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KITE FACTS
Kites today are cheap, made of reinforced nylon and don't tear.
The first kite shown is the classic Diamond. It won't fly because the tail is too short. You'll just get spiraling. Remember the bow ties used on newspaper kites, those were heavy and added drag allowing the kite to rise straight in a good wind. Many cheap but good kites on ebay won't fly because of short tails. Make the bowties or cut garbage bags into strips about 2 1/2 " wide taping the length about 20 ft. or more, this will stabilize the kite. Also what wind speed in MPH (miles per hour) is needed for the kite you are buying. Many sellers don't indicate this or don't know because it is shipped from a supplier. It's usually written on the kite packing...Ask the Seller.
The second kite shown is the Para foil. This design needs very little wind so tails are needed if you have medium wind. Use this in light wind days unless it is a huge Para Foil.
The third kit shown is the Delta. It is best all around and can fly until the cord is completely vertical letting you run up special kite toys up the cord.
There are also cheap box type or airplane type etc. All are light wind kites.
The cheap kits are fun but serious kites are usually custom made with aluminum frames.
Remember
Because we don't control the wind, we learn to watch for the right kite flying conditions.
Wind that is too strong or too light is difficult to fly in. A flag or windsock is handy to help you see the wind. About 5-25 mph light wind is best for most kites (when leaves and bushes start to move, but before it really starts to blow).
Flying is most fun when the wind is medium so you can do more than just hold on. You can make your kite dance across the sky by pulling in and letting out the line.
Flying Space should be a clear, open area. Stay away from roads, power lines or airports. Open fields, parks and beaches are great for flying kites. The more room you have, the more line you can let out.
Remember that as the wind goes over and around trees and buildings, it gets bumpy and difficult to fly kites in. Watch out for kite eating trees!
No Storms: Never fly in rain or lightening. Electricity in clouds is attracted to damp kite lines and foolish kite fliers.
Guide created: 08/19/07 (updated 06/14/09)
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