How To Stack Flexifoil Kites (A Complete Guide On Stacking Flexifoil Kites The Right Way)
It’s genuinely magnificent seeing stacked Flexifoil kites flying in the air. Flexifoil kite means power kite. The kites you see that professionals use when they are in competitions.
Here are the steps on how to stack a Flexifoil kite:
- Place the largest Flexifoil kite at the top or beginning,
- Each Flexifoil kite should be one rear end longer for allowances
- You need to ask help from another kite flier.
But that’s just the simple gist about Flexifoil or stackers; we’ll go deeper in this article. First, let’s talk about its history and how it came to be.
Power kites are for one thing, the professional kite-flying business. Flexifoil kites are suitable for extreme kite-flying sports since it requires a skilled kite-flier to be successful in this endeavor. Another thing would be to know how to stack Flexifoil kites.
Foils, Flexifoils, And Facts!
Flexifoil kites may be fun to fly, but they can be a handful. How did Flexifoil kites first get developed. As mentioned above ago, Flexifoil means power kites, and sometimes you’ll see stacked Flexifoil flying around the kite-flying arena or areas.
Foil Kites
If you haven’t read parafoil kites in our previous articles, you better check these bad boys out to know more about them. But anyways, Flexifoil kites are based initially on foil kites. Foil kites are inspired by the design of the parafoil kite.
If you’re having a hard time imagining what we’re saying here, think of a parachute, and once you do, look at it in a miniature way. For a more straightforward look, foil kites have the shape of a parafoil kite or a parachute.
Foil kites have several cells that run from the fore to aft. It allows air to pass through to create an inflation function. The inflation function allows the foil kite to take its flight. These foil kites are frequently used in kitesurfing, kite landboarding, and recreational kiting.
History Of Flexifoil Kites
Flexifoil kites will not be possible without the innovation and creativity of Ray Merry and Andrew Jones. They were the first developers of foil-based kites in the early 1970s. Merry and Jones experimented with kite-pulled vehicles, which Peter Lynn further explored.
Peter Lynn is a New Zealand-based kitemaker, engineer, and inventor. He was known as a Guinness book of records holder for constructing the largest kites. His invention allowed him to travel worldwide to display his kites. His development paved the way for the development of power kiting and kitesurfing.
Then after the Flexifoil kite is still sold today. Flexifoil kites are also called stackers. A Flexifoil kite or stacker has a solid carbon spar on the leading edge to maintain the shape of the stacker.
Early Uses Of Flexifoil Kites
Foil kites and Flexifoil kites are used in kite buggying. Kite buggying is a traction-powered kite vehicle. In a kite buggy vehicle, a person can sit on this vehicle alone with one steering front wheel and two fixed rear wheels. The driver can control the vehicle by steering by controlling the kite.
We know what you’re thinking; it’s somewhat overwhelming to know about Flexifoil kites. Regardless, stacking and flying one is a thrilling experience. In summary, stacking Flexifoil kites has been around for a long time. The successful flight of the Flexifoil Stacker happened in the late summer of 1985.
This stacker had 153 Flexifoil kites. It was launched and flown with the support of two fire trucks. The stacker rose vertically to a height of 1,000 feet. This stacker flying was known as Chicago Hook and Ladder stack. Due to the Flexifoil’s incredible power, the flight was terminated. Nonetheless, the Flexifoil kite’s fascinating flight and stacked appearance are what set the Flexifoil kite apart from other kite-flying activities.
Power Kites Versus Flexifoil Kites
You may be confused between power kites and Flexifoil kites. What is their difference? Well, let’s begin to define power kites first. Power kites also go by the name of traction kites. Generally, traction kites or power kites generate power through wind pickup mainly because power kites need great wind power to fly.
Power kites or traction kites have two types. The most common power kites are the foil kite and the leading-edge inflatable. The foil kite is regularly used on land, whereas the leading-edge inflatables are used for kitesurfing or kiteboarding. Think about power kites as the common name which foil kites have their name.
How Are They The Same
For context, we all know that foil kites are the sole inspiration for Flexifoil kites; hence, the name Flexifoil. In conclusion, power kites and Flexifoil kites are entirely the same. We concluded that way because thesel kites work based on aerodynamics. Both need excellent wind power to soar in the air.
Moreover, you’ll see Flexifoil kites used in power kites, landboarding, and kite buggying. Most of these sports are done by professionals and thrill seekers. Many kite brands are developing different versions of power kites or Flexifoil kites. These companies want to ensure that all kite-fliers can access a spiced-up version of kite-flying.
