We want to educate you on buying your kitesurfing equipment. You've done your lessons, you're hooked, and now the big question: buy new, or go second-hand? Here's a quick, honest look at what things cost in South Africa. Prices change often, so treat these as a guide only.
Option 1: A second-hand package
A used package (kite, bar and lines, board and harness) is the cheapest way in. On Gumtree and similar sites we found:
- Older kites with bar and lines from about R2,000 to R3,500 (2017 and older models)
- Used twin tips from about R500 to R1,500
- Used waist harnesses from about R400
Put together, an older complete setup can come in under R10,000. Newer gear, just a few seasons old, costs a lot more. Our rough estimate is R15,000 to R30,000 for a full package, depending on age and brand. Shop "demo" kites are a good middle ground. They're lightly used, often still under warranty, and we saw some around R28,000 to R37,000.
Option 2: Buying new
Here's what new gear costs at South African kite shops right now:
- Kite: from about R20,000 for entry and freeride models. Most popular models sell for R23,000 to R44,000, and premium kites go up to R60,000.
- Bar and lines: R7,000 to R15,000. Some kites come without a bar, so check.
- Twin tip board: R5,000 to R12,000. Sale boards start around R5,000, and carbon boards cost up to R18,000.
- Waist harness: R4,200 to R9,700.
New vs second-hand at a glance
| Item | New (SA shops) | Second-hand (classifieds) |
|---|---|---|
| Kite | R20,000 to R44,000 | R2,000 to R3,500 (older)*, more for newer |
| Bar and lines | R7,000 to R15,000 | Often included with the kite |
| Twin tip board | R5,000 to R12,000 | R500 to R1,500 |
| Harness | R4,200 to R9,700 | From about R400 |
| Full setup | About R36,000 to R80,000 | Under R10,000 (older) to R30,000 (newer)* |
*Based on a small number of listings, plus our own estimate for newer gear. Prices change all the time.
Quick second-hand checklist
- Pump it up and leave it for at least 30 minutes. It should stay firm, with no slow leaks.
- Check the canopy for tears, patches and faded, crispy fabric from sun damage.
- Check the bar and lines: no fraying, equal line lengths, and a safety release that works smoothly.
- Check the board edges for cracks or dings, and make sure the fin and strap screws grip in their inserts.
- Check the harness hook, spreader bar and buckles for rust or wear.
- Ask the year and model. Very old kites can be harder to relaunch and to find parts for.
- Make sure the size suits you and the Langebaan wind.
Before you buy
Good used gear can save you a lot. Too old, or the wrong size, and it can hold your progress back. If you'd like a second opinion on a setup you're looking at, just pop in or send us a message. We're always happy to chat kites.
