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May 115 min read

Wind Direction and Speed for Kitesurfing Explained

Q: What is the minimum wind for kitesurfing?

Typically, the minimum wind for kitesurfing and being able to ride upwind is around 12 knots. The ability to kitesurf in low wind conditions depends on factors such as the kitesurfer's weight, the size of the kite, the type of board used, and most importantly, the level of the rider. In recent years however, the advent of foil boards has made it possible for kitesurfers to enjoy very low wind sessions (while still having a whole lot of fun!) with a regular-sized kite. **An experienced kitesurfer, with a foil board and a 12 sqm kite, can ride in as little as 8 to 9 knots** if the sea is calm and flat.

Q: Can you kitesurf upwind?

Yes, you can kitesurf upwind. To do so, you need the right amount of speed and to build pressure on your rear leg. Riding upwind becomes easier with more wind and the right technique. Practicing upwind riding is essential for returning to your starting point without drifting downwind. If you’re looking to improve your riding skills, check out this post where we share [top tips about learning how to ride upwind](https://www.surfwaze.com/post/10-key-steps-to-riding-solo).

Q: What is the best wind speed for kitesurfing?

The best wind speed for kitesurfing is between 16 and 25 knots. This range offers the most versatility in terms of kite size and riding conditions. It is suitable for freeriding, performing tricks, and jumps, all the while remaining safe. For beginners, slightly lower wind speeds, around 12-16 knots, are recommended but remain ideal to practice riding upwind. Check out our guide to [beginner kitesurfing spots](https://www.surfwaze.com/spots/beginner) for more information.

Q: What is the best wind direction for kitesurfing?

**The best wind direction for kitesurfing is side-shore or side-onshore**. These directions allow kitesurfers to ride perpendicular to the shore and make it very easy to return to the beach if needed. Onshore winds are also good but can be challenging for beginners in spots with shore breaks where entering and exiting the water can be difficult. Offshore winds are not recommended for beginners due to the risk of being blown out to sea.

Updated: Aug 26

Understanding the nuances of wind direction in kitesurfing is key, as wind direction (and speed) plays a pivotal role in determining the success and safety of your kitesurfing session. In this guide, we dive into the various wind directions in kitesurfing: onshore, side-onshore, side-shore, side-offshore, and offshore. Additionally, we cover the different wind speed units used to forecast wind, and answer some frequently asked questions about wind for kitesurfing. Let’s dive right in!

Here's a chart that highlights the different winds in kitesurfing. Read on for detailed explanations.

A visual representation of the different wind directions — Chart of wind directions in kitesurfing. Picture credit © Sessions Sports

Kitesurfing Wind Direction

Onshore Winds

Onshore winds blow from the water towards the shore, making them ideal for beginners and intermediate kitesurfers. If you drop your kite and can't relaunch it, the wind will drag you back to the beach. Onshore winds are typically characterized by their consistency, providing a stable and comfortable riding experience.

However, in kite spots with shore breaks, beginners need to be cautious to avoid being pushed onto the beach or any other obstacles.

Side-Onshore Winds

Side-onshore winds blow diagonally from the water towards the shore, creating favorable conditions for kitesurfing. This is usually the best wind for kitesurfing as it blows at a 45º angle, allowing easier upwind riding and a return to shore if your kite drops. This makes it a suitable wind direction for all kitesurfing levels.

Side-Shore Winds

Side-shore winds blow parallel to the shoreline. This is generally a safe wind direction, although it is recommended for less experienced kitesurfers to ride closer to the shoreline. Should you drop your kite in the water, you should always try to relaunch it on the land side of the wind window to ensure you are dragged towards the shore and not open water.

Side-Offshore Winds

Side-offshore winds blow diagonally from the land towards the open water. These winds require advanced kitesurfing skills and preferably a boat/jet ski rescue service to avoid drifting out to sea. Generally, side-offshore winds are more gusty and turbulent than onshore or side-onshore winds as the air mass passes over obstacles on land.

Offshore Winds

Offshore winds blow from land towards the open water, presenting the most challenging and often not recommended conditions for kitesurfing. These winds pose significant risks of drifting away into open water and are generally more gusty and turbulent. They require advanced riding skills and preferably a boat/jet ski rescue service.

For advanced riders, offshore winds provide ideal conditions for performing big air tricks such as kiteloops and high jumps with board-off tricks. If you’re interested in finding the best big air kitesurfing spots, check out our dedicated guide.

Kitesurfer performing a big air kiteloop. — Kitesurfer performing a big air kiteloop at the Redbull King of the Air. Picture credit © Redbull

Kitesurfing Wind Speed

Understanding wind speed is crucial for kitesurfing as it allows kitesurfers to determine the appropriate kite and board size to use for any given session. The stronger the wind, the smaller the kite needed, and vice versa.

Wind speed is measured in various units, including knots (kts), Beauforts, or meters per second (m/s). Each unit provides valuable information for assessing conditions, but knots are most commonly used in kitesurfing (and sailing). The Beaufort scale is also commonly referenced in weather reports.

Wind Speed Chart

The table below compares wind speeds in knots, Beaufort, meters per second, kilometers per hour, and miles per hour:

Description	Beaufort	Knots (kts)	Meters per second (m/s)	Kilometers per hour (km/h)	Miles per hour (mph)
Calm	0	0-1	0-0.5	0-1.8	0-1.1
Light Air	1	1-3	0.5-1.5	1.8-5.5	1.1-3.4
Light Breeze	2	4-6	1.6-3.3	5.6-11.9	3.5-7.5
Gentle Breeze	3	7-10	3.4-5.4	12.0-19.7	7.6-12.3
Moderate Breeze	4	11-16	5.5-7.9	19.8-28.8	12.4-18.3
Fresh Breeze	5	17-21	8.0-10.7	28.9-38.9	18.4-24.2
Strong Breeze	6	22-27	10.8-13.8	39.0-49.9	24.3-31.0
Near Gale	7	28-33	13.9-17.1	50.0-61.2	31.1-38.1
Gale	8	34-40	17.2-20.7	61.3-74.0	38.2-46.3
Strong Gale	9	41-47	20.8-24.4	74.1-87.0	46.4-54.4

Kitesurfing Wind FAQ

What is the minimum wind for kitesurfing?

Can you kitesurf upwind?

What is the best wind speed for kitesurfing?

What is the best wind direction for kitesurfing?

Wrap up

Know your wind directions: onshore, side-onshore, side-shore, side-offshore, and offshore.
Onshore and side-onshore are the safest wind directions for beginners.
Offshore and side-offshore winds are for advanced kitesurfers only.
The ideal wind speed for kitesurfing is between 16 and 25 knots. For beginners, it is slighlty lower between 12 and 16 knots.
Wind speed is measured in various units, with knots being the most commonly used.