Keith McGregor asked:


Kites

Generally these kites are no bigger than a foot across, ideally suited for the youngest flyers, they can fly in the slightest of winds and simple to fly, a single line attached to the kite means that they can be flown with ease. On the whole the Mini Kite range is the cheapest range of kites we stock, which also makes them great birthday presents for young children. As these kites are made and sold with young children in mind, safety is of paramount importance, their small size means even in a worst case scenario of the kite being crashed into someone it is unlikely to cause any injury. Please also read the section below on safe kite flying.

Diamond Kites

The classic kite shape, unchanged for centuries, but now available in a huge range of styles and sizes. The diamond is a suitable first kite for children and is a very easy to fly style of kite, although some consideration should be given to the size of the kite as we sell many different sizes of diamond kite and some of the larger kites may be unsuitable for smaller children. Diamond kites generally require only the slightest of breezes to fly and can reach a high altitude quite easily, most can also be easily adjusted for the angle of flying to ensure a stable flight in a wide range of wind conditions, although they are best flown in a moderate wind coming from a constant direction. Diamond kites can usually be disassembled easily by removing the horizontal strut, which makes them easy to store and transport. Please also read the section below on safe kite flying.

Creature Kites

Creature kites are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, and as the name suggests they represent a creature, which could be something you’d expect to see in the sky, like a bird or butterfly or something you may not expect to see soaring through the air like an octopus or frog. Some are diamond in form, some are delta, but some are purely custom shapes to represent the creature. They are 99% single lined, and therefore an easy kite to fly for the novice pilot and very appealing to the young pilot. Usually requiring a moderate wind to fly they are a low drag kite which means they’re not going to pull you about when you fly them but can easily reach a good height with little effort. Please also read the section below on safe kite flying.

Delta Kites (Not to be confused with delta stunt kites)

Delta kites are named after their delta-wing shape, a slanted triangle design, very aerodynamic and able to fly in very gentle breezes. Alike to a birds wings or an aeroplanes body. They are a single line kite and simple to fly, suitable for young pilots they represent a change to the standard diamond shaped kite and are more suitable than the diamond to changable winds, although not suitable for strong winds as they tend to ‘corkscrew’ in the air. Available in a wide range of sizes, shapes and colours they are a very fun kite to fly and will be an enjoyable gift for any child, check the size of the kite though as some are bigger than others and the larger ones may not be ideally suited for the youngest of pilots. Please also read the section below on safe kite flying.

Box Kites

Another age-old design, the box kite, flies in a different fashion to other kites in that the air passes through the kite to create lift rather than push against a solid face. They usually look as though they shouldn’t fly, but in fact are one of the most graceful flying kites there are. Not available in as many forms as the diamond kite, but every one is beautiful in it’s own way. They are suitable for children as they produce very little drag, but may also appeal to the adult flyers out there, in fact they are the ideal gift for active grandparents to accompany their grandchildren when they’re flying their kites. Single flying line guarantees an easy flying experience. Please also read the section below on safe kite flying.

Stunt Kites

Getting a bit more complicated now than the previously mentioned kites, stunt kites get their name from their ability to perform tricks in the hands of the pilot, this is down to their 2 string control method, which by shortening or lengthening one of the strings by pulling or extending one of the control handles makes the kite take a different course through the air, practice will allow the pilot to perform amazing loops, dives and climbs with ease. Not the perfect choice for smaller children, but will be greatly received by older children, and also adults, for who we stock a wide range of high end stunt kites. When browsing our shop note that the stunt kites are divided into different sections; childrens, novice, advanced and expert, this is generally dictated by the size of the kite – the larger ones produce more pull and require more tug on the lines to perform their tricks. Please also read the section below on safe kite flying.

Power Kites

Finally we reach the cutting edge of 21st century kiting – The power kite, ever more popular and our best selling kites. Powerkites are named for just that reason – they take the maximum power from the wind, flying a power kite is not about watching it gracefully soar into the air, it’s all about the drag. Even the smallest power kite can produce an outstanding amount of pull, and the largest can even make you take off! Always take care when choosing a power kite that the person you’re buying it for will be able to cope with it. Safety is of maximum importance when flying a power kite and that’s why we stock a wide range of safety equipment to accompany the power kites, such as kite killers (specially designed wristbands which will allow the kite to drop out of the sky in an emergency), and a range of protective body wear; like gloves, pads and helmets. We recommend that you work your way up through the sizes of power kite and don’t just jump in at a huge 6 metre kite without prior experience. Safety aside, power kites are popular for one reason, they’re so fun to use, whether you fly it on it’s own or combine it with an ATB (off-road kite powered skateboard) or a buggy, they produce a huge amount of power which is very exciting to be at the end of. Smaller power kites tend to be 2 lined, whilst larger ‘traction’ kites are generally 4 lined, which require some form of handles or harness to fly them, sometimes these are supplied with the kite or they are available seperately. Again we have to stress the safety point with power kites, fly safely, know your limits and most of all choose the time and place to fly your power kite with the greatest of care, for yourself and other people. Please also read the section below on safe kite flying. And see our special page on flying power kites safely.

