FAQ
Why should I take a kiteboarding lesson?
The most important reason is to prevent injury. Kiteboarding can be a dangerous sport and the last thing you want to do is injure yourself, or someone else. Not only do you risk injury, you risk the possibility of damaging your new gear without the proper training. Let’s face it, kiteboarding can be expensive and why tear up your new equipment when you can learn from us and use our gear! Never kite alone or without proper instruction!
What should I bring to a lesson?
The most important thing you can bring to a lesson is a positive attitude and the willingness to learn. Like anything, kiteboarding takes knowledge, practice and patience. There are several items that may make your lesson more enjoyable. We recommend bringing board shorts, a rash guard, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a towel, sandals or flip flops, portable shade/ez-up, camping chair, lots of water and any snacks you might need.
Who can learn to kiteboard?
Kiteboarding is a great family sport and anyone can learn to kiteboard. You don’t have to be physically strong or in great shape to learn. You just need to know how to swim, be comfortable in the water and have the willingness to learn. We've instructed teenagers to senior citizens!
What equipment will I need after my lesson?
You will need a kite board, a kite (including lines and bar), a pump and a harness. We recommend a helmet and an impact vest, which offers flotation. You can never be to safe and overlook your safety gear or equipment! Other than the basics you may find other accessories that you can't fly without once you begin kiting.
Can I buy kiteboarding gear from you? Yes, we offer a full line of gear from kites to boards and clothing to get started. We also offer trainer kites and videos to better equip you. Kiteboarding is a individual sport, so the size kite, type of board and other accessories you will need will vary on weather conditions, type of riding and individual preference.
What should I know about Lake McConaughy?
Lake McConaughy is a Nebraska State Park, so you will need to purchase a parks pass. The passes are available at the park office located 1/2 mile south of the dam on Hwy 61. A pass must be purchased before you enter the park and prior to showing up to The Kite Ranch for your lesson. You must purchase a pass for each day you enter the park or camp if you plan to stay overnight. Daily park passes and camping passes are cheap, but if you plan to visit Lake McConaughy on a more frequent basis we recommend you purchase an annual parks pass to save money in the long run. The lake is patrolled by park rangers daily and they will give you a ticket for violating park rules and not carrying a valid pass. There are several parks rules and regulations about drinking, pets, camping, etc that you should be familiar with before you enter the park.
Why The Kite Ranch?
Because we are Kiter’s just like you. Kiting is our passion and our goal is to pass our passion for kiting along to you. Our instructor to student ratio is kept low so we can focus on you and your learning curve. Our instructors are also PASA certified and it is our mission to provide a safe and fun learning environment for our students. We pride ourselves on customer service and put your kiting needs first.
