In the past decade participation in kiteboarding has increased in popularity. However, limited knowledge exists on the frequency, severity and mechanism of injury in kiteboarders by skill level. Certain experience levels, types of equipment, and landing abilities from high jumps will identify individuals at increased risk of injury during kiteboarding. Our results indicate that the risk of injury is high among kiteboarders, especially in the lower extremity. Most injuries appear to cause 7 or fewer days lost from kiteboarding. Kiteboarders are at increased risk for injury when their feet are caught in the kiteboard bindings when landing from aerial maneuvers. Our study’s findings may provide kiteboarding instructions, healthcare professionals and kiteboarding manufacturers with information on where educational and prevention efforts should be targeted to help minimize injuries associated with kiteboarding.