Safe Kite Flying

Location – Select a location that is free of obstruction such as houses and trees that can pose a danger to your kite and the public, and even more importantly do not fly your kite anywhere near power lines, substations or airports. Make sure wind conditions are right for your particular kite. Also make sure that as well as preventing damage to yourself and your kite, that you are going to fly in an area where you are not going to cause harm to anyone else or any wildlife, a beach is a perfect place, but make sure that there are no people around you if you are using a large or powerful kite. Also be aware of changing weather conditions, if you think there may be a storm approaching, quickly and carefully cease your flying activities, a kite can act as a lightning conductor when it is damp, and even if there’s no lightning, excessive winds can damage or destroy your kite, or just pull it from your hands, which in the case of children can be very upsetting.

Launching – With the wind at your back, take the kite about 50 feet or more downwind and have a friend hold it up, pulling the line tight. As your kite catches the wind, pull on the line handle until the kite gains altitude. Smaller kites can be launched from a smaller distance than this. Ensure you quickly give the kite lines some length after launch as the wind tends to swirl close to the floor and can quickly bring your kite back down. Ensure that there is no chance of wrapping the lines around another person or yourself as this can be dangerous in changable wind conditions.

Landing – Release the tension on the line of your kite and this will allow it to drift to the ground, quickly retreive or immobolise your kite as it can easily take off again in the right conditions. Choose a suitable place away from water and busy public places for this. You may also find that you can just wind your kite back onto the string and as your kite is approaching the ground it can be caught and held for you while you finish winding it up.

Above everything else USE YOUR COMMON SENSE, and constantly be aware of your environment, the wind is always changing and can only be guessed at. Keep aware of other people coming close to you and always supervise young children when flying kites. When you follow the necessary safety steps kite flying can be one of the most enjoyable pastimes all year round. Thank you for reading – and fly safely.

Arturo asked:


If you have never been rock-climbing before, it is a good idea to get some rock-climbing instruction before you attempt anything crazy. There is much to learn about rock-climbing, and it can be a dangerous sport. It is in your best interest to get some rock-climbing instruction.

You can get rock-climbing instruction from qualified instructors at a climbing gym, a rock-climbing club, or a rock-climbing package that includes some rock-climbing instruction as well.

You will begin with a basic rock-climbing instruction where you will learn about the fun, but more especially, the safety procedures that are involved in the sport of rock-climbing. This class will cover the essentials for climbing steep rocks safely. The basic rock-climbing instruction class is valuable for those who want to pursue mountaineering. You will learn about knots, anchoring, belaying, communication signals, climbing techniques including rappelling and the rating system. These rock-climbing instruction classes are usually taught on a low-angle, moderate rock good for those just beginning.

The next phase of rock-climbing instruction is where you complete a series of climbs with a wider range of more challenging climbing techniques. You will learn the subtleties of edging and smearing. These techniques are used in face climbing. With this type of rock-climbing instruction, you will learn about jamming and liebacking, which is used in crack climbing. You may also be introduced to anchoring basics using nuts and camming devices in this type of rock-climbing instruction.

You can learn rescue basics when you take rock-climbing instruction too. This rock-climbing instruction will give you the tools you need to get you or your climbing partner out of some tough situations you may find yourself in, using just the gear you would normally have with you. You will learn how to retreat from a route, rappelling safeguards, how to tie-off a climber who has fallen and how to escape a loaded belay. You may also learn rope-ascending techniques called prussiking, and you will learn basic lowering and raising techniques when you take this type of rock-climbing instruction class.

You can take many other kinds of rock-climbing instruction classes. You will never be done learning all the techniques and moves it takes to be a great rock-climber, but taking a rock-climbing instruction class will certainly get you closer to that goal.

