Snowkiting in Chile

Corralco ski resort is hosting its seventh snowkite festival this year from the 24th to 27th of September, closely followed by the national freeride circuit which starts in Antillanca ski field on Volcano Osorno and ends at Corralco ski resort on Volcano Lonquimay. Both are great spectator sports and for the brave, offer the opportunity to participate.

Snowkiting is very similar to Kitesurfing only arguably somewhat easier. In order to be successful one must master skiing or snowboarding plus handling a double line kite. Fortunately Corralco ski resort offers instructional classes and has the equipment needed to try the sport.

Gear

A fair bit of safety clothing is required when starting, the most important 3 being the helmet, goggles and gloves. Other than that you need full ski clothing, keeping in mind that it is a high energy sport and you can quickly get uncomfortably hot if rugged up in full ski gear. Dressing in layers that you can strip off or add easily is the key to comfort when snowkiting. You will also need your skiis or snowboard, a harness and a kite. Foil kites are very popular for their portability and softness but other options exist such as inflatable kites.

Advantages and disadvantages of snowkiting

1. One big advantage of snowkiting is that you don´t need to go to a place like Corralco ski resort, nor buy expensive lift tickets to enjoy the sport. You can enjoy people free expanses of snow and avoid queues.
2. Wind is not neceesarily a negative thing, it´s actually needed for this sport and provides an alternative activity for days that are too windy for a good downhill experience.
3. Freedom and adrenaline are what this sport is all about, the rush of feeling like you are flying has the body packed with natural endorphins.
4. One disadvantage of snowkiting is the level of mastery required prior to trying it. Lessons are usually required to help you have a good first experience.
5. Another disadvantage is the set-up cost. A new kite may cost around CLP $600.000 in Chile, whilst a used one may cost around CLP $350.000. People who enjoy both kitesurfing and snowkiting may choose to purchase a kite that they can use for both, which reduces the initial capital outlay.

• Our cabins are located just 15 minutes drive from Volcano Lonquimay and Corralco ski resort which have ample space and options for a great kiteskiing experience. There are also other options within a 1 hour drive. If you need any more information about the Snowkitefest in Corralco ski resort 2017 or about our cabins, please don´t hesitate to send us a message via our contact page.