RRD DOLPHIN1, Manual

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• Rule N°1: YOUR PERSONAL SAFETY
It is strongly recommended to practice in the company of other users who could eventually call
for assistance or help in case of emergency. You should never ride alone.
• Rule N°2: PERSONAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Helmet:
It is strongly recommended to wear a helmet to protect you in case of a fall or any other
unexpected situations and especially when launching and landing the kite from the ground.
Wetsuit :
Choose a full-length wetsuit (water T° <19°C[66°F]) or a shorty (water T°>19°C[66°F]) depending
on the water temperature. But be aware that you will use more energy when you are cold.
Impact vest :
The impact vest can be a critical piece of equipment if you take a hard crash and will become
a true asset if you ever have to swim back to the shore. It can also help you with the waterstart
and the relaunch of your kite.
• Rule N°3: CHOOSE YOUR SPOT CAREFULLY
Choose your spot depending on your level :
The choice of a good spot is an essential decision for safe learning. The best spot is not necessarily
the spot where you find the most kites. To choose your place of practice, it is important to select
a spot suited to the practice of hydrofoil. Using a hydrofoil requires a deeper water depth than
the other kitesurfing disciplines. Favor a spot without reefs or rocks and avoid overcrowded
areas. Observe local laws and regulations regarding kitesurfing and in the area you plan to use
the equipment.
Wind direction :
Don’t ride in offshore wind. The wind can die at any moment or you could have an equipment
failure. In offshore wind it is harder to swim back to shore, the wind and the current push you
away from the beach.
It is also not recommended to ride when the wind is directly on-shore, especially for beginners,
as the wind will push the rider directly onto the beach. Choosing the wrong wind direction will
make your learning harder. Always ride while the wind is side or side-on. These directions will
let you go downwind while maintaining a safe position in case of an emergency.
• Rule N°4: KNOW THE WEATHER FORECAST
Be up-to-date with the local weather forecast, (apps. radio, web, harbor crew, local schools).
What strength is the wind and from which direction? You must know how the speed of the wind
and the direction are going to develop during the day. Because the hydrofoil enables you to ride
even in marginal conditions, keep in mind the wind can quickly die completely. You should not
ride during stormy weather. Also check on the tides schedule and the areas for rip currents.
• Rule N°5: HELP OUT OTHERS AND SHOW RESPECT
Help out others:
Keep a constant eye on your surroundings, and pay attention to others. Do not hesitate to help
out or go after a struggling kitesurfer. But make sure you don’t bring yourself in danger.
Respect bystanders :
Never lend your equipment to a non kitesurfer. Inform the spectators of the power of the kite
and of the potential risk by staying downwind from a kitesurfer.