Richard Prosser asked:


Why would you want to climb a rock? What if you fall. At the least you may get a few scratches. Maybe break a bone or two or crack open your head like an egg. There wouldn’t be much left of you if you did. So why do it? You want to impress your friends, or for the thrill, the exhilaration? Probably, all those reasons.

Rock climbing though, especially when you have scaled a shear rock wall or crawled upside down under an outcropping to get around and over the edge so you can continue upward has got to be a huge sense of accomplishment and total exhilaration. Once you are at the top and look down to your starting point, which appears to look further down than it did looking up, it can only be described as “WOW”. You almost feel super human, even though you may be dead tired. The fun part is propelling back down with a series of distance covering leaps and can be just as invigorating.

Rock climbing isn’t for everybody though, even if you have a mind to do it. Rock climbing takes strength and endurance, let alone intestinal fortitude. You must build up your strength and stamina to be able to pull yourself up from one pitch to the next. This is an extreme sport that is not for someone who is out of shape physically. You should make sure you are in good health and capable of climbing before attempting to scale a rock wall. You can do this through workout routines. There are even practice walls you can experience in order to get into shape. These are usually indoors and the risks are minimal. You do not want to measure how physically fit you are by trying to climb a high peak. This only spells disaster.

There are certain exercises you can do to help prepare for rock climbing. The first is simple pull ups. These should be done at different angles and heights because of the conditions you will be facing when climbing the rock walls. Also, the arms are used to hang with while attaching your gear to the walls. You must be able to hang with one arm and maneuver the other to hack out a place for your equipment or to place your equipment. Balance is another thing you must possess. Never rule out lower body strength as it is your feet that keep you on a tiny ledge until you anchor in.

Rock climbing should also be done in pairs. This is the safest way to climb. If something does go wrong you have a partner there to help. In my state there have been at least three mishaps already this year. Had they not had a partner they may never have been rescued before it was too late. Plus having a partner gives you the added benefit of being able to share the experience. Knowing that you and your partner just scaled a wall others would consider insurmountable is a feeling like no other.

There are many places you can go to learn the sport of rock climbing. The cost generally includes all the equipment you will need. The instructors are certified by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and have your safety utmost in their minds. You can take these classes whether you are a beginner or an advanced rock climber.

The less advanced rock climber may feel more comfortable with a guide when doing their first climb or two. There are many places which offer guided rock climbing experiences. Always make certain that your guide is a member of the AMGA. This way you know safety is first and foremost. The thrills you seek come from the climb not from faulty equipment or inexperienced guides.

The exhilaration that comes from scaling the cliffs and walls of some of the most beautiful country side can only be experienced by being out there. Join a group or a club. Travel the country or the world conquering the cliffs and mountains. Heck, you might even try scaling Mount Everest someday. You will never know how wonderful it is to reach the peak and know what you have accomplished until you have done it.

Richard Prosser

Jason Kay asked:


Kayaking has become a mainstay in outdoor recreation. The sport which once catered only to extreme adrenaline junkies has now worked its way into the outdoor sport lexicon. Kayaking is seen by many as an excellent way to combine meditative and physical exercise in beautiful outdoor settings. Kayaking features seem to increasingly grace the covers of magazines as well as the tops of cars, as readers and drivers of all ages and back grounds embrace the sport and its health and relaxation benefits. Any one interested in enjoying the popular sport needs only to make a few necessary considerations to let the fun begin.

Lake or River? Rent or Buy?

One of the first things to consider is what type of kayaking you intend to do. This question and eventual decision is usually based on budget, fitness level, tolerance for risk or danger, and geographic location.

In regards to budget, you need to consider whether you want to rent or buy a kayak. This may depend on how often you can get away from work and other obligations to enjoy using the kayak. For someone who may only make it out to the river a couple of times a year, renting can be a great option. Many marinas at lakes, bays, and rivers rent kayaks by the hour, day or even for the weekend. Renting a kayak at the same location it will be used will also cut out the expense of purchasing a roof rack to transport the kayak on your car roof.

If you decide that you want to purchase your own kayak, you will need to decide what type of kayaking you intend to do. Your geographic location may play into this decision. What type of water do you live near or frequently visit? White water dare devil kayaking, placid lake paddling, and oceans kayaking all require different boats. If you’re a beginner, stability may be your most prominent consideration.

Price range can vary quite a bit depending on which kayak type and quality level you decide to purchase. A basic plastic hard-shell starts at around $250-$300, with fiberglass kayaks starting at around $1,000. The least expensive kayak will usually be the inflatable kayak, which also offers great flexibility and portability if storage and transportation are an issue for you.

