Guide to Kitesurfing in Winter in the UK – Northern Watersports

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Winter kitesurfing in the UK might sound daunting, but trust me, it’s one of the most exhilarating experiences out there. Picture crisp, sunny days, empty beaches, and steady winds, it’s kitesurfing at its finest.

That said, the winter chill isn’t to be underestimated. With the right preparation, gear, and mindset, you can tackle the icy waters and enjoy kiting year-round.

If you’re an experienced rider looking for tips or a beginner wondering if winter kitesurfing is safe, this guide to kitesurfing in the UK during winter has everything you need to know. Let’s dive in.

Is it Safe to Kitesurf in Winter in the UK?

Kitesurfing in winter can be safe, but it’s not without its risks. Shorter days, colder water temperatures, and gusty winds can make it more challenging than summer sessions.

Here are some key safety tips:

Check the Conditions: Use reliable apps like Windy or XCWeather to check wind speeds, tides, wave forecasts and water temperature. Be aware that winter winds can often be gustier, so ensure you have the right kite size. Any gusts that are +10 knots is not advisable.

Read up on How To Choose The Right Kitesurfing Kite Size

Buddy Up: Avoid kitesurfing alone in winter. Having a buddy ensures someone can assist you if you get into trouble.

Stay Visible: Low light and cloudy days can make you harder to spot. Wear bright colours or reflective gear to stay visible to others on the water.

Time Your Sessions: With limited daylight hours, plan your sessions to avoid being caught out in the dark.

Gear Check: Make sure your leash, lines, and harness are in good condition to handle stronger winds and tougher conditions.

Understanding Windchill and Why It Matters

Windchill is the silent deal-breaker in winter kitesurfing. Even if the air temperature seems manageable, windchill can make it feel much colder:

10°C air temperature with a 20mph wind can feel like 4°C.
5°C air temperature with the same wind can feel like -1°C.

To combat windchill:

Wear a windproof or neoprene jacket over your wetsuit.
Use Vaseline on your face to block the cold wind.
Ensure your wetsuit fits snugly to prevent cold water from flushing in.

PRO TIP: Cold water and wind can give you a condition called surfer's ears (external auditory canal exostoses (EACE) or exostoses). Get some ear plugs to protect yourself like SurfEars 4.0.

Essential Gear for Winter Kitesurfing UK

Winter kitesurfing demands gear that can handle icy water and biting winds. Your non-negotiable essentials include:

Wetsuit: A 5/4mm or thicker wetsuit with sealed seams keeps you warm and reduces heat loss.

Hoods, Beanies, Gloves, Boots: Neoprene accessories are vital to protect your extremities. Choose at least 5mm thickness for boots and gloves, and at least 2-3mm thickness for hoods and beanies.

Neoprene Jacket: These jackets add an extra layer to cut windchill.

Dryrobe or Changing Robe: Dryrobes and changing robes are ideal for staying warm before and after your session.

Drysuit: A drysuit will keep you nice and dry.

Ear Protection: Get yourself a pair of earplugs designed to keep the colder water out but still allow you to hear

How to Stay Warm While Kitesurfing in Winter

A few clever tricks can make all the difference, from pre-warming your gear to staying fuelled with hot drinks. Here’s how to stay comfortable and make the most of those crisp, windy sessions.

Pre-Warm Your Wetsuit: Fill a thermos with warm water to pour into your wetsuit before heading out.

Stay Off the Cold Ground: Use a changing mat or artificial turf to insulate your feet while getting ready.

Hydrate with Hot Drinks: A thermos of tea or coffee can keep you warm and energised.

Keep Moving: Cold temperatures can sap your energy faster, so avoid long breaks in the water.

Join a Beach Club: Check out your local spot for a beach club with hot showers, changing and a fire such as Wallasey Beach Club

What to Know Before Winter Kitesurfing as a Beginner

Winter isn’t the easiest time to start, but if you’re prepared, it can be incredibly rewarding:

Start Small: Winter conditions can be unpredictable. Choose calmer days and stick to familiar locations.

Use the Right Kite: Gusty winds require a kite with a good depower range to help you manage power safely.

Lessons First: If you’re new to kitesurfing, book kitesurf lessons with experienced instructors to learn the fundamentals and safety protocols in a controlled environment.

Want to dive deeper into beginner gear? Check out our detailed blog on the Best Kitesurf Setup for Beginners here.

Advice from the Community

Invest in Proper Gear: A 6/4 wetsuit with a built-in hood and sealed seams is ideal for sub-zero temperatures.
Don’t Layer Too Much: Excess layers can cause water flushing, which makes you colder.
Plan for Self-Rescue: If your kite fails or you need to swim, ensure you have the stamina and the right gear to make it back safely.
Monitor Windchill: Even at above-freezing temps, the wind can sap your warmth quickly.

Summary

Winter kitesurfing in the UK can be epic but you've got to prep right:

Check the wind, get the right kite size, and always kite with a buddy. Windchill can hit hard, so gear up with a snug wetsuit, boots, gloves, and a hood.

Stick to spots you know, time your session wisely, and make sure you're visible. With the right setup, there's no reason to pack your kite away for winter!

For beginners, stick to calmer days, take lessons, and prioritise reliable safety gear to build confidence. With the right preparation, you can enjoy the sport all year round.