Power Kite Forum

Salt water.......in ALBERTA?!

macboy - 1-7-2010 at 10:34 PM

Miquelon Lake - described by most all sources as a saline lake. Hit it yesterday evening and much to our surprise we felt like we were spitting ocean water! Crazy.

So the question is, if even just during your rest breaks, the drying water on your helmet or wetsuit or whatever leaves white "I just ran a marathon" salt marks - what is it doing to the kite/bar/lines/board? I rinsed the crap out of everything when I got home (and that meant the 19, 16 AND 13 - crazy weird inland winds). I'm not concerned other than curious whether there is any concerns of acidity or anything like that.

It was a great spot and I think because of the salinity it's not a heavily used lake? We were the only ones out there on the first blue sky afternoon of what to most is a super-long weekend. BUT not if the water's bad for the gear. Anyone know anything about this or where I might look to find out?

Bladerunner - 2-7-2010 at 07:26 AM

Your water gear should be O.K. It should all be stainless.

Bearings and things need a lot of attention. Salt water shouldn't rot your kite and is less likely to mildew than fresh.

shaggs2riches - 2-7-2010 at 09:20 AM

Yeah the lakes that I've been going to are quite salty. Part of a chain of salt lakes running through Saskatchewan. This had worried me too in the past few months but so far no signs of wear. I rinse everything off when I get the chance as I too worry about eventual break down. Worst part I've found so far is drinking all that salt water from lack of skills. :cool: