Kite surfing began as a leisure sport in the 1980s. However, its popularity skyrocketed some twenty years later. In 2005, the number of kite surfers measured 100,000, an amazing increase from less than 1,000 before the turn of the millennium. This sport is also known as kiteboarding and flysurfing in some European countries.

The basic principle of kitesurfing is straightforward: by using a big, powerful kite as a means of propulsion, and sitting or standing in some form of transport, the kitesurfer can reach extreme speeds and perform acrobatic stunts. Commonly, kitesurfing is done using a surfboard on water.

Kiteskiing, another form of kite surfing, is also gaining in popularity. This is performed with skis or a snowboard. In truth, any object capable of moving outdoors and requiring propulsion can be accompanied by a big kite to generate the required power.

Kites that are used in kitesurfing are substantial in size. They are known as power kites. Today, there are three major types of power kites. The first is the airfoil kite, which comes with no interior structure. Thus, the kite's shape is dependant on the wind acting upon it. They can be launched quickly and come with valves that allow the release of air should there be a spill. Difficult to comprehend initially, they can be rather easy to use once understood properly.

Inflatable kites have an inflatable edge that helps in forming and maintaining the kite's crescent shape. In favorable wind conditions, they can be comfortably launched. However, a little wind can make launching difficult.

Framed kites have a rigid edge of fiberglass or graphite that helps in forming the shape of the kite, and by and large have chiseled aerodynamic forms. Low wind conditions can make the launching of framed kites a difficult matter.

Kitesurfing kites are either two-lined or four-lined. They come with one control bar or different handles to control the various lines. Though the kites are initially difficult to control, kitesurfers can, over time, exhibit incredible acrobatic feats.

Kitesurfing can be classified as a dangerous sport, and people looking at venturing into the world of kitesurfing should do so with adequate lessons. Generally, people tend to underestimate the power that can be generated by a kite. People have lost their lives while engaging in this sport; and kitesurfers have also been reported to have been blown to the sea and drowned.