How to Trim Your Kitesurfing Gear – for More Power, Control, and Comfort on the Water

Just a small adjustment to your gear can make a huge difference in your kite session.A proper trim gives you better control, more comfort, and helps extend the life of your equipment.

Remember that different brands – and different production years – may use different systems. When buying new gear, whether brand-new or second-hand, always make sure to check everything thoroughly and understand exactly how this particular system works before heading out on the water.

I’ve been kitesurfing since 2011 and teaching since 2012. Here are my best tips for trimming your kite gear – whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider.

What Does "Trimming" Actually Mean?

Think of tuning a guitar. If one string is off, it sounds wrong – same goes for your kite. If it's not trimmed right, it might feel off or difficult to control.

Trimming means adjusting your equipment so it performs optimally. That includes making sure your lines are even, your bar is set up correctly, and your kite reacts precisely to your input.

If your gear is trimmed properly, everything about your session will feel better.

Why Trimming Matters

Over time, lines and bars can stretch, affecting both performance and safety. A well-trimmed setup makes your kite more responsive and stable, which means:

• Less strain on your arms

• Better depower

• More precise steering

• Safer kite control

  
  

Check Your Lines

Start by checking your line lengths. Lay them out evenly and pull tight – all four should be the same length. If your steering lines are longer or shorter than your front lines, it affects the kite’s angle and responsiveness.

How to check:

1. Attach all lines to a fixed point (like a post).

2. Walk back with the bar and tension all lines evenly.

3. Adjust if any lines are off. It might feel odd, but you’re essentially stretching them to match.
   

Why do lines end up different lengths?

Lines (especially older or used ones) stretch at different rates over time. If your steering and front lines aren’t equal anymore, trim them individually or consider replacing them. If the difference is big and pulling isn’t enough, you can add a pigtail to even them out.

Always check for wear and knots.

Look out for fraying or kinks, which can weaken lines or change their length. Avoid knots – they’re hard to undo once tightened, but they should be removed. Not only does it feel better to ride, but it also helps your gear last longer.

Trim Options on Your Kite: What Happens When You Change Line Settings?

Most kites have small loops or knots where you attach your steering lines. Changing which knot you connect to will affect turning speed and responsiveness.

Shorter steering lines: more direct, faster turning

Longer steering lines: slower, more stable steering

Remember: During your session, you can always adjust the trim using the depower strap – usually a rope or toggle near the chicken loop, or a dial on "click" bars.

Pulling the strap shortens the front lines = more depower (less pull)

Letting it out lengthens the front lines = more power (more pull)

Fuld powered kite

Fuldt depowered kite

Line Length – Nerd talk about lines

Short lines (20m or less): less power, quicker turning – used for teaching, strong wind, or freestyle.

Long lines (24–27m): more power, better low-end, slower response – ideal for light wind and freestyle. This is the standard most people ride.

4 Lines or 5?

Both systems exist, and each has its pros. Your choice depends on your kite and riding style.

4-line setups: The most common today – simple and safe.

5-line setups: Adds a fifth line running to the center of the kite. Offers extra support and safety, especially in self-rescue or extreme conditions. Mostly used with C-kites designed for unhooked freestyle/wakestyle. That extra line provides more structure and precise control – important for unhooked tricks.

That said, I’ve mostly seen top-level riders use 5-line systems. Personally, I’ve always ridden 4-line kites and probably always will – it’s the best compromise when you want to ride all styles.

If you’re buying used gear, watch out for this.Sometimes you’ll find a great deal on a kite from a premium brand – but if it’s a C-kite, few riders will truly enjoy it.

Bar Size Matters

The size of your bar impacts how quickly and powerfully your kite responds. It affects how much movement you get in your steering lines:

Large bar: wider grip, faster and more sensitive steering – best for larger kites (10m² and up)

Small bar: narrower grip, slower and more stable steering – best for smaller kites (under 10m²)

Personally, I always use a small bar – even up to 12m². I ride mostly unhooked, and it suits my style better. But if your kite feels too fast or too slow, experimenting with bar size might help.

That’s a wrap on trimming and bar tips.Sign up for our newsletter (we don’t spam!) for more exciting kitesurfing content! Dive deeper into the world of kitesurfing. Join our kitesurfing camps and be part of an awesome community while taking your skills to the next level.

See you on the water!/Emely – OceanSoul