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Sutton Flow Forms
Kite-powered kayaking is best done in a boat with a stern rudder (if there is no rudder a paddle will do the job just as well), a cleat epoxied forward of the cockpit and a single-line kite. The cleat tethers the kite, freeing the kayakers hands and keeping the center of pull forward so one does not get drug sideways.
A powerful and stable kite is recommended for kite kayaking or pulling a canoe. Single line Sutton Flow Form parafoils have proven to be among the best for water as they have vents through the cells and out the back to let water drain and a very simple three-leg bridle.
Crashing the kite into the water is no problem. The kite deflates immediately and can be quickly pulled back hand-over-hand. Shake the water off, hold the kite up in the wind and away it flies. The Sutton Flow Form also sports two tail attachment points for added stability in gusty conditions.
Ideal Wind Conditions
Medium winds (10-12 mph) are the best for kites. In lighter winds the proper kite can add a few knots to speed and still allow the kayaker to move up to 45 degrees (or so) off downwind. In higher winds, once white caps first appear in open water, one does not need the hassle of a kite added to the situation.
The general rule is a bigger size kite for traction power in lighter breezes and smaller kites for those stronger wind days. Often a kayaker will have two kite sizes (for different wind conditions) and one 200# line on a yo-yo winder.
All Sutton Flow Forms include a stuff sack. The Sutton 8 includes Flying Line and Winder. Flying line and winder sold separately for the Sutton 16 and Sutton 30.
Kayaking with a Kite
