Riding the waves, feeling the wind in your hair, and experiencing the rush of adrenaline that comes from harnessing the power of nature—kitesurfing is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life.
Every wave, every jump, every trick is a story, and what better way to tell that story than through the lens of a GoPro camera? From the eye of a seasoned professional to a newcomer to the sport, a GoPro can capture every breathtaking moment, giving you the ability to relive your adventures time and time again.
In this guide, we’ll be delving deep into the world of kitesurfing and GoPros. We’ll start by shedding light on the basics of kitesurfing and how the use of a GoPro can transform your kitesurfing experience.
Next, we’ll explore the all-important GoPro kiteboard mount—what it is, why it’s crucial, and most importantly, how to mount your GoPro to your kiteboard securely. We’ll be covering different types of mounts including the kiteboard mount, kiteline mount, suction cup mount, chest mount, and head mount, giving you a comprehensive overview so you can choose what best fits your unique style and needs.
What is Kitesurfing?
Kitesurfing, also known as kiteboarding, is a thrilling water sport that combines elements of surfing, windsurfing, paragliding, wakeboarding, and more into one unique activity. The fundamental principle of kitesurfing is to harness the power of the wind with a large controllable power kite to be propelled across the water on a kiteboard that’s similar to a wakeboard or small surfboard.
Kitesurfers use the wind’s force and the kite’s lift to make jumps and perform a variety of tricks. Depending on the wind’s strength, kitesurfers can reach impressive speeds and make leaps up to several meters high.
Kitesurfing requires a certain degree of strength, coordination, and balance, as well as understanding the wind and weather. Although it’s an exhilarating sport, it can also be dangerous if not performed with proper training and safety measures. Equipment used in kitesurfing typically includes a kite, a board, a harness attached to the kite via lines, and a bar that the kitesurfer uses to steer and control the kite.
Despite its high adrenaline reputation, kitesurfing can be enjoyed by people of varying skill levels and ages, and it’s possible to have a thrilling time even without performing high-speed tricks or massive jumps. With the right conditions and equipment, kitesurfing can be a fun and addictive way to enjoy the outdoors and the water.
What is a GoPro for Kitesurfing?
A GoPro is a compact, high-performance action camera known for its exceptional durability, quality, and ease of use, making it a popular choice for extreme sports enthusiasts, including kitesurfers. These cameras are designed to withstand harsh conditions, capture high-definition videos, and take high-quality still photos, all while being lightweight and easily mountable.
When it comes to kitesurfing, a GoPro serves as an invaluable tool for a multitude of reasons:
- Capture Every Moment: GoPro cameras offer a wide field of view, which is ideal for capturing all the action in kitesurfing. Whether you’re gliding over waves, performing tricks, or enjoying a leisurely ride, the GoPro ensures that you don’t miss a moment.
- High-Quality Footage: GoPros are renowned for their excellent video quality. They’re capable of recording 4K resolution videos, offering exceptionally clear, sharp, and vibrant footage. This quality allows kitesurfers to revisit and share their experiences like never before.
- Durable and Waterproof: GoPros are built to last. They’re robust and designed to withstand extreme conditions, which makes them perfect for water sports like kitesurfing. Furthermore, they are waterproof, allowing you to capture underwater shots and not worry about your camera getting splashed or submerged.
- Versatility: The small size and variety of mounts available make GoPro cameras highly versatile. They can be mounted on the kitesurfer’s body (head, chest, wrist), on the kite, or on the board, providing a variety of perspectives to make your footage more interesting and dynamic.
- Slow-Motion and Time-Lapse Features: GoPro cameras offer high frame rate options, enabling you to create dramatic slow-motion videos of your tricks. In contrast, time-lapse features can capture longer rides in a short, shareable video.
- Ease of Use: GoPros are simple to operate, even for beginners. With just a few buttons and an intuitive interface, you can start recording your kitesurfing adventures in no time.
In summary, a GoPro is an excellent investment for kitesurfing enthusiasts. It allows you to document your experiences, improve your skills by reviewing your footage, and share your passion for the sport with others.
What is a GoPro Kiteboard Mount?
A GoPro Kiteboard Mount is a special accessory that enables you to securely attach your GoPro camera to your kiteboard. This mount allows you to capture unique, low-angle footage of your kitesurfing adventures, providing an exhilarating perspective of the action that’s close to the water.
GoPro Kiteboard Mounts are designed to be durable, waterproof, and capable of withstanding the high-speed action and occasionally rough conditions of kitesurfing. They usually come with adhesive pads to firmly stick the mount to the board. These adhesive pads are designed to withstand both saltwater and high-speed water impacts.
The main advantage of a GoPro Kiteboard Mount is the perspective it offers. This mount allows you to capture footage from the board’s point of view, making for dynamic and exciting videos. You can see the board carving through the water, the spray of the sea, and your own feet and body shifting as you navigate the waves.
Additionally, with the wide-angle lens of a GoPro, a kiteboard-mounted camera can still capture a lot of the surrounding environment, providing context to your tricks and maneuvers.
How to Mount a GoPro to a Kiteboard
Kiteboard Mount
A GoPro Kiteboard Mount is one of the best ways to capture dynamic, close-to-the-action footage while kitesurfing. To attach a GoPro to your kiteboard, clean the surface of the board where the mount will be attached. Ensure the area is dry and free from any dust or sand particles. Then, remove the adhesive backing from the mount and press it firmly onto the board, typically towards the front to capture the best angles. Let the adhesive sit for 24 hours before heading out on the water. Once the adhesive has set, simply slide your GoPro into the mount, ensuring it’s secure.
Kiteline Mount
Kiteline mounts provide a unique bird’s-eye perspective of your kitesurfing. To use a kiteline mount, you need to weave your kite lines through the mount following the provided instructions (each kiteline mount model may have a different installation process). Once the mount is securely attached to the kite lines, you can insert the GoPro camera into the mount. It’s usually best to position the camera so it faces you while you’re kitesurfing. Remember to ensure the camera is securely attached to avoid any accidental drops.
Suction Cup Mount
Suction cup mounts can be used on kiteboards or other smooth surfaces for temporary attachment. Clean the surface area of the board where you plan to attach the mount, ensuring it’s free from any debris. Wet the suction cup slightly for better adhesion, then press the suction cup mount onto the surface and push down the locking mechanism to create a strong vacuum seal. Attach your GoPro to the mount. It’s essential to test the security of the suction cup mount before getting out on the water.
Chest Mount
A GoPro Chest Mount, also known as a chesty, provides a more personal perspective, capturing your arms steering the kite and the board below. To use this, simply adjust the chest harness to fit your body size, ensuring it’s snug but comfortable. Attach your GoPro to the mount on the harness. The camera should be upside down to capture the right perspective. Many GoPro models have an auto-rotate feature, but if yours doesn’t, you can flip the footage in post-production.
Head Mount
The GoPro Head Mount or Helmet Mount is another popular option that provides a POV (Point-of-View) angle, capturing what you, as the kitesurfer, see. To use a head mount, adjust the straps to fit securely around your helmet or head. Make sure it is tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable. Attach your GoPro to the mount, ensuring the camera is angled correctly to capture the horizon as well as your kite and board.
Remember, no matter the type of mount you’re using, it’s always recommended to use a tether or a floaty as a backup security measure to avoid losing your GoPro in the water.
Best GoPro Accessories for Kitesurfing
Clarifii Anti-Droplet Lens Solution
While kitesurfing, water droplets can frequently splatter onto the lens of your GoPro, which may distort the clarity of your footage. To tackle this issue, the Clarifii Anti-Droplet Lens Solution is a fantastic accessory. It repels water from the lens, ensuring clear, undistorted images and videos. Simply apply a few drops of the solution to the GoPro lens, and gently spread it using a microfiber cloth until it’s evenly coated and clear. Allow it to dry before heading out to the water. It’s recommended to reapply the solution periodically, especially after long kitesurfing sessions.
GoPro Floaty
A GoPro Floaty is a must-have accessory for any water sport, including kitesurfing. This small, bright, buoyant accessory attaches to the back of your GoPro casing and ensures that your camera stays afloat if it accidentally becomes detached from the mount. Given the speed and nature of kitesurfing, having a GoPro Floaty provides an additional layer of security and peace of mind. Be sure to attach it securely to your GoPro, and remember, it’s not a replacement for a sturdy mount but rather a backup safety measure.
Extra Batteries
When you’re out on the water, the last thing you want is for your GoPro’s battery to die in the middle of an epic session. This is why extra batteries are an essential accessory. They ensure you can keep recording as long as you’re still kitesurfing. For extended sessions, it’s advisable to carry fully charged extra batteries in a waterproof bag or case. Always remember to charge your batteries before your session and switch them out as needed.
GoPro Backpack
A GoPro Backpack serves as a practical accessory to carry your GoPro, mounts, and other gear. Many GoPro Backpacks come with built-in compartments designed specifically for GoPro cameras and their accessories, providing protection and easy organization. Some even feature integrated mounts so you can capture footage from new angles. When packing your GoPro and accessories, make sure each item is dry and clean to prevent damage.
