Wind Theory for Kiteboarding and Kitesurfing
". . . its just wind, it blows all over the place."
If we understand how wind works, we can harness it, and adapt to it,
because it will not adapt to us. Above all, wherever you plan on
kiteboarding, make sure you research the area you plan on riding, look
at the area around you, asses the wind conditions, and decide if
everything matches your ability, gear, and amount of risk you are
willing to accept.
To The Point:
When wind hits any object, it changes direction and becomes less predictable; try not to be upwind or downwind of any obstacles. When wind is squeezed though a smaller area, it increases in speed.
The Detailed Explanation:
Venturi effect
Wind acts very
similar to water. The Venturi effect happens when wind is squeezed
into a smaller space, and consequently, the wind increases in speed.
The reverse is also true. When wind becomes less confined, it slows in
its speed. This is just like water moving through a hose. When the
hose has a large opening, the water flows slowly and pours onto the
ground. When your thumb, or a sprayer nozzle constricts the hose
opening, the water comes out much faster.
Wind Obstructions When
wind hits an object it changes directing based on the shape and size of
that object. If you have large objects "upwind" of where you are
flying a kite, the wind will be disturbed and that disturbed wind will
have an effect on your kite. Roughly, this disturbed wind can last
horizontally from the object, up to ten times the vertical height of
the object.
Objects "downwind" of where you are flying a kite can,
roughly, disturb wind horizontally, upwind from the object, up to three
times it's vertical height.
Areas where there are mountains near the shore, can be a dangerous place for updrafts and thermals.
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