Kitesurfing combines skill, athleticism and adventure, and the school you learn with shapes your whole experience. The right school teaches you proper technique in a safe environment; the wrong one can leave you frustrated or even at risk. Here’s how to choose a kitesurfing school, step by step.
Check the school’s reputation
Start by reading reviews from past students on Google and other review sites. They’ll give you a good picture of the quality of teaching and how seriously the school takes safety. A good kitesurfing school puts its students’ safety above everything else and follows a clear, structured teaching program.
Look at the location and conditions
Where you learn matters as much as who teaches you. Look for a spot with good wind and suitable water. As a beginner, calm, flat water like a lagoon or bay is much easier than the open ocean, because you can focus on the kite instead of fighting waves. Plenty of open space with few obstacles helps too. Finally, check that the school is easy to reach and has accommodation and food nearby.
Ask about instructor experience and certification
An experienced instructor with a good track record will teach you proper technique and help you avoid accidents. Before booking, ask about your instructor’s certifications and experience. Look for internationally recognized certifications, such as IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization), which means the instructor was trained to international teaching and safety standards.
Make sure the equipment is up to the job
A good school uses modern, well-maintained equipment that suits students of every level. It should also provide the necessary safety gear, such as helmets and impact vests, so you’re protected while you learn. Want to know more about the gear itself? Read our beginner’s guide to kitesurf equipment.
Consider the cost, but not only the cost
It’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, but quality instruction and safety are worth paying for. A slightly more expensive course with a certified instructor usually gets you riding sooner, and more safely.
The bottom line
When choosing a kitesurfing school, look at its reputation, location, instructors, equipment and price. Get those right, and you’ll learn proper technique and enjoy this exciting sport to the fullest.
How The Kite Bubble measures up
If you’re looking for a kitesurfing school in Sharm El Sheikh, here’s how we compare. We’re the only IKO/CDWS certified kitesurfing school in Nabq Bay, and our lessons are taught by IKO certified instructors. You’ll learn on an open kite spot without jetties, with over 3 sq km of warm, flat water, ideal for beginners. And our guests rate us 4.8 on Google.
New to the sport? Read our guide on how to learn kitesurfing in Sharm El Sheikh, have a look at our kitesurfing lessons, or contact us to find the right course for you.