Safety

Once you have decided what type of kayak will get you in the water, it’s important to stop and think about safety. People who choose to delve into white water kayaking need to take a class or start out with a guide. It’s not something that should be done without prior instruction, practice and guidance. The need for guidance to get started in the sport isn’t limited to extreme white water kayaking. Anyone doing anything they feel uncertain about should consult an expert or experienced friend to guide them. Like any other sport or activity kayaking safety should, above all else, involve common sense. If you are traversing white water filled with rocks, use a helmet. Dress appropriately, and be prepared for emergencies. Basic kayak safety also includes use of a life jacket, the ability to swim, and using proper sun protection for your skin and eyes. Proper safety is an important component in enjoying your new hobby without accident and injury.

Fitness

Kayaking requires a certain amount of stamina, energy and endurance. First-time kayakers often comment that they used muscles they didn’t know they ever had! If you normally lead a fairly sedentary lifestyle, start training with some core and arm strengthening combined with light cardio exercise. This can minimize the soreness and fatigue you will feel out on the water. Being physically prepared can help to maximize the enjoyment of your first trips into the water.

Ready for the water!

Alright you have made some important decisions. You know what you want to do, you’ve purchased your kayak, you’ve done your research on safety and gone through any classes you need to take, and it’s time to head out to the water. Kayaking is a great workout, a soothing way to clear your mind, and an ideal reason to get outside. Be safe and enjoy!

Ken Fink asked:


Deciding on which kayak to pay for seem to be a real hard work. This is especially true if you are an amateur to kayaking. You ought to know that kayaks are manufactured in all forms and shapes and they are made for all purposes. If you are new to kayaking, you should know that there are so many types of kayaks for you which can adapt to any given situation and in any nature of waters. If you take a closer look at the various kayak materials, you will come to a realization that kayaks are made to be light, strong and modified to meet every kayaking need.

Ahead of paying for a kayak, look at those that are specifically constructed to support your weight, your mode of paddling, the nature of water in which the kayak will be used, and above, your budget. But you should make sure that you do not keep ease of use and other precautionary measures aside. You should therefore always make sure that you have inspected the kayak and found it fit or be able to hold you and any other accessories. Remember that in some cases, you will have to stay in the kayak for longer hours and comfort should be an important feature.

What Are The Various Categories Of Kayaks?

Basically, three categories of kayaks exist. These are the kayaks meant for leisure, kayaks meant for touring and kayaks meant for fast-moving waters. If you intend kayaking in quiet waters, small lakes or along confined beaches, you should go in for a leisure kayak. Remember that there is usually enough sitting space and the firmness of the kayak can be guaranteed when kayaking on quiet waters. Keep in mind that so many of such kayaks have been fashioned to include other relaxation features and even for carrying kids and pets.

Another category of kayaks are kayaks meant for touring. These are specifically meant for kayaking in larger waters. They are much longer in shape and can be easily paddled across fast-moving and rugged waters. They have also been built with enough storage room to contain some of your accessories. These are also conveniently used in stormy weathers.

The last category of kayaks is the sturdy type of kayak meant for fast-moving waters. Of you intend to select on this type of kayak, you must first of all determine your purpose for making use of it. Remember that as a learner to kayaking, you may find this type of kayak a bit hard to kayak with and even to perform certain actions. For this reason, most of such kayaks should be left to those already knowledgeable about kayaking or those with advanced kayaking skills.

How to Know the Correct and Safe Kayaking Performances

Your security in kayaking should be of utmost and paramount importance. It will be important if you always endeavor to learn some precautionary measures ahead of going kayaking. Remember that going into the waters should not just be an aspect of fun. Fun can only be enjoyed if some element of safety is included into it. If you are learning some safety measures, make sure you also practice them. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect and it is only in practicing what you learn in the waters that you will become an expert kayaker.

In most cases, beginners will prefer renting their first kayaking equipments

Selecting the right kayak can be as simple as your past equipment rental experiences. If you rent any equipment, make sure that you are contented with using it. If you are very contented with the usage of such a kayak, you should consider buying any of such similar equipments for personal use. Remember that the objective of every learner is to become perfect through the most comfortable means. Having your personal equipments will encourage you to practicing for perfection. Remember to buy according to your budget. There are so many used and strong kayak equipments which can be obtained at reasonable prices.