing about trainer kites is that they hold their value well, and if you out grow them you can sell them or hand them down to a lucky individual. Whatever your budget may be, buy a quality trainer kite within your means. And rest assured, every kite we sell has been handled by our staff and we stand behind it.
The second important deciding factor in selecting a trainer kite would be yours goals. Goals in kiteboarding can range from casual flying to progressing to a full size 11m HQ Neo2 kite and Mauna board. If your trainer kite goals are closer to the casual flying side you should not buy a HQ Rush III Pro 350, also in that same token do not buy an HQ Symphony 1.8 TR kite in hopes of flying high with your landboard. Properly size your trainer kite to your goals. With this being said we have multiple trainer kite options for every goal and need.
FIVE TRAINER KITE RECOMMENDATIONS
Below is a list of five trainer kites ranging from mild to wild.
1. Skydog First Foil Trainer Kite
The most affordable trainer kite option we offer, but do not let the price fool you. The Skydog is a REAL TRAINER KITE it flys great and has an unmatched fit and finish for its price range. However, the First Foil Trainer Kites biggest downfall is its size. At less than 2 meters, it will not generate the pull kiteboarding power kites are famous for. This trainer kite will though teach you how to maneuver and setup a kite for Kitebording. Skydogs First Foil Trainer Kite also makes a great companion kite to go with a bigger trainer kite. This lets you show or teach people how to fly before they grab your expensive Rush 350 Pro and destroy it.
2. Sensei / Crazyfly Rookie Trainer Kite
Both the Sensei and Crazyfly Rookie Trainer Kites are the same kite, only difference is branding. They come in two sizes 2 Meter and 3 Meter. The quality of the trainer kites are amazing. They are durable and great performers. The trainer kites are 2 lines, but are designed that way on purpose to relaunch without the need of the third line.
3. HQ RUSH III TRAINER KITE
The line of HQ Rush III kites is great. I can not say enough great things about them. The Rush III trainer kites (2-line) are one of the best all-around kites. Their performance is great, durability, wonderful, and outstanding support. They come in three sizes 200, 250, and 300. The main difference between this and the Rush III Pro trainer kite are the third line for relaunching and depower.
4. HQ RUSH III PRO TRAINER KITE
The Rush III PRO is an amazing 3-line trainer kite second only to the Hydra. You get all the benefits from the Rush III but with a third line. The third line makes relaunching and depowering the trainer kite a breeze. This kite generates tremendous power and superb functionality, comparable to other trainer kites. I recommend this kite to anyone needing a powerful trainer for landboarding, buggying, snowkiting, and general power kiting. The best part is if you buy from us, you get a free Progression Beginner DVD ($35 VALUE). We do this so you can truly learn the mechanics of power kiting. This will propel your learning curve, and it’s also a lot of fun to just watch. If you are not sure about your goals in kiteboarding I would definitely pick one up before buying a trainer kite.
5. HQ HYDRA TRAINER KITE
Last but not least the King, the Best, and the Mailman of trainer kites neither rain sleet or snow will stop this trainer kite from getting its job down. Its the only trainer kite on the market with a closed cell design allowing it to be used on any terrain. And if you think its a little high price, take into consideration it will make up for its premium price three fold for what you would pay in lessons. The Hydra is the only kite that is used for kitesurfing, snowkiting, landboarding, and buggies. It shares a third line with its cousin the Rush III Pro Trainer Kite (both kites have a third line)
TRAINER KITE COMPARISON CHART
| Name | Size | Lines | Power | Wind Range | Price | Editors Choice |
| Skydog First Foil | 1.7M | 2 | Low | 6-25 MPH | $69.95 | a |
| HQ Symphony 1.4 TR | 1.4M Sq 140cm | 2 | Low | 8-25 MPH | $79.95 | |
| HQ Symphony 1.8 TR | 1.8M Sq 180cm | 2 | Low | 7-25 MPH | $94.95 | |
| HQ Rush III 200 | 1.4M Sq 200cm | 2 | Low | 7-28MPH | $123.49 | |
