Which kites are the best?

Kites are fun to fly and beautiful to look at. Flying them is an uplifting event that is both peaceful and exciting. There are no motors or batteries, just the natural power of the wind. Beginners love kites that are simple to assemble and easy to fly. Experienced pilots may want planes they can do tricks with.

Kites come in hundreds of different styles, shapes and sizes. If you are an experienced kite looking for a particularly fast and agile stunt kite, take a look at the FLEXIFOIL Sting stunt kite.

What to know before buying a kite

Types of kites

Single line kites

A single line connects the center of the kite to the flyer on the ground. Single line kites are the most basic type of kite and the one most people automatically think of. They are easy to learn to fly as they are stable in flight. A single line kite is often the traditional diamond-shaped kite, but can be a delta-shaped kite, which is even easier to fly.

Two line kites

Two lines attach to the kite at two different points, giving you better control over your plane.

Two-line kites are twice as difficult to fly because you have two lines of control and must move them in sync or independently. Also called stunt kites, two-line kites require more skill to fly because they are so fast and responsive to commands. Most two-line stunt kites are delta-shaped and resemble miniature hang gliders.

Power and foil kites

These three and four line kites are flown with handles or control bars. Foil wings are easily transportable as they roll up into a compact tube that slips into a carry bag.

Four line stunt kites

They are the rockstars of the kite world. In the hands of an expert, they can do new and more exciting stunts.

The wind

If you live somewhere with high winds, look for a smaller kite. In a low wind area with gentle breezes, look for a larger or ultralight kite.

What to Look for in a Quality Kite

Shapes

Diamond kites are the most recognizable forms of kite. Because they perform well and are easy to control, diamond kites are the choice of many beginners.

Delta kites are one of the most popular forms as they are easy to cast and only require light breezes to operate.

Parafoil kites have no frame or form until they are filled with wind. Parafoil kites require multiple lines of control.

Cellular kites are three-dimensional and have nifty shapes like snowflakes and stars.

The most common form of cell kite is the box kite. Box kites have four parallel struts with fabric wrapped around them. The four sides of a cart are fabric, and the two ends are open. Box kites are slightly heavier than other types due to their frames and therefore need stronger winds to rise and stay there.

sled kites have a single surface with vertical spars on the sides that stabilize the kite

form in flight. These spars can be light wood or fiberglass. Some versions have inflatable frame rails which make them more able to withstand the impact of collisions. Because they easily deflate to smaller sizes, they are easy to transport and store. Sled kites are very good for children.

Stunt kites, also called sport kites, are designed to perform impressive aerial stunts. Stunt kites come in many shapes, but most are of the triangular delta variety and have dual line controls.

How much you can expect to spend on a kite

You will find simple kites for less than $10. Many good kites of all kinds can be found between $25 and $50 and fancy kites start at $100.

Kite FAQ

What should I know when I go to fly my kite for the first time?

A. For safety reasons, do not fly your kite in rainy conditions or in the presence of lightning. Choose a clear day with light to moderate winds. Find a large, open space away from power lines, trees, buildings, and roads. Always be considerate of others.

How do I fly my kite?

A. Stand with your back to the wind. Hold your kite in the air and as the wind takes it, and let the control strings unwind gradually.

What are the best kites to buy?

High kite

FLEXIFOIL Sting Stunt Kite

What do you want to know: If you are a skilled kiter, you will love the incredible speed and agility of this parasailing stunt kite.

What you will love: With no rods, posts or fixtures, there is nothing to install and nothing to break. The foolproof automatic safety system automatically brings the wing back to the ground if you release the control handles. This kite has a wingspan of nearly 9 feet.

What you should consider: Do yourself a huge favor and get the 75ft long tube tail.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon

Top kite for the money

In The Breeze 3291 Peacock Diamond Kite

What do you want to know: This is a classic, inexpensive diamond shaped kite that is very easy to learn to fly for all age groups, even the very young.

What you will love: This classic kite is made of durable ripstop fabric over fiberglass ribs and comes with a wrap handle. Choose from 20 colorful designs. The body of this kite measures 30 inches wide and 30 inches high, and the color-coordinated tail adds another 12 feet to the length. Simply insert the fiberglass crosspieces into the pockets.

What you should consider: Tails are essential to flight stability and beautiful to look at in flight, but get tangled easily.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Babyeden Large Twin Line Stunt Kite

What do you want to know: This sturdy delta-shaped stunt kite is designed for intermediate pilots.

What you will love: The carbon rods support seven nylon panels, so this kite can withstand the impact of many crashes. This kite measures 84 inches wide and 33 inches high.

What you should consider: This kite requires assembly well within the capabilities of the intermediate flyer, but can be difficult for beginners.

Or buy: Sold by Amazon

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David Allan Van written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.

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