Reddit reviews Slingshot B2
We found 2 Reddit comments about Slingshot B2. Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
2 meter Trainer Kiteboard KiteSimple 2 line DesignGreat kite for the whole family to have funPractice your kiting on the beach
Hi there. So in essence, all of them are 'foil' kites. This is what most people will use as a training kite, but are also fun to just fly.
The difference between them is the steering and attachment method. The first, and last link you posted are 2 line kites. They have 2 lines leading to the outer edges of the kite. This is unlike a kitesurfing kite. They also do not have what is called a chicken loop, which is a loop designed to attach the centre lines of the kite to the harness.
The 2nd link you posted is closest to a kitesurfing kite. It has 3 lines, 2 leading to the outer edges, and one going to the middle. As a result, this kite can be 'depowered' by pushing the bar forwards, releasing tension in the steering lines. This type of kite is the only one that requires a harness.
However, I'm sure many would argue that additions such as a chicken loop and a 3rd line on a trainer kite are not neccesary. A trainer kite is simply used to understand the basics of the power window, and kite positioning. After learning these basic concepts, students will usually move to small 'normal' (ie, inflatable leading edge) kites (usually 5 metre squared) and then on to normal kites for the conditions.
I absolutely suggest you purchase one of these kites for learning to fly and having fun, and I would suggest you get the basic 2 line ones.
Once you have used it for a while, and enjoy using it:
>GET LESSONS
Kitesurfing is a very dangerous sport for beginners. Once you have mastered the basics, it becomes very safe, but most accidents happen when beginners, without proper training or advice, purchase their first kitesurfing kite, and try to teach themselves or fly the kite in unsuitable conditions. It is absolutely no joke that if you try and fly a kitesurfing kite untrained, it can kill you easily, and faster than you could realise. These things will pull grown ass men 50ft into the air instantly.
If you arent interested in owning a trainer kite, and want to save 100$ or so, just go straight for lessons. The first thing they will do is give you one of their trainer kites to learn with in the first half our or so. Up to you.
Hope you get out on the water soon!
UPDATE: all three links you posted appear to be for kites that include a very small training kite and a medium sized beginner foil kite. You would be better off with something like this
I'm sure r/kiteboarding is good. But if you live near places where people kiteboard I highly recommend just going out and talking to the people doing it. They will likely be super chill because they want people to get into the sport and they can possibly point you in the right direction for some lessons. In the meantime I also recommend getting a trainer kite. Even if you don't kiteboard the kite itself is a lot of fun!