The most expensive mistake beginners make
Every season someone arrives at the course having already bought equipment before learning. Kite, board, harness, wetsuit. Several thousand euros in gear they don't know how to use yet. Sometimes the equipment is wrong for their weight or the local wind. Sometimes it's more advanced than anyone can handle while learning.
The most cost-effective advice I can give you about kitesurfing equipment is this: don't buy anything until you've finished the course. Learn first. Buy second. Everything you need for the course is provided by the school.
What the school provides
In a beginner course, the school provides everything necessary:
- Training kite: usually a small kite (2–4 square metres) for the first hours of land practice, where you learn kite movement without excessive force.
- Practice kite: a larger kite (9–12 square metres) for water sessions once you have basic control.
- Control bar: included with the kite. This is where you control the kite with your hands.
- Harness: the waist or seat harness that distributes the kite's pull across your body. The school has sizes for all builds.
- Board: usually a large, stable twintip (140cm or more) that makes it easier to get up and maintain balance.
- Wetsuit: in El Médano in summer not strictly necessary, but the school has them available if you prefer.
What to bring to the course
The school handles the gear, but a few personal items make a real difference to comfort:
- High-factor waterproof sunscreen: you'll be in the sun on the water for several hours.
- Water shoes or neoprene boots: protect your feet and improve grip on the board.
- Lycra or rashguard: protects arms and back from sun and wetsuit chafing.
What to buy after the course
If you finish the course and want to continue, it's time to gear up. The key is not to rush and not to buy more than you need for the next level.
The kite
The kite is the most important and most expensive element. For someone who has just learned, the best option is a mid-range kite of 9 to 12 square metres. For El Médano's summer wind, a 10 or 12-metre kite is very versatile.
Well-known brands — Cabrinha, North, Duotone, Core, Slingshot — all make excellent kites across price ranges. You don't need the most expensive model to enjoy the sport. A mid-range kite from these brands will last several years with proper care.
New: €700 to €1,400. Second-hand in good condition: €300 to €700.
The control bar
The bar connects your hands to the kite and carries the integrated quick release safety system. The bar must be compatible with the kite you have. New: €200–€400. Second-hand: €100–€200.
The harness
Two types: waist and seat. Waist harnesses are more popular and allow more movement. Seat harnesses are more comfortable for long sessions and for people with lower back issues. For getting started, any mid-range waist harness from Ion, Mystic or Dakine works well. New: €100–€300. Second-hand: €50–€150.
The board
For the first months of independent practice, a twintip between 135 and 145cm is most comfortable. Larger boards are more stable and easier to get on. As you progress you can go smaller. New: €400–€800. Second-hand: €150–€350.
The second-hand rule
If you've just graduated from the course and want to gear up without overspending, the kitesurfing second-hand market is solid. Facebook groups, local boards at El Médano and specialist sites can turn up complete setups in good condition for €800 to €1,500.
One condition: have the equipment checked by someone who knows what they're looking at before buying. Kite lines and canopy wear, safety systems need verifying. If you're not sure what to look for, bring it to the school and we'll check it with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy equipment before the course?
No. The school provides everything: kite, control bar, harness, board and wetsuit if needed. You don't need to spend anything on equipment before knowing whether the sport is for you.
How much does a complete kitesurfing setup cost?
A complete new setup (kite + bar + harness + board) costs between €2,000 and €4,000 depending on brands. Second-hand in good condition can be found for €800 to €1,500. For getting started after the course, the second-hand market is the smartest option.
What kite size does a beginner need?
For learning at El Médano with summer wind, a 9 to 12 square metre kite is most versatile. The exact size depends on your weight and wind strength. Your instructor will advise on what to buy when you finish the course.
Is there a difference between learning kites and practice kites?
Yes. School kites are designed to be stable and easy to relaunch — they forgive mistakes. Performance kites have more power and response but less margin for error. For the first months of independent practice, mid-range kites are the best option.