To get into mountain kite boarding, you are best to start off with something fun and easy to ride. We recommend the MBS range of boards for their fine quality, robust construction and rideability. Couple these with Ozone Access 2 XC depowerable kites and away you go.
The main differences between kitesurfing and kite mountain boarding is the ride is smoother and more quiet on the mountain board, there is also a more direct feel to direction as there is no leeway or side slip, this makes it easier to ride back upwind. The next thing you'll notice is the dramatic accelleration and speed. Because there is no overcoming the drag of getting out of the water, the power is instantly converted to forward speed and can be quite daunting and certainly thrilling.
Rolling friction is far less than water friction and so, if left unchecked, speed can quickly gain the upper hand. It is a worth while investment to buy a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads and wear good protective clothing.
The perfect way to improve your kiteboarding skills due to kite skill being more critical in mountain boarding with a kite. The challenge to ride well on a mountain board is intoxicating when it all comes together and you start riding faster and power sliding in the turns. Quite a rush! It only takes about half an hour to master the art of slowing down on a mountainboard and after that, the fun just doesnt stop.
For less than the cost of an inflateable kite, of equal power, you can get a board, harness and kite and be rolling in no time.
Mountain boards can vary in price from $349 ( for a kids board) to $859 (top-of-the-line signature model pro board), but a good mid range board can cost as little as around $400-$500 brand new or about half the price of a new kiteboard.
For kiteboarders, the familiar knowledge of kite dynamics and riding feel will make the transition to land boarding quick and exciting. This is the perfect sport for those who like the idea of kitesurfing but live far from the beach. Similar tricks can be done on a mountain board as can be done on a kiteboard.
Something worth exploring! Watch for upcoming demo days of Ozone land kites and MBS mountain boards.
