Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT ARE THE CONDITIONS LIKE FOR KITESURFING ON MAUI?
Maui has the most consistent winds, warm year round climate and water temperatures, making it the number one most revisited island in the world for a reason! The most consistent winds are during the northern hemispheres Summer months ranging from June till September. Most chances to score wind is during these three amazing months of trade winds on flat water. The waves go down but the winds come up! The Winter months range from November till April. During this time, the waves on the north shores are the biggest and most consistent. Winds can vary from long dry spells to very strong 40knots! When all the elements line up you can kite in the worlds biggest waves with the strongest winds!
WHERE CAN I CHECK THE WEATHER FORECAST FOR WIND & WAVES?
You can check out the current forecasts here.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO LEARN KITING?
As long as it takes! Kiting is a mix bag of sports, a little sailing, wakeboarding, surfing, windsurfing, and even snowboarding, therefore everyone has a different learning experience depending on their sports background.
DOES KITING TAKE A LOT OF UPPER BODY STRENGTH?
No. You will be wearing a harness that the kite attaches to. Kiting is a finesse sport not a strength sport. You can use your fingers to power the kite and jump to the moon! I know a woman who is 75 that kites everyday there is wind!
IS IT DANGEROUS?
Without proper instruction it can be very dangerous. Do not let your buddy of significant other teach you. Learning to teach someone how to kite is an art in itself, there are pro kiters who aren’t good teachers. Selecting a skilled and experienced instructor is crucial to ensure safety in and out of the water.
how much does it cost to get a gear set up?
If buying used gear, it roughly cost $1500 USD to get your first basic set up.
How many kites will I need?
A quiver of two kites is ideal. One for light wind, one for strong wind. Three kites is the best combo if you can afford it. Do some research on the average wind speed where you'll do most of your kiting. Your instructor can help you decide.
What do I need to bring for my first lesson?
Just your swim suit, reef safe sunscreen, and maybe a short wetsuit if you get cold easily. The winter months can be a little cooler. If you’re a thin female a spring suit would be helpful during the winter months. The wind blowing while you’re wet can cause you to shiver and once you shiver then your focus will fade.
Do you teach kids?
Minimum age is 10, however I encourage you to wait until your child is around 12. There are always exceptions to any rule. Kids may enjoy the tandem kite experience more than a lesson. Surfing is a great option for kids!
Are there sharks?
The ocean is where they live! I've been kiting and body dragging around Kanaha for a decade and never had an issue with sharks. They have come by here and there but never showed aggression. If a shark does show up during your lesson I would gladly let you know and you can decide. I may not want to go out there either!
How long are the lessons?
Your first lesson is 3 hours. After that lesson you should plan for at least two to three hours. For some people three hours is a bit much. Maui True North is the only kite school on Maui that offers the two hours lesson! Other companies will try to sell you three hours only! After two hours most people get tired, start to make mistakes or just not enjoy it as much. We are flexible! Leaving the lesson on a high note is important! There are some who want to go all day but that is rare! Plus the time commitment during a vacation is another factor. A lesson from 11-1 won't take up as much of your day!
Do you have radios?
Yes! We use BBtalkin two way headsets so you will never feel left alone out there! They are state of the art equipment and you can talk to us while your in the water!
Do you offer foil lessons?
Yes, we do. Please contact us for details.
WHERE CAN I get MAUI TRUE NORTH HATS AND SHIRTS from?
You can either order using our form, or ask us about it at your lesson! If you’d like to try it on, Adventure Sports Maui sells a selection of our Merchandise. Mention Maui True North for a discount!