Unique wind conditions
July 2021 was the first edition of what became a traditional short vacation at lake Garda during spring season. The wind conditions are unique and one of the reasons we keep on coming back. In the course of the day you can experience 2 winds from opposing directions. Nature is really kind at this lake of northern Italy to often allow a 2-3 hour lunch break between changing sides.
Pelèr
The Pelèr is a strong and rough wind coming in from the north during the early morning hours. There is no better way to start your day than waking up to kitesurf these wavy conditions.
Ora
The Ora is a smooth wind coming in from the south after lunch break from the south. Compared to the Pelèr wind it is usually a bit lighter but less gusty. It allows kiters to have unforgettable sunset sessions.
Boat rides in wet suits
To kitesurf at lake Garda it is pretty common be taken to the spot in the northern part of the lake by boat (shuttle). Kite is being unpacked, pumped and started from the boat and in reverse order for going back to the shore. After each session the bars are being detached and kites are lined up to get dry in the sun.
For beginners it is a save playground to practice and improve the skills without the typical landside starting and landing hazards or obstacles like trees, rocks, reefs etc. Additionally there is a lot of space in the middle of the lake. When the wind power drops the shuttle boats all of their kiters up and bring them back to the station.
On the downside if you start from scratch learning the do’s and don’t for starting and landing the kite are crucial to become an advanced kiter and to be able to enjoy different spots.
Gain height
At this vacation we had a lot of sessions which helped me to progress on my kite abilities. Especially the one I was struggling a lot before: gaining height.
Through feedback from the kite instructors I managed to improve edging with the board, my stance – weight distribution approximately 60% on the back foot and 40% on the front foot – and through holding the bar with one hand only opening my shoulders towards an upwind direction.
After each session I could reconstruct if gaining height was successful due to the tracking options of my sports watch. With these zig zag lines it was easy to tell which angles worked and which not. Having mastered this skills I was now allowed to kitesurf without supervision from the instructor and therefore the sessions cost a lot less.
Theory and practice
One further step to ensure safer kiting is learning the fundamental theories, safety measures and rules of kitesurfing. This lecture in combination with the practical skills the instructor observed was rewarded by the VDWS certificate. A multi-level license to proof you’re a reliable kiter. It sometimes is required to allow you to rent gear and equipment at stores or schools.
Earning this license was another puzzle piece of becoming an experienced kitesurfer.