Kite size isn't "bigger is always better," and it isn't "whatever my buddy rides." It's a balance between your weight, the real wind strength at your spot, and how aggressively you want to ride. Here's how to think it through.
What size actually depends on
Three factors decide almost everything: rider weight, the actual wind strength at your spot, and your riding style. A heavier rider needs more surface area for the kite to pull in light wind. A lighter rider needs the opposite — in strong wind, a kite that's too big will overpower you and become unmanageable. Freeride and learning usually pull you toward a bigger, easier-to-fly size; big air and freestyle often pull toward something smaller and sharper in response.
A rough guide by weight
Treat this as a starting point, not a strict table — the wind at your specific spot can shift the choice either way:
— Up to 60 kg (132 lb): 7–9 m² usually covers medium wind; for light wind, size up.
— 60–80 kg (132–176 lb): the main working range is typically 9–11 m².
— 80–95 kg (176–209 lb): usually 11–12 m², more in light wind.
— Above 95 kg (209 lb): typically 12 m² and up.
Why one size isn't enough
Wind is rarely the same every day. Most riders sooner or later settle on two sizes about 2–3 m² apart — one for light wind, one for strong wind. That way you don't lose sessions because "the wind isn't right today," and you never head out on a kite that's clearly too big or too small for the conditions.
What a beginner should do
You don't need two kites on day one — get one size for the average wind at your local spot and your weight, with a bit of headroom for skill growth. Models like the Code V2 are built specifically to be soft and forgiving to fly — comfortable to learn on, and the same kite pulls you forward once you start jumping with confidence.
The easiest path — just ask
A weight chart on paper isn't quite enough by itself: your level, your spot, and your board type all matter too. Call us — a couple of questions and we'll dial in a size for you specifically, not off an averaged table.