| Sensei / Crazyfly Rookie 2M | 2.0M Sq 200cm | 2 | Medium | 6-26MPH | $134.95 | a |
| HQ Rush III 250 | 2.0M Sq 250cm | 2 | Medium | 6-28MPH | $151.99 | a |
| Skydog SDT 3.0 | 3.0M Sq 300cm | 2 | High | 5-25MPH | $169.95 | |
| HQ Rush III 300 | 2.8M Sq 300cm | 2 | High | 5-28MPH | $180.49 | a |
| Sensei / Crazyfly Rookie 3M | 3.0M Sq 300cm | 2 | High | 5-27MPH | $184.95 | a |
| HQ Rush III PRO 250 | 2.0M Sq 250cm | 3 | Medium | 6-28MPH | $180.49 | |
| HQ Rush III PRO 300 | 2.8M Sq 300cm | 3 | High | 5-25MPH | $218.49 | |
| HQ Rush III PRO 350 | 3.5M Sq 350cm | 3 | Highest | 5-24MPH | $246.99 | a |
| HQ Hydra 300 | 2.6M Sq 300cm | 3 | High | 5-28MPH | $265.99 | a |
| HQ Hydra 350 | 3.5M Sq 350cm | 3 | Highest | 5-24MPH | $322.99 | a |
Chart Key
Lines:
2 Line Trainer Kite - Two line trainer kites are the standard. They can not relaunch backwords but they turn faster and benefit from a simpler design.
3 Line Trainer Kite - Third Line is used for depower and and relaunching of the trainer kite. Only downfall is it does not turn as fast as a 2 line trainer kite.
Power:
Low - Does not generate the heel dragging pull most power kite enthusiasts want. You will learn basic flying, kite skills, while giving you some decent tugs. This power level will be a fast but docile flyer.
Medium - Generates a nice firm pull. In enough wind a 2 meter trainer kite will pull most adults around. Great for casual flyers seeking a little pull and even exercising.
High - These trainer kites will pull and drag you through sand. A 3 meter trainer kite is a great all around size for most flyers.
Highest - This is when trainer kites show there highest potential. This power level allows kiters to train and practice into many different kite sports (Ie. Snowkiting, Landboarding, Kitesurfing, Kiteskimming, and Buggies). A Rush 350 Pro will give you the power to get on a landboard and experience a bit of what you see online in videos like this. A Hydra 350 trainer kite will give you the opportunity to get in the water to practice body drags, board and trainer kite manipulations.
Editors Choice:
These kites are popular best sellers we recommend to customers. However this does not mean the other trainer kites lack in anyway. It just lets you know what most customers choose.
2 Line Trainer Kite - Two line trainer kites are the standard. They can not relaunch backwords but they turn faster and benefit from a simpler design.
3 Line Trainer Kite - Third Line is used for depower and and relaunching of the trainer kite. Only downfall is it does not turn as fast as a 2 line trainer kite.
Power:
Low - Does not generate the heel dragging pull most power kite enthusiasts want. You will learn basic flying, kite skills, while giving you some decent tugs. This power level will be a fast but docile flyer.
Medium - Generates a nice firm pull. In enough wind a 2 meter trainer kite will pull most adults around. Great for casual flyers seeking a little pull and even exercising.
High - These trainer kites will pull and drag you through sand. A 3 meter trainer kite is a great all around size for most flyers.
Highest - This is when trainer kites show there highest potential. This power level allows kiters to train and practice into many different kite sports (Ie. Snowkiting, Landboarding, Kitesurfing, Kiteskimming, and Buggies). A Rush 350 Pro will give you the power to get on a landboard and experience a bit of what you see online in videos like this. A Hydra 350 trainer kite will give you the opportunity to get in the water to practice body drags, board and trainer kite manipulations.
Editors Choice:
These kites are popular best sellers we recommend to customers. However this does not mean the other trainer kites lack in anyway. It just lets you know what most customers choose.
RECOMMENDED ACCESORIES
Instructional Kiteboarding DVD:
We Recommend The Progression Beginner DVD 2nd Edition
When getting into kiteboarding nothing can complement a trainer kite like an Instructional DVD. Even if you are not ready for a trainer kite or still debating on getting into the sport this will be the best $31.95 you ever spend. It will progress your learning curve and save you some money on lessons. I still recommend lessons but this will teach you the basics or wind and getting you flying your trainer kite with ease.