Flexifoil’s Aerodynamics: How Does It Work?
When flying a Flexifoil or power kite, you must determine the wind direction first. Following the direction of the wind allows your Flexifoil kites to catch the wind. Commonly, the wind should be coming from the flier’s back.
Just like a parachute, Flexifoil kites should be able to catch the wind in their body or cells. The inflation process can take the Flexifoil kite in flight. In this case, ensure your Flexifoil lines are secured around properly. The reason is that Flexifoil kites generate a lot of wind power. So, you don’t want your Flexifoil to be thrown around the wind once your line is loose.
Stacked Flexifoil’s Kite: Where and How To Fly Flexifoil Kites?
Let’s say you already have the skill sets to fly a Flexifoil kite, but you were stunned by kite-fliers who managed to fly a stacker. So, you want to try it to make something more rewarding and thrilling to add to your experience.
Honestly, flying a stacker is remarkable and something notable. We may not be so sure of your reasons why you want to fly, but we understand the joy of flying one. Without much further ado, here is our simple guide on how to fly stack Flexifoil kites:
Find The Best Flexifoil Kite For You
Before you begin flying your Flexifoil kites, be sure to purchase the ideal Flexifoil kites for you. Admittedly, Flexifoil is very expensive. It is because Flexifoil kites are used mainly by professionals and experts in power kiting. Therefore, you must buy a Flexifoil kite of good quality if you want a lifetime of exhilarating experience.
Here’s how you choose a Flexifoil kite:
- Determine The Number Of Lines You’re Willing To Hold Onto
It’s relatively common for Flexifoil to have 2 or 4 lines. The two main lines on any Flexifoil or power kites help move or maneuver the kite. In addition, the lines also determine if the kite is responsive to your control or not.
The dual lines on a Flexifoil or power kite help steer the kite. For instance, if you pull the kite’s string to the right, your Flexifoil will respond and fly to the right.
On the other hand, 4-line Flexifoil or power kites have lines attached to the rear end of the kites. These extra two lines serve as brake lines. Brake lines are pulled when the flier wants to reduce the wind power. These brake lines exist for bigger Flexifoil or power kites.
- Choose Tangle-Free Lines
Power or Flexifoil kites mean one thing, and that is to generate a lot of wind power. If that’s the case, choosing a tangle-free line attached to your kite is best. Choosing a tangle or knot-free line keeps your lines secured. Lastly, it avoids continuous friction that can damage or break your strings.
- Go For Manufacturers With A Lifetime Warranty Or Return-Refund Policies
It doesn’t mean your kite is not of excellent quality. However, getting these customer-focused services is vital in any chances of your kite being damaged initially or during the process. Ask your manufacturer questions if they have warranties and return-refund policies.
- Find Easy-To-Assemble Flexifoil Kites
Flexifoil kites have a pretty sophisticated and complex assembly process. The bridles and lines can be such a handful for kite-fliers. Therefore, if you get easily overwhelmed by the complicated assembly, you can ask the manufacturer’s help to assemble it or ask for help from someone. Either way, it’s best to have a manual that can provide simple assembly instructions.
- Look For Easy-To-Launch Flexifoil Kites
Power or Flexifoil kites need wind power. Some Flexifoil kites can be hard to launch, especially in light winds. Some power kites need another kite-flier for assistance. So, check out the easy-to-launch feature if you can’t ask someone to help you fly.
- Purchase A Travel-Friendly Flexifoil Kite
Flexifoil kites or power kites are often large. These kites may take up space. Hence, choosing a travel-friendly one can save a lot of inconvenience and effort. Aside from that, check if your Flexifoil kites come with a protective bag or case. Protective cases or bags help in maintaining your Flexifoil kite’s overall performance.
- Check The Quality Materials Of The Flexifoil Kites
Quality materials in Flexifoil kites ensure that you can use your kite for a long time. It’s common for Flexifoil kites to use ripstop fabric, fine and durable stitching, water or UV ray resistant/repellant, and comfortable grips.
Look For A Wide Place
You may have read this somewhere in our recent articles. Nevertheless, it’s still essential to remember the places or areas where you would fly your Flexifoil kite. Indeed, you know how Flexifoil kites work already. In all essence, it needs an ideal place to fly in.
