Bellroy Elements Phone Pocket keeps your phone dry

I have been testing out an Elements Phone Pocket recently to store and carry my  mobile (Sony Xperia Z1 compact).   This phone is about the same size as in iPhone 4 or 5 so the pocket would fit them well too.

Bellroy Elements Phone Pocket

The verdict is: excellent!

The phone pocket is very well made with quality all-weather leather, great stitching and a weatherproof zip.

The design is great too.  The pocket fits my phone nicely (with a slim plastic back cover on the phone) and has slim internal pockets for:

• Notes (folded)
• Some Coins
• Credit card(s)
• Key
• SIM card

I have carried the Phone Pocket in a back pocket of my cycling jersey - the leather and water-resistant zip keep sweat and even rain off the phone and other contents.

The Phone Pocket also provides good protection from sand, dirt and also light impacts. 

Note that while the Phone Pocket is water resistant it may not protect your phone from water if it is immersed for an extended period.

The Elements Phone Pocket is slim and compact

Internal storage for notes, cards, coins and a key

Water resistant YKK Zip

North Nugget board for light wind, downwinders and messy surf

Session 296.  After reading several online recomendations and reviews of the North Nugget board I decided to get one.  It will fill a place between my Sector 60 and S-Quad and should be good for downwinders and light wind conditions.

The board is solid and well made - its shaped by Sky Solbach.  It comes with fins, full deckpads and footstraps. I decided to try it out strapless.  The first session was at Hampton in lighter wind.  I found it really easy to get going on and was immediately going upwind well.  The board does bounce around a bit at the nose but its not a problem.

I couldn't find one in Melbourne but was able to get one from SurfFX in Queensland.  The guy I spoke to on the phone was helpful and delivery by courier was very fast.

The board goes upwind so well you can use a size smaller kite.  Its like the Sector 60 without the bulk and weight.

It turns well on waves and is really stable for gybing.  I can now recommend it too!

GPS log

Airush Lithium Zero 18m kite and Firewire Flexfire board

I called in to The ZU Boardsports today to pick up my new Airush Lithium Zero kite.  Its designed for light wind in the range 5 to 12 knots and has no struts!

It is a big kite at 18m, yet it weighs as much as a 10m kite with struts.

The bar seems to be identical to my other Lithiums (9 and 12) but I will check it out carefully to make sure the line lengths are the same.

It is about $1,000 cheaper than an Ozone Edge 19 so I think its a bargain.

I can't wait to give it a go, but the wind was too strong today!

I also bought a second hand 6' 2" Firewire Flexwire board that I intend to use for strapless kitesurfing and possible for downwinders too.  It is nice and light and has deck grip on it.  I rang Franz to get his opinion on the board.  He said it was a great board, I should buy it and it was in fact his!

I am looking forward to trying it out soon.

I will post a full review of the Lithium Zero kite here: Airush Lithium Zero 18m - Kitesurfing Handbook

Sunglasses for kitesurfing in my online store

Sunglasses are a great accessory for kitesurfing.  They reduce glare from the water, protect you eyes from UV damage, increase your comfort, and provide some protection from water spray.

You can help support this blog, and my kitesurfing handbook, by buying some excellent Sea Specs sunglasses at a nice price from my online store. 

Postage is free to Australian residents only.

The more you buy the more you save. I think it is well worth having at least a pair of Jet Specs and Sunset Specs.

You can pay securely using PayPal or a credit card.

Airush Sector 60 race board unboxed

After some consideration, research and some advice from Ivan Salmon, I ordered an Airush Sector 60 V2 race board (2012 model) from The Zu Boardsports.   I have just picked it up.

The Sector 60 is claimed to handles more easily than a specialised race board, and has great upwind and light wind characteristics.

Ivan removing the extensive packaging

The first step was to remove the extensive packaging.  The board would be unlikely to get damaged during shipping

First sight of the board, what a beauty!

The first sight of the board is impressive.  Clean lines, nice finish, solid yet not too heavy.

Awaiting straps

The front view reveals as carefully shaped nose and not too aggressive rails

Large fins for the front and smaller ones for the rear

The larger fins (24cm) are for the front, while the smaller ones (22cm) are for the rear.  Each fin has its own slot as they are angled out.

