Many pastimes undergo a resurgence. Kite flying is no exception. You’ll notice more people rekindling their interest in kites this spring and summer. Here are a few things to know and remember about an iconic and once again popular pastime.
Lift
A plane needs engines but a well crafted kite only needs wind to soar through the sky. Actually, like a plane, a number of shapes will make a kite fly. The kite phenomenon is a series of scientific occurrences. For example, wind forces a kite upward as well as creates pressure on the back tail. This is called lift.
Drag
Drag, as insinuated by the name, slows a kite’s trajectory. It’s caused by wind pressure on the top and the tail of the kite. Drag can also come from behind the kite’s tail. Ultimately, the kite needs to have enough lift to overcome the pull of gravity and drag.
Climb and Cruise
Once you’ve launched your kite in the air, enjoying the pastime is a series of climbing and cruising motions. Experienced fliers use timing along with the wind direction to easily navigate the kite. Tug at the kite’s strings to make it climb higher and let out more string to allow the kite to remain in cruise mode.
Wind Resistance
The wind is what helps and hinders the kite’s flight. Wind can be both too light and strong. Optimal winds is understood to be between 5 and 20 miles per hour. Avoid flying near large patches of bushes and trees. The lack of flowing wind is likely to interrupt your flying. Check local weather sites or download wind speed apps before you fly. Try this weather app by Apalon Apps.
DIY
You don’t have to break your back trying to find a traditional kite. You may find one at your local hobby store. If not, there’s got to be enough provisions inside to create your own. You’ll need a garden bag, electric tape, two pieces of hardwood dowel, a line, and a piece of wood for the tail. That’s it. Of course, there are tons of ways to fashion it together.
Little Thought
What’s great about flying a kite is that it requires very little attention, so you can focus on the kite and let your thoughts wander. Actually, it’s believed that philosophers invented the kite. However, the kite was first used for missions, tests, and other practical things other than entertainment.
Kites and Kids
Kids love flying kites and adults love that it’s not frustrating for kids to learn. Consider getting two kites so you can show rather than tell your child how to fly. There’s no real age limit on who can fly. Teach your kids the basics, and allow them to hold your kite if they can’t get their own off the ground. Today’s kids may be more attracted to drones and other modern technologies, yet as you know, the sensation of flying a kite never gets old.
Lewis Peters writes about a variety of outdoor activities that he enjoys. Always one who would rather be outdoors than in, he is willing to try all of the extreme sports and outdoor activities going!