When getting into kiteboarding nothing can complement a trainer kite like an Instructional DVD. Even if you are not ready for a trainer kite or still debating on getting into the sport this will be the best $31.95 you ever spend. It will progress your learning curve and save you some money on lessons. I still recommend lessons but this will teach you the basics or wind and getting you flying your trainer kite with ease.
Windmeter (Anemometer):
We Recommend The Xplorer 1 Windmeter by Skywatch
We Recommend the Onda board.
We Recommend a SCRUB Landboard.
We Recommend a Wavezone Skimboard.
We Recommend a Peterlynn Buggy
A Windmeter also known as an Anemometer is great tool and used by kiters everywhere. They help you locate wind direction and speed. Some even test the temperature and pressure outside. This is very valuable information and can help you decide when to kite and when not to. The weather channel is a great source for information buy can only give you an idea of certain parameters for a particular spot. Not to mention weather conditions are ever changing. Hands down a windmeter is a for any kiteboarders bag.
Balance Board:
We Recommend The Flow Vew Do Balance Board
Balance boards are great learning tools and not to mention a whole lot of fun. If you plan to get into any kiting board sport, balance boards will help you progress faster. Even a seasoned skater will receive a fun challenge trying new tricks. But if you never skated or surfed and are worried you can’t learn to kite just as easy as Tony Hawk don’t! I have seen with my own two eyes older individuals with bad knees and no boarding experience pickup kiting like a duck to water. How you ask? They practiced like crazy on a balance board.
Balance boards are great learning tools and not to mention a whole lot of fun. If you plan to get into any kiting board sport, balance boards will help you progress faster. Even a seasoned skater will receive a fun challenge trying new tricks. But if you never skated or surfed and are worried you can’t learn to kite just as easy as Tony Hawk don’t! I have seen with my own two eyes older individuals with bad knees and no boarding experience pickup kiting like a duck to water. How you ask? They practiced like crazy on a balance board.
Landboard / Skimboard / Buggy:
We Recommend the Onda board.
We Recommend a SCRUB Landboard.
We Recommend a Wavezone Skimboard.
We Recommend a Peterlynn Buggy
Trainer kites are smaller versions of their larger brothers but that does not mean you can not use them for kiteboarding. Now I am not telling you should use a HQ Hydra 350 for a deep water start. Under the right conditions the Hydra trainer kite has been proven it can but we do not recommend it. On the other hand a 3.5 meter trainer kite (and sometimes smaller) can get you moving on a skimboard, landboard, snowboard, and some kite buggies to have some real fun. This can bring hours of enjoyment so ShadeOnMe recommends them as more affordable kiteboarding options.
2 Line Trainer Kites vs 3 Line Trainer Kites
This is a hot debate in kiteboarding today. Many kiteboarding instructors and retailer are arguing back and worth which is better. I take a neutral stance because I have used both and both work great. I know you read a lot of “hype” online but I tend to believe the writers are more motivated more by profits then informing the customer. So which is the better trainer kite setup? The ANSWER is BOTH! Honestly it all comes down to the person buying the kite. Your “Mission Drives the Gear” which means your needs are going to determine which trainer kite would better suit you. Buying a Hydra 350 when you just want something to fly with the family and teach your children is not the best buy. Below we will discuss the difference between these two trainer kite setups and hopefully inform you enough to make the best decision to make your kiteboarding progression fly!
