When someone is just getting started with kitesurfing a common question that is asked is what type of kitesurfing kite should I use?  Should I use a 2 line or 4 line kite?  Is there a big difference between the two?  There is a huge difference between 2 line and 4 line kitesurfing kites.  2 line kites are generally used by beginners that do not understand the finer points of kitesurfing just yet.  These particular types of kitesurfing kites allow for the greatest ease in steering the kite.  There are just 2 lines that connect the kitesurfer to the kite and allow for movement left and right.

A 4 line kite is for the more advanced surfer.  These kites allow the kitesurfer to maneuver many parts of the kite separately and offer greater control of the kite while it is caught up in the wind.  With the greater control of a 4 line kite also comes more potential problems as 4 line kites can easily become tangled and cause problems when trying to launch from the water.  It is recommended for beginners to start with a 2 line kite on land before entering the water so that one can get the feel for how the kite will maneuver once deployed.  This is also advised when moving from a 2 line kite to a 4 line kite as there are several differences between the two that need to be perfected before entering the water with a 4 line kite for the first time.

If you are looking to get involved with kitesurfing and have never flown a power kite before it is highly recommended that you start with a 2 line kite rather than a 4 line kite.  This will offer you greater control of your kite and the ability to steer left and right.  Once you have mastered the 2 line kite you are ready to move up to the 4 line kite where it is possible to make sharper turns and achieve higher speeds while kitesurfing.