Windwing Skyfoil ($98 to $524):
You've logged time as a snow slider or a kitesurfer, maybe carving up H2O in both its liquid and frozen forms. And now you're jonesing to put it all together in snowkiting, a hybridized huckfest where elements of sailing, windsurfing, skiing, and 'boarding converge. Job one: you'll need to decide on what type and size of breeze-buster to purchase—inflatable or foil kite, small or large? Each choice has its strengths and weaknesses, and based on our trusted sources we opt for a non-inflatable like the two-line Skyfoil series. This foil design kicks because it's simple to set up, simple to use, and it's the most efficient type of kite, providing maximum oomph per square inch of sail surface area. And yes, size DOES matter. Depending on the riding surface, a Lilliputian two-meter wingspan will propel an average rider at a breakneck clip. You can bump up to a 4.8-meter monster, too, but this strays well outside of beginner/intermediate territory and could dangerously overpower an inexperienced rider. Skyfoils are designed to fly in trad two-line mode with an optional third brake line. Their truncated, semi-elliptical form provides maximum stability at a low angle of attack, while the bridle design lends support and added stability for smooth snow cruising. Top-notch construction with webbed and taped inlets, plus military-spec Dyneema, gives you a kite that'll go the distance. And all Skyfoil kites come complete with lines and a bar (models three meters and larger also have brakes), harness loop, leash, carrying bag, instructional video—basically the essential rig sans harness. Contact 541-386-3861, www.windwing.com.
The Kite | 
