so I just did my income taxes and my refund is burning a hole in my pocket. So I figure its time to consider upgrading from my 3M trainer kite. But I figure I could use some help in deciding what to look for since it seems kites are built for specific sports and wind conditions.

Right now I'm content with just static flying, no money for a board or buggy set up. Honestly price will probably be my biggest factor in deciding what kite to get, so long as it is noticibly more powerful than the kite I already have I'll probably be going as cheap as possible. I generally fly inland so winds tend to be fairly light and can be gusty though I live about 45 minutes from the jersey shore, so i can get strong smooth winds if I want to make a day of it. So a with a wide range of conditions would be ideal. something floaty would also be nice.

and please correct me if I'm worng, but from what I gathered a 4 line kite with handles would on average be cheaper than say a depower kite. And handles would generally be more enjoyable static flying than a bar since you can control it better, correct. So I'm wondering if there are any more points to consider? I'm not sure how wing size translates to usable wind speeds so help with that would be apreciated.

The other thing I was considering was a harness. I've seen harnesses that are used with handles, but not often. I almost always see them with bars. Not tiring my arms out so fast in high winds would be nice but is there a reason I don't see people use a harness with handles much?

thanks for the help.

Which beachea are you near? I could probably meet you somewhere and let you try some kites out and see what you like. I am short boat ride from Wildwood. I have to make a trip there soon anyway. Give me a ring. Number is in my sig. I can go over the rest of your questions as well.

You have done a good job of your homework.

One thing to consider is your requirement for FLOAT. In general a 5m kite is considered the smallest you want to go and expect anything like float to happen. Smaller kites will lift you but also drop you faster. Even 5m is a gamble and requires good timing to ride out proper. From about 8m up kites get pretty slow and while they float well it is tricky getting them turned on time. They larger the kite the sooner you will have to put it down due to too much wind so it is a balance finding the perfect size for your conditions.

If money is tight , take your time and watch the for sale section on here. At least check on folks opinions here if you find a deal . If getting some jumps in is the goal I might suggest a second hand 5.6m Twister II ? Or similar?

Yes, you can get a harness and hook in with handles. Doing so will extend your fly time. The trick is to use them to avoid getting tired out but to unhook when you are trying anything tricky. Soon flopping in and out becomes second nature. Folks riding with handles usually strop in. When you see folks flying / jumping static it is less common. The BIG advantage with a harness and static is using it to rest up + get 3 times as much flying in !

Yes , sticking with 4 line handles will probably serve you well. Even to get going if you eventually get a ride!