Tether
A tether is an additional safety measure, providing an extra line of attachment between your GoPro and your mount or gear. In case the primary attachment fails, the tether ensures your GoPro doesn’t get lost in the water. It’s recommended to attach the tether to a secure part of your equipment, like a sturdy part of your kiteboard or harness. Remember, a tether is a backup safety device and should not replace a secure initial mounting process.
Tips For Using A GoPro While Kitesurfing
- Check Your Equipment: Before heading out on the water, make sure to thoroughly check all your equipment. Your GoPro should be securely mounted, the lens should be clean, and the battery should be fully charged. Also, ensure that your memory card has enough space to capture your entire session.
- Use a Floaty or Tether: Even with the most secure mounts, accidents can happen, and your GoPro might get dislodged. Always use a Floaty or a tether as a safety measure to avoid losing your camera in the water.
- Experiment with Angles and Mounts: To get the most dynamic and interesting footage, experiment with different mounts and angles. Try using a kiteboard mount for low, water-level shots, a kiteline mount for bird’s-eye-view footage, or a chest or head mount for a first-person perspective.
- Adjust Settings Based on Lighting: GoPro cameras perform best in well-lit conditions. If you’re kitesurfing later in the day or in overcast conditions, adjust the settings on your GoPro to ensure the best possible image quality.
- Utilize the Burst Mode for Photos: If you’re looking to capture still images of a trick or jump, use the burst mode. This mode will take several photos in quick succession, increasing your chances of getting the perfect shot.
- Use the GoPro App: The GoPro App can be a valuable tool for framing your shots, changing settings, and reviewing footage on the go.
- Protect Your Lens: Apply an anti-droplet solution to your GoPro lens to prevent water droplets from distorting your footage.
- Review and Learn: After your session, review your footage to learn from your mistakes and successes. This can be a valuable tool for improving your kitesurfing skills.
- Be Conscious of Your Camera: While you should focus on your kitesurfing, also be aware of where your GoPro is and what it’s capturing. You can create more engaging footage by occasionally looking towards the camera or positioning yourself in the frame during a trick or jump.
- Utilize Voice Commands: If your GoPro model supports it, make use of the voice command feature. This allows you to control your camera hands-free, which can be incredibly useful when you’re in the midst of kitesurfing. You can use commands like “GoPro start recording” or “GoPro take a photo” to easily operate your camera without needing to physically touch it. Just make sure to learn the specific voice commands for your model beforehand. Remember, though, that wind and water noise might sometimes interfere with voice recognition, so it may not always be the most reliable method in a high-speed sport like kitesurfing.
FAQs
Where to mount GoPro on kiteboard?
The best place to mount a GoPro on a kiteboard is typically towards the front of the board, which allows the camera to capture the rider and the surrounding water. However, the exact location may vary depending on the desired shot angle and personal preference.
Can you attach a GoPro to a kite?
Yes, you can attach a GoPro to a kite using a specialized kiteline mount. This provides a unique bird’s-eye view, capturing the kitesurfer, the water, and the surrounding landscape from above.
Can you use GoPro mounts with Insta360?
Yes, you can use GoPro mounts with an Insta360 camera, as they both use a similar mounting system, often referred to as a “three-prong” mount. However, always ensure the compatibility of the specific mount and camera model before use.
How do you carry a GoPro while surfing?
You can carry a GoPro while surfing by using various mounts such as a surfboard mount, a mouth mount, a head mount, or a chest mount, each offering a different perspective. Ensure the GoPro is securely attached and, for extra safety, use a floaty or tether to prevent loss in case of dislodgment.
Where do you put your GoPro on a paddle board?
You can mount a GoPro on a paddleboard using a board mount, usually placed towards the front of the board for a view of the paddler and the surrounding water. A suction cup mount can also be used for temporary placement and can be repositioned for different angles.
Conclusion
Kitesurfing is a thrilling sport, combining the exhilaration of wind and waves in an aquatic ballet. Adding a GoPro into the mix only amplifies this experience, allowing you to capture each thrilling moment and share your adventures with the world.
With the right mount and accessories, you can dive into your next kitesurfing session with confidence, knowing that your GoPro is secure and ready to record. So, whether you’re carving a path across a glassy lagoon or leaping high above the breakers, remember to press ‘record’ and let your GoPro transform your kitesurfing experience into a stunning visual story. Happy kitesurfing and even happier filming!
