Children all over the world have been charmed with the long flowing tails attached to kites, and the bright colored paper or plastic that kites are usually made of. However, kiting has begun to change in the last few years. Advancements in aerial technology have started to shape new aspects of kiting. The days have past of running to get your kite up into the air only to have it fall from the sky moments later. A new breed of kite flyer has emerged the "No Wind" kite flyer with a "No Wind" kite. Yes, that is correct. "No Wind Kites!"

Technology today provides kite makers high-tech light weight materials, and computers to calculate the most efficient shapes for their elegant flying machines that need only a breath of air to fly. Several kites weigh in under 2 oz. and are designed to fly specifically indoors. These kites truly step beyond the realm of kiting as recognized for decades. You may have found yourself waiting for a bright sunny day and lots of wind to go fly a kite but today's kite flyers no longer have to wait for the weather to change because now they are able to fly indoors. Many kite festivals all over the world feature indoor competitions and seminars on indoor flying.

Technology has also provided another aspect of kiting
completely on the opposite side of the spectrum. Power and Traction Kite Flyers emerge on the cutting edge of extreme kiting. A new facet of kite flying which is fast paced, highly dangerous, and very exciting. Traction Kite Flyers utilize the wind to propel themselves through the air, across the field, or down the beach on in-line skates, water skis, or kite Buggies. Imagine harnessing yourself onto kites of up to 130 sq. feet then sitting in a three wheeled contraption called a kite buggy and being pulled 25-45 miles per hour by the wind. The kites used called Quad-foils are controlled by four lines having the capability of lifting 240 pound men into the air. Charlie Brown had no clue!

As aerial technology is explored, new aspects of aerial sports and hobbies will continue to improve and to be created. I personally look forward to the future and what it has to offer all of life, but in particular, kite flying. Contact Kelly Reed at 250-9454