self rescue strapless question

[edented]

I've recently started riding a surfboard but have yet to self rescue with it.

What do you do with the board in low wind (eg. dropping the kite inside at Crissy or 3rd), or high wind assuming you still have the board within reach?

Do you put it on your feet between yourself and the mess of winding? sit and straddle? have a small loop at board leash point and carry extra leash to clip to and let it drag behind you?

Hopefully this won't be happening anytime soon, but i'm thinking a dry/planned run might be in the cards.


Thanks for your expertise

[WindMuch]

Yes, I have a little loop of line on the leash plugs on all my surfboards and carry an extra leash on my harness to clip to the board in the event of a self-rescue or light wind melt-down.

But be careful if you pick up someone else's board and try to clip it to your spare leash- you're essentially making their board into a slingshot-weapon when the board catches in the water, loads up and then ricochets back towards you.

If there are other kiters still able to ride and you don't need your board as a floatation/safety device, consider asking someone (you ARE riding with a buddy, right?) to take your board to the beach for you and self-rescue with just your kite.

Kirk out

[edented]

I found this video that shows sitting on the board in what looks like light wind.
I hadn't thought of deflating and rolling it up to then paddle in, but i'm guessing that would be necessary if the wind is too light to taco sail in.





https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN4fQKMz2Cc

[Tony Soprano]

NEVER DEFLATE YOUR KITE.
The floatation and visibility the kite provides is an essential for your safety.

If there is no wind, clip the kite off at the pump attachment upside down with the lines rolled up. lay on your board and swim in.

[wjb]

Yes a small loop in the leash plug on the surfboard and an extra kite leash. I have also used the sit on and straddle method while using a skimboard. Also +1 on never deflate your kite. I really can't think of an instance where that would ever be helpful.

[Ron]

Surfboard = waves. Ride in waves and the board will go back to shore. Otherwise, put it between your legs. I was never found of the leash thing.

[dwaynej]

Just watch those board fins - Saw a kite with a few gashes after a self rescue due to the fins.

[WindMuch]

I believe the 'deflate the kite' thing was only mentioned in reference to a boat rescue being imminent.


Kirk out

[ozchrisb]

Yup, deflate for boat rescue. It's much easier for the boat if you wind up the lines and roll up with the struts inflated.

[edented]

Thanks for the replies. I'll start carrying an extra leash and put in a loop to attach.

'never get out of the boat' (don't deflate unless you're getting on a boat).

And practice on purpose.