Tips on How to Ride Upwind More Efficiently

If you're reading this, chances are you already know how to ride upwind. But, do you know how to do it as efficiently as possible? In this latest video, the Brazilian Brothers break down common mistakes and give pro tips on improving your upwind riding ability. By refining your techniques, you'll be able to drive upwind with less energy, so you can save it for those coveted jumps and loops.

To the Brazilian Brothers, the most common mistakes fall into three key areas:

1. Kite position
2. Body position
3. Board speed

Let's get started!

Upwind Riding Mistake #1: Kite Position

One of the most common mistakes riders make is trying to go upwind with their kite too low in the wind window. When your kite sits too close to the water, you're getting dragged and pushed down by the wind and it's harder to edge upwind. With a higher angle, you're able to have more lift and hold your edge better.

Another common mistake is working the kite too much. Every time you adjust your kite, you're moving it through the window, causing you to effectively get pushed downwind. By keeping your kite as stable as possible, you're able to tack upwind easier. If you're in lighter conditions, a little movement might be necessary; however, if you're losing speed in general, try easing off your edge slightly. If you use your board instead of your kite to adjust, you'll take upwind faster.

Upwind Riding Mistake #2: Body Position

How often do you find yourself looking down at your chest or feet when riding upwind? If you're in the habit, try looking far upwind instead. When you look down, your hips get locked in and it can limit your edging. But, if you look far away, your shoulders and hips will naturally open and improve your stance for a stronger edge. How far should you look? Look at where you think you can make it, and then look even further from that!

Another tip is to release your hand from the bar. It probably sounds counterintuitive, but releasing your hand opens up your shoulders and hips further as you twist into your upwind angle.

Upwind Riding Mistake #3: Board Speed & Control

Going upwind isn't about cranking that speedometer to 11. In fact, riding too fast can make it that much more difficult to hold your edge and stay in control. Instead, dial it back. By slowing down just a bit (say, from fifth gear to third gear), you'll set your edge better and cover more distance. When it comes to driving upwind, tactical moves beats raw speed every time.

Want to learn how to progress faster? Check out these articles:

• Upwind Riding Techniques
• Perfecting the Kite Loop
• How to Land Jumps

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