2 Line Trainer Kite
2 line trainer kites are the most popular option in kiteboarding today. The value you get from a 2 line trainer kite is hard to match. So for performance per dollar two line trainers are king. You need to know these kites are made of the same materials and more often have the same Sail design as their 3 line brothers. The only true difference is the third optional line that helps depower and re-launches the kite. This line can be very helpful but it can also can go to waste with certain kiteboarding flying styles.3 Line Trainer Kite
3 line trainer kites are very new to the industry. The two most popular brands are HQ Power Kites, and Ozone Kites. Both brands put out an amazing product that any kiteboarding novice would be glad to add to their quiver. Ozones flagship 3 line trainer kite is the IMP and HQ Power Kites actually have two. The Rush III PRO series and the Hydra. So what makes these kites so special? The third line allows people to launch and re-launch a trainer kite by themselves. This can be a great time saver because once you crash all you can think about is getting back in the air. Kiteboarding and Trainer Kites are that addictive! The third line also helps de-power the trainer kite letting it safely tumble to the ground if the wind gets out of hand. So is this worth the premium price in my opinion sometimes no and sometimes yes.Open Cell Trainer Kites vs Closed Cell Trainer Kites
Open cell power kites have been around a lot longer than their closed cell counter parts. Open cell trainer kites are not better than closed cell trainer kites it all depends on your trainer kites application. Remember are motto at Shadeonme “Mission Drives the Gear”. This simply means your best gear choice depends on how you are going to use it. If you plan to use your kite in the water the closed cell design will be a better choice overall. If you want your best bang for your buck open cell is the way to go.
Open Cell Trainer Kites
Open cell foil kites cells stay flying by a steady a steady stream of air moving through the kites sail. This gives the kite its inflated shape. Without air being trapped the power kite is more sensitive to gusts and will not sit as far back in the wind window. Also the kite will be very fast! This design allows you to quickly setup and fly your kite but since it absorbs the air all around its sail it will also absorb water and make a water relaunch impossible. Even if you get it in the air the water can become trapped making the trainer kite un-flyable.Closed Cell Trainer Kites
Closed cell trainer kites are built with usually with two air vents. These vents trap air in the power kites sail and give the kite its “inflated shape”. The trapped air in the sail make the kite sit back further in the wind window. Since the power kite sits back further in the wind window the air makes the kite more docile, and stable to fly. These flying characteristics will be more like a true sheetable power kite and another reason why closed cells are a great option. Also since the air is trapped the trainer kites sail it is not as sensitive to gusts. This meaning the kite will not fall as fast if the wind dies down. The biggest advantage is water relaunchablity. These kites can relaunch off the water with easy even BACKWORDS. This is what makes the HQ Hydra which is the only closed cell trainer kite so popular. Flexibility and performance similar to bigger power kites.Hybrid Trainer Kites
Hybrid trainer kites are power kites that offer a truer kiteboarding experience but still being safe enough for a responsible novice kiteboarder to learn on. These so called “trainer kites” are solid performers and have an unmatched value not seen before in kiteboarding until recently. A kite, bag, bar, and lines (ready to fly) can set you back as little as $351.49 Shipped. Below is a list of our favorite Hybrid Trainer Kites.
HQ Power Kites Scout II
The Scout II by HQ Power Kites is the predecessor to the first Scout power kite. The HQ Scout II has an improved control bar and sail design. This makes the Scout II kite more stable, quicker turning, and has greater depower for safety. How this power kite differs from true trainer kites is that it has four flying lines and harness use is optional. This and its $351.49 price point make it an outstanding power kite for snowkiting, landboarding, and buggying. The only true limitation of the Scout II is water. This hybrid trainer kite is an open cell design and is not made to relaunch off the water. That still does not take anything from this kite or make it less than fantastic. The Scout II is a high performer it flys through the wind window with elegance. Its quick turning and stable flying make it a great power kite for any skill level. As a trainer kite its life span will be greatly extended as the flyer and you will not need to upgrade as soon. We have customers that absolutely love this kite for snowkiting and lanboarding see what this customer has to say.
“ I bought this kite from Shadeonme Action Sports about a month ago. This was my first power kite. I ended up going with the Scout II 4m because I wanted something that I could learn on but still have the power in heavier wind to pull me on skis. This kite fit the bill perfectly, in lighter wind it is a dream to learn on. Very easy to figure out and fly without being pulled off your feet. As you gain some comfort and the wind picks up it has more than enough power to keep you happy.”
This just proves the flexibility and performance that a “Hybrid Trainer Kite” brings to the customer. If water is not in your immediate future this trainer kite should definitely be on your radar for a possible purchase if budget allows. Remember VALUE not PRICE should always be your target when choosing your trainer kite.
