Have I assembled my kite properly?
Please reference the provided "+ Download instructions" links for each style.

I lost one of my parts?
Contact: info@xkites.com

I would like to buy more kites, please tell me where they can be purchased?
Costco Kites are made exclusively for Costco and are available only thru their stores. Check Costco for a store location near you.
For the other kites, you can go to our Store Locator or go and shop at www.xkitesshop.com.

How to Get Your Kite to Fly:

For Single Line Kites:

Stand with your back to the wind. Hold your kite up by the bridle point and let the line out. If there is sufficient wind, your kite will go right up. Let the kite fly away from you a little, then pull in on the line as the kite points up so it will climb. Repeat this until your kite gains the altitude necessary to find a good steady wind.

Light Wind? Have a helper take the kite downwind and hold it up. On command, the helper releases the kite and the flier pulls the line hand-over-hand while the kite gains altitude. Practice this high-launch technique.

No Helper? Prop the kite up against a bush, post, or wall. Reel out enough line for altitude and simply pull the kite aloft.

If the kite sinks tail first, there might not be enough wind. If it comes down head first or spins, there might be too much wind. Different kites fly in different winds.

Bridles: If your kite has an adjustable bridle, move it higher (nearer the top) in higher winds, and lower (towards the tail) in lower winds. (Adjust no more than 1/2" at a time.)

Tails: Adding tails to your kite helps it remain stable in stronger winds. Use light-weight materials so you can use lots! Looks great!

Acrobatic Sport Kites:

The Safest Start: Lay out your stunter and lines completely before you launch. Check all connectors, unsnarl and straighten lines and tails.
Two Line Flying

Check the Bridles: Be sure they are adjusted correctly for the present conditions. Also make sure that they are balanced in the same position on the right and left sides of the kite.

Enough line? Use at least 60' - 100' - so you have enough time to react. Be sure your flying lines are even. If one line is shorter, your kite will think you are pulling on that line and spin in that direction.

To Launch: Step backwards and pull both handles to your side. Be sure to check behind you for obstructions or hazards before backing up.

Control: Pull the left line to make the stunter turn left. Pull the right line to turn right. Hold them even to fly straight. Try not to over-control. Learn to "fly loops" instead of just spinning tight circles.

Lift and Speed: The more to the side of the wind the stunter flies, the less lift and speed it has. While learning to fly, keep the stunter downwind. As you get better, explore the more subtle levels of performance.

Safety: Always stay away from spectators or passers-by. You are responsible for the safe operation of your stunter. Sport Kites should never be flown in crowded areas.

I've tried to fly my kite several times and it just won't stay in the air. What should I do?
If you have difficulty getting your kite to fly at the same location on multiple attempts, you should always try another location first. Sometimes structures and buildings can block the wind resulting in unstable and turbulent conditions. These variable winds can make an otherwise excellent flying kite perform poorly. If the kite fails to fly at several different locations, double check that you have assembled it correctly and make sure you're flying within the recommended wind range.

Do I need a tail with my kite?
Most kites do not require a tail to fly in their normal wind range. In gusty winds adding a tail can help to stabilize the kite. Plus, tails always look great! They add drama and color to your flight and long tube tails trace the path of your stunt kite in the sky.

Do I need a tail with my kite?
Most kites do not require a tail to fly in their normal wind range. In gusty winds adding a tail can help to stabilize the kite. Plus, tails always look great! They add drama and color to your flight and long tube tails trace the path of your stunt kite in the sky.