Christmas Shopping for Kiteboarders
The ol' Santi Claus might have a new
kind of sleigh this year?
kind of sleigh this year?
Chances are you know someone who'd love some kiteboarding gifts this Christmas, but its always so hard to know what to buy!
Here's a list of Xmas gift ideas for that kiteboarder you know.
Remember to check out our site sponsors websites, and browse the Seabreeze Shop - it might save you from the crazy christmas shopping crowds at your local shopping centre!
Under $50
Kiteboarding has been around for long enough to allow some cheaper items to sneak into the market, so you don't have to spend a fortune on kiteboarding gifts anymore! Here's a couple of cheap presents that won't break any budget.
Floaty strap for sunglasses
Everyone has their favourite pair of sunnies, and if those sunnies don't happen to have a built in strap - get them one of these so they never lose their shades.
Kiteboarding DVD's
There's stacks on offer at the moment and they're all under $50. Check out the Progression series of DVD's for instructional stuff. Or have a look at action titles like 'Land of Lahara' and 'Broken Water' for some inspirational riding.
Surf Hat
They might not look 'cool', but surf hats are a great way to keep the sun off while you're out kitesurfing. With a simple little chin strap, they stay on your head through the gnarliest of stacks.
Rashie
A rashie is a must-have for any kiteboarder, there's stacks of styles and colors to choose from, so make sure you pick something that suits them! It's probably a good idea to see if they prefer a short or long sleeve version first.
Small repair kit
Kites get puntures, and boards get scratched, so having a little repair kit on hand is always handy. For that added touch, personalize the repair kit and get specific colours of repair tape to match their kite! You can also add bladder repair tape, cable ties, one-pump hoses and some knead-able epoxy for board repairs.
Pump
Kite pumps have a life span of around 12 months depending on use and if they're treated properly, and having a spare pump on hand can be a life saver. They'll cost you around $45, or a little more for one with a pump guage.
Under $100
For someone you care a little more about, the under $100 bracket is a great one for kiteboarding gifts. There's way more options than we can list here, so here's the best ones.
Anemometer
Or a wind meter for short, gives an accurate measurement of the wind strength, temperate and wind chill. It's funny, people say 'ohhh, you don't need one of those!" But as soon as anyone holds their Anemometer in the air, they've got an instant crowd of friends asking what the wind strength is. They're extremely useful; especially while you're learning how to kiteboard.
Seabreeze Sunnies
Sunglasses designed for watersports just work better, they float - don't fog up and are usually polarised to help you see under water. They even come in a hard case to protect them! The Seabreeze sunnies are a must have for any kiteboarder.
Kiteboarding Trial Lesson
Many shops have a one hour trial lesson for around $100. While you won't get onto a board in these lessons, you will get to fly a real kiteboarding kite in the water, and by the end of it - you'll know whether or not they like the sport.
Kite related clothing or accessories
Kiteboarding branded clothing is hard to come by, so find some tee shirts and wrap 'em up. If you're not sure of their size, maybe a sweet beach towel or change bag? Most kiteboarding companies also have a range of hats, wallets or even headphones - All under $100.
Waterproof bag
Don't leave your loved ones waiting at the beach when their car gets stolen, the wheel arch isn't a great place to hide your keys! Get 'em a waterproof pouch and they can lock up the car properly. You can also get phones, cash or other useful stuff in there!
Hydration pack
Keeping hydrated is a must out on the water, so a Camelbak style pack is great for kiteboarders on the go. A 1.5 - 2L pack is plenty for most kiters and keeps the weight down to a minimum.
Over $100
Over a hundred big ones will get you some great presents for kiteboarders, including some lessons!
GoPro camera
The ultimate in watersports cameras. They take photos as well as video too, so you don't have to sit around editing all night. The GoPro doesn't really need a description though - it's awesome, they just released the new GoPo HD2, buy one and you can't go wrong.
Kiteboarding lessons
You're never too good for a kitesurfing lesson or two. All kite schools offer gift vouchers and most have an instructor who will take advanced lessons.
A new kiteboard
The big one, if you want to go all out, buy them a new board! Make sure you quiz them on what kind of board they actually want and what they're upgrading from. If you're not sure about what to buy, have a chat to your local shop - they'll be happy to help you out!
So there you have it - heaps of idea's for kiteboarding presents this Christmas! If you need more ideas, check out the kiteboarding forums for some personal advice, and if all else fails - drop by the nearest kitesurfing store and pick up a gift voucher. Most stores offer them in any value and then your special someone will get to choose their own goodies.

