When you run a kite school since 2004, you go through a lot of brands. For the first five years, we tested various manufacturers — some kites lasted a season, others barely a month. Some handled beautifully but relaunched poorly. Others were indestructible but students struggled with them.
In 2009, we switched exclusively to Flysurfer. And since then, we haven’t had a reason to change.
This isn’t a promotional article. It’s an explanation of why we made the decision we did — and what it means for you.
Why Flysurfer
German Engineering That Delivers
Flysurfer is a German company. That alone doesn’t mean much — but in practice, it means an emphasis on material quality, precision manufacturing, and thorough testing. When we receive a new model, we know what to expect. Specifications match reality. A kite rated for a wind range of 12–25 knots actually handles that range.
This is more important than you might think. In a school, we can’t risk a kite not performing as expected. We have students from 30 to 70 kilos, wind from 10 to 30 knots, and we need equipment we can rely on. Always.
The Only Manufacturer with a Complete Range
Most kite manufacturers specialise. Some make great tube kites, others great foil kites. Flysurfer is the only manufacturer that makes tube, foil, and hybrid kites — and ranks among the world’s best in all categories.
For us, that means we can recommend exactly the right kite for every student and every rider. We don’t have to push anyone toward one type because it’s all we carry. We carry everything.
Innovation, Not Marketing
Flysurfer doesn’t slap a new colour on last year’s model and call it a “revolution.” When a new model comes out, it’s because it brings a real improvement. The Hybrid kite — a kite that inflates itself using the wind and needs no pump — isn’t a marketing gimmick. It’s an engineering achievement.
Our Fleet
We currently have over 250 kites and 70+ boards. Here’s an overview of the models we use and what they’re for:
Flysurfer Indie (7–17 m²) – The Teaching King
The Indie is a tube kite designed specifically for kite schools. It’s stable, forgiving of mistakes, and relaunches easily from water. It has a huge size range — from 7 m² for strong wind or light students up to 17 m² for lighter wind or heavier riders.
During courses, the Indie is our primary tool. It’s the kite you learn to steer on, bodydrag, waterstart, and ride. It forgives mistakes but responds correctly — so you develop the right habits from the start.
Flysurfer Stoke (4–12 m²) – Freeride and Waves
The Stoke is a versatile tube kite for advanced riders. Great for freeride, waves, and everyday riding. Fast, direct, and fun. Sizes from 4 m² for serious wind to 12 m² for lighter days.
In our rental centre, the Stoke is the most popular kite among advanced riders who simply want to get out and have fun.
Flysurfer ERA (5–12 m²) – Big Air
The ERA is for those who want height. It’s a tube kite optimised for jumps and big air. Massive hangtime, stability in the air, and precise control. If you want to fly, the ERA is your kite.
Flysurfer Soul (up to 21 m²) – Foil Specialist
The Soul is a foil kite (ram-air) designed for foiling and light wind. Extremely light, packs into a small bag, and generates pull even in minimal wind. Sizes up to 21 m² mean you can ride even when everyone else has packed up long ago.
For hydrofoil riders — whether kite foil or wing foil — the Soul is the ideal choice. Smooth, constant pull without jerks.
Flysurfer Sonic – Racing Foil Kite
The Sonic is the racing version of the foil kite. Maximum performance, minimum weight. For riders who put speed and efficiency first.
Flysurfer Hybrid (2.5–12 m²) – No Pump Needed
The Hybrid is a unique concept — a kite that inflates using the wind alone. No pump needed. Unroll on the beach, connect lines, and launch. It combines properties of both foil and tube kites. Compact for travel, easy to set up.
Sizes from just 2.5 m² (for extreme wind or light riders) up to 12 m² give enormous flexibility.
How We Keep the Fleet Fresh
250+ kites doesn’t mean 250 old kites. We track flight hours on every kite in our fleet. We have a precise overview of how many hours each kite has flown and regularly retire and replace kites that have reached their limit.
That’s why you’ll always borrow equipment in good condition from our rental centre. We don’t cut corners on what matters.
What This Means for You
During the Course
When you arrive for a course, you get top-tier equipment from day one. Not worn-out kites from last season, but current models in good condition. An Indie in exactly the right size for your course and conditions.
At the Rental
If you already ride and want to try something new, our rental centre has the complete range. Want to try a foil kite? Soul is available. Want big air? ERA is waiting. Want to ride without a pump? Hybrid.
A Kitepass costs 10 € per day and gives you access to the entire fleet. Details on our rental page.
When Buying Your Own Equipment
After completing a course with us, you get a 15% discount on new Flysurfer equipment in our shop. And since you know the models from your own experience — you’ve ridden them — you know exactly what you’re buying.
Fifteen Years and No Reason to Change
Since 2009, we’ve logged thousands of hours on Flysurfer kites. We’ve taught hundreds of students on them. We use them every day, in every wind, in every situation.
Over that time, we haven’t had a single reason to look for another manufacturer. The kites work, they last, and they do exactly what they’re supposed to. For a kite school that’s been operating since 2004, that’s the most important quality of all.
If you have questions about equipment, get in touch. We’re happy to advise — and if you’re in El Gouna, we’re happy to let you try anything out.