Kiteboarding Harnesses Define Your Surfing Experience

One of the most crucial pieces of equipment for kitesurfing is your harness. It connects you to the kite bar and transfers the kite's force to your body. Kite harnesses are designed to be durable, strong, and sturdy to withstand the kite and wind's power.

When selecting a harness, it’s essential that it fits comfortably and securely. Wearing an uncomfortable harness will likely make the entire kite experience far less enjoyable. Each harness is sized differently, so check the product’s size guide to ensure you get the right fit. Kite harnesses are available in unisex, as well as male and female models, to provide an optimal fit.

Seat Harnesses vs Waist Harnesses

One of the most significant decisions you need to make is choosing between a seat and waist harness. There’s no wrong choice, but it does impact your kite surfing experience.

Seat Harness

Kiteboarding seat harnesses are the original style of harness. They are larger and come with straps that wrap around your legs. The harness sits lower on your body, meaning you have a lower pull point and lower center of gravity. This design makes it better suited for beginners and long-distance racers.

Waist Harness

Waist harnesses come without leg straps and sit higher on your torso. This provides more freedom of movement and greater maneuverability for stunts and tricks. They are also more comfortable to wear. With waist harnesses, it’s harder to maintain a low center of gravity, but it's easier to keep an upright position.

Eager to learn more about the equipment you should get for kitesurfing? Head over to our Buying Kitesurfing Gear guide to read more.