Here are the common places you can fly your Flexifoil kite: kite parks, beaches, and open fields. Check if the area has no fences, power lines, buildings, and nearby roads. Keeping yourself safe is your top priority.
Setup Your Flexifoil Kites Properly
When setting up the Flexifoil kites, ensure that all lines are secured. Detangle the lines and check if there are knots. Detangling the knots in your lines prevents these lines from breaking when flying the Flexifoil kite. Adjust the lines based on your level of comfortability.
Find The Wind Window
Remember that Flexifoil kites function like parachutes. In this way, you need to look for the wind window. The best way to do this is to allow your Flexifoil cells or body to catch the wind. Catching the wind similar to a parachute allows your Flexifoil kite to fly.
You can find the wind window by facing up your Flexifoil kite. Lay down the Flexifoil kite. Unwind the strings to their full length; then, you can allow your kite launcher to toss it in the air as gently as possible.
This kite can move at astounding speed due to generating a lot of wind power. That’s why having a kite launcher with you is essential to check the place. Additionally, you can choose an open space instead of the former if it’s too tasking.
Control Your Stacked Flexifoil Kites Properly
Your stacked Flexifoil kites are now in the air. For that reason, always keep on the lookout for possible wind changes. So, it’s essential to get a hold of your kite control. Don’t overpull your stacker, or they will turn in a direction.
As much as possible, avoid crossing your hands. Your arms should be at shoulder’s length and apart. Your hold should be parallel to the ground as well. Pull the lines towards the edges if you want to decrease the wind generation. It will keep your stackers moving away from the wind window.
Since these kites are stackers, there’ll be more wind power. So, it would help if you had someone with you. There may be an instance where you’ll be dragged down. To avoid this, you have to lean back against the pull. Control the kite that matches your level of expertise.
Land Your Kite In Good Timing
Don’t let your stacker land at high speed. It will damage your stacker kite. It would be best if you moved the stacker or stacked the Flexifoil kite to the edge of the wind window. Allow it to reach the land carefully. Once your stacker lands, let it collapse and deflate on the ground.
It’s best to ask for assistance from your kite launcher. Your kite launcher can quickly deflate the air from your stacker, especially once it lands. The kite launcher can lay it out while you roll the lines. After that, you and your kite launcher successfully launched the Flexifoil stacker.
Stacked Flexifoil’s Kite: How To Stack Flexifoil Kites?
Flying a stacker has been around for a long time. We can admit that seeing a stacker flying is a unique experience. What’s more, if you can fly your stacker, right? In some instances, flying a three Flexifoil stacker is common, and going beyond four may be tricky if you’re just a beginner.
Nonetheless, here’s a simple guide on how to stack Flexifoil kites. Following this guide helps you enjoy flying your stacker without compromising safety. Honestly, you can buy a stacked Flexifoil online or in physical stores. Except it tends to be in demand, and the stock doesn’t last much.
Finding A Flexifoil Kite
So, chances are you were only able to purchase single Flexifoil kites. The first thing you need to do is to find the largest Flexifoil kite. The largest Flexifoil kite will be the main lifter to generate wind power.
If you placed the largest Flexifoil at the bottom, it would obstruct the wind generation. With this, it will mainly affect your overall launch processes. Simply saying, it won’t be easy to fly the stacker.
Stacking The Lines
Next, the stacking lines should be at least one rear end long. The length should be from tip to tip. It’s best to lay your Flexifoil flat on the ground to measure the length of each Flexifoil to be stacked. One leading edge length makes room for each Flexifoil kite without stretching the lines too much.
Launching The Kite
Finally, try launching the Flexifoil kite in the air. Be sure to lean back properly to avoid being dragged down by the stacker. Seek help from your other kite-flier buddies. Flexifoil kites are made separately. These kites harness great wind power, and stacking them may generate double the wind power.
The Verdict
All we can say first is safety is essential! Flying a stacker is considered an extreme sport. Even Meyer and Jones asked help from fire truck drivers to launch and fly multiple stacked Flexifoil kites. As mentioned, these kites are powerful when handled alone. So, when flying one, you need an extra pair of hands.
Nonetheless, when stacking a kite, it’s essential to recall the guide, like placing the largest Flexifoil kite at the top or beginning, each Flexifoil kite should be one rear end long for allowances, and finally, you need to ask another help from another kite flier.
If you successfully built your stacker, you can now finally enjoy flying your kite and showing off your skills to the world. Well, it’s the best way to live life to the fullest and live loudly, right?
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