• Third Party insurance - please see our eBay guide "Power Kiting - Third Party Insurance" for details
• Ground stake
• Kite Killers
• Helmet
• Knee & Elbow Pads
• Back & Body Protection
• Clothing and others

Ground stake

A ground stake is possibly the most essential piece of extra equipment you will need.  It is used to secure your kite while it is on the ground. This is useful while you are setting up, or just taking a break. 

Your handles will have loops opposite the brake leaders, or loops in the break leader themselves.  The stake goes through these loops, and by keeping the brakes under tension keeps the kite securely on the ground.  The kite will usually just sit there half inflated, but if it starts to move or flap you might need to stake out using more brake tension, or weight down the trailing edge of the kite with sand or smooth stones or water bottles/cans.

You can use many things as a stake, the key thing is that it is strong, wide and long enough to hold the kite securely.  So while you can use a large tent peg or screwdriver in firm ground.  In sand or soft ground you should use a large quarter round 1 inch wide, 10 inch+ long sand stake, or maybe a corkscrew "dog" type anchor.  The local pound shop is usually a good source.

Whatever stake you use, be safe and be seen.  Tie bright ribbon or plastic strip to the peg, so you can find it and others can avoid it.  It is best if you don't leave stakes in the ground, take them with you, in a leg or belt holster or attach them to the buggy.

Kite Killers

Kite killers are essential safety equipment and should always be worn when learning or flying static.  They are made up of Velcro wristbands and have a cord which connects via a larkshead knot to the brake lines, as far up the brake leaders as the Killer cords will allow.  The Killers should NOT be attached to the ground stake loops at the back of the handles, as this does not apply enough brake input to bring down the kite safely.

If you lose control of the kite, or the pull is too much and you let go of your kite the brakes will be applied, and the kite will come down in a controlled away without it heading at high speed across the flying site. 

Helmet

You only get one head, so use it and protect it.  While you might be feel safe static flying without one, as soon as you start jumping, or using a board or buggy you should wear a helmet.

Don't use cycling or skate style helmets as they are rarely up to the impacts.

Helmets as used by Wakeboarding (e.g. Protec Wake) of Motor cross style full face helmet (preferably ACU approved ones), offer good protection for £35 to £60.

Whatever helmet you choose please ensure its a good fit, and you wear the strap done up correctly.

Knee & Elbow Pads

These are sensible protection if you are using a landboard or freestyling in a buggy.  Buy the best you can afford and make sure they fit well.  For landboarding shin protection can also be considered.

Back & Body Protection

This is often worn by experienced and freestyle boarders and buggiers.   If your pushing the limits, then it pays to buy quality well fitting kit that will both protect and last a long time.

Clothing and others ..

Footwear is down to personal choice.  While smooth soled shoes are great for sliding while scudding, ankle support is also important.  Unfortunately many boots with ankle support often have deep grip.  Flat soled boots are ideal. 

Gloves are another subject that divides opinion.  Some people like the padding and protection, others prefer the direct feel and grip without gloves.   Fingerless cycling mitts and sailing "rigger" type gloves with neoprene backs are worth considering, if you find your hands cold or aching.

A pair of PVC waterproof trousers can provide effective protection, while allowing sliding without friction burns

Its also a very wise idea to empty your pockets before flying.  A bunch of keys can lead to significant injury if you land hard on it.  

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