“ I bought this kite from Shadeonme Action Sports about a month ago. This was my first power kite. I ended up going with the Scout II 4m because I wanted something that I could learn on but still have the power in heavier wind to pull me on skis. This kite fit the bill perfectly, in lighter wind it is a dream to learn on. Very easy to figure out and fly without being pulled off your feet. As you gain some comfort and the wind picks up it has more than enough power to keep you happy.”
This just proves the flexibility and performance that a “Hybrid Trainer Kite” brings to the customer. If water is not in your immediate future this trainer kite should definitely be on your radar for a possible purchase if budget allows. Remember VALUE not PRICE should always be your target when choosing your trainer kite.
TRAINER KITE FAQ
Why Do I Need A Trainer Kite?
Trainer kites are the only power kites that are safe enought for a Novice flyer. PLEASE NOTE: Any Power Kite can be dangerous so safety first and always take precautions before using.
What Is The Most Popular Trainer Kite?
There never is just one trainer kite for everybody but read above our FIVE RECOMMENDED TRAINER KITES to find our most popular and recommend options.
What Does 2m, 3m, 350 Mean?
Trainer kite models and sizes can be very confusing for even the most seasoned of kiteboarders. Usually a 2m means that the flat area of the kite is 2 square meters. Then some manufactures round up keeping your money while you get less product. To be sure of the size you are getting read above our TRAINER KITE COMPARISION CHART.
How Long Before I Am Ready For A True Sheetable Power Kite?
This depends on you! Your knowledge, confidence (not cockiness, cockiness gets kiters hurt or worse) and skill progression will be the deciding factors. With most people lots of hours logged on their trainer, several comprehensive lessons, studying (DVD), practice of safety and proper kite setup will suffice. Some kiteboarders will require less and some much more. When your ready ask the PASA Instructor who gave you lessons. No one better then the certified professional who taught you to let you know if you are ready.
Why Should I Buy From You?
My favorite question! Its your money and I can make a big spiel of why I am so great and everyone sucks. First ask yourself who’s guide are reading? Who has the best value? Who is not trying to upsell me? Long story short we do not just sell products we endorse them and if we do not have the best price or value email or call us. We have not lost a customer yet to price.
Can I Kiteboard / Kitesurf With A Trainer Kite?
The fast answer is no you can’t the power needed to generate a deep water start is tremendous. Trainer kites are not usually made to go in water right? Well the HQ Hydra 350 trainer kite breaks some rules. Its a huge trainer kite with tons of power and loves the water. The only trainer kite that can relaunch backwards on the water. Also it has been known to deep water start an individual as seen in this VIDEO. I do not recommend it or believe the average person can kitesurf with the HYDRA 350 or 300 trainer kite but if you can I will not doubt you, it has been done before.
Are Trainer Kites Hard to Fly?
Most trainer kites are built to easy to learn flyers. Most complaints of people that have trouble flying kites go in to little wind and never do any learning. Thats I highly recommend The Progression Beginner DVD it teaches you trainers and more!
Are They Durable?
Quality trainer kites are made to last. But like anything misuse and accidents happen. Taking a 1.4 Meter trainer kite in 60MPH winds is going to destroy the kite. In the event you have any problems with your kite contact us and we will find a solution for you.
Can I Fly By Myself?
Yes and No, some people fly trainer kites by themselves with no problems. Some need more assistance then others. Just depends on the flyer, but its more fun with friends anyways so bring one or the whole family.
What Happens When My Trainer Kite Crashes In The Water?
If you have a Hydra Trainer Kite just launch it back in the air and smile. If not, no problem kites do not melt well if you buy a cheepo off eBay it might lol. Seriously, a lot of kites feature dirt outs to expel water and debris. But even if your trainer kite does not shake it out and let it air dry it will be fine.
How Much Do I Need To Spend?
Buy whats in your budget and meets your goals. It’s as simple as that. If you need more help email or call us.
TRAINER KITE CONCLUSION
Now that you have read our trainer kite guide we hope that this helps you to make the best purchase for your needs. Below is a list of frequently asked questions. Remember kiting doesn’t have to be a wallet draining experience. A lot of fun, great exercise and learning can come from even the most modest of kites. The ShadeOnMe family just asks you to enjoy your experience and if you have any questions please Contact Us!