4 fins and three footstraps

The sum total of parts is 4 fins (with screws and washers) and three footstraps (with screws and plates)

Positioning the screw attachments and plate for the footstraps

There are three rows of screw holes in the end of each foot straps.  Ivan recommended going for the middle row.

Footstraps laid out

Holes for rear footstrap

Carefully screwing in the self tapping screws.

The screws for the footstraps are self-tapping.  Ivan was careful to get the screw going vertically as it cuts its own thread.  They can be removed and rescrewed.  Care is required to avoid over tightening them and stripping the thread (which can be repaired with a screw insert if this happens).

Footstraps on

Starting with the rear footstrap forward.  It can be moved further rear once the rider is experienced with the board.

Bottom of board

The bottom of the board looks built for speed.

Fins in position

 The big fins provide the great upwind capability.

And it fits in the rear of my X-Trail - bonus!

And is surprise bonus - the board fits in the rear of my X-Trail.

Some further tips from Ivan:

• Use a kite 1 size smaller than you would for a twin tip or surfboard
• Be careful to keep the kite in the sky in light winds when turning.  The board can function in 10 knots or less, but when you stop, the apparent wind reduces and your kite could fall into the water.  Keep it flying.
• Don't edge the board. Ride it flat and steer by "twisting" your feet.
• Be careful of the sharp fins when doing a water start. Approach the board with your feet on the rail to avoid getting cut by the fins.  They are sharp.

Some additional factors I considered for getting the Airush Sector 90 are:

• Good for downwinders - you can keep going when the wind drops and you can paddle the board if the wind dies completely stops.
• Speed. More speed!
• Upwind tours - going upwind then back downwind to the same place - less logistics than pure downwinders
• I might have a go at course racing
• I will be able to kite on lighter wind days of 8-14 knots  (hopefully) 

I am really looking forward to going kitesurfing on this board . . .

See also: Airush Sector 60 V2 race board - Kitesurfing Handbook 

What do you think about a race board?

I am considering buying a race board.  I am going to try one first at The Zu boardsports.  They have an Airush Sector 60 on demo.

Airush Sector 60

Naish Venturi race board

Here is a video of one in action:

Some advantages I see are:

• great for downwinders - long ones
• good for low wind days - lots of bouyancy.
• another variation to try out
• handy if I ever want to have a go at course racing
• good for speed runs - if I ever get to go out at Sandy Point.

Some disadvantages I see:

• long fins - no good for shallow water
• hard to turn/tack - gybe turn required?
• an extra board to squeeze into the shed
• not so easy to transport - long board and long fins

Have you tried one out?  Any comments or suggestions?

A new helmet

I have just bought a new helmet - a Protec B2 Wake water helmet - to replace the old Gath surf helmet I have been using since I started kitesurfing.

The B2 Wake has much better padding inside it and a standard rating.  I have worn it once and it feels good.  It feels less like a space helmet on my head and is pleasant to wear.

It also has ear protection pieces that can be removed if you wish.

At around $120 from The Zu Boardsports I think it was good value.

 How much is your brain worth?

A PFD is now mandatory for kitesurfing

It's happened folks.  We are now legally required to use a Type 1, 2 or 3 Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for kitesurfing [link].

Type 1s are a full lifejacket - but you can get inflatable versions that are slim until inflated (but make sure you don't get a water activated version!)  Using a manually inflatable Type 1 is of no benefit if you crash and end up unconscious, as you won't be able to inflate it.

Type 2s (buoyancy vest) and Type 3s (buoyancy garment) are not lifejackets and are less restrictive to use.  They won't keep an unconscious persons  head out of water, but they do provide ample buoyancy for floating if conscious.


Note that some wetsuits are inherently buoyant to the same standard as a PFD 3.

Virtually no kitesurfer around Melbourne (or elsewhere for that matter) seems to be using a PFD.  I wonder when the Water Police will starting issuing infringements?


I am still using this vest, mainly for impact protection.  It adds some warmth over the cold winter months too.



See also:  Marine Safety - Wear the right gear to prevent injury

A great downwinder to Port Melbourne in the New Year

Session 72, Saturday 02 January 2010

Kite: Switchblade 10m

Location: Hampton to Port Melbourne (Sandridge beach)

Wind: 15 to 20 knots SW

Duration: 12:30 to 2:00pm- 1.5 hours

GPS readings

Max speed: 38.4 km/h

Trip odo: 25.2 km

Trip time: 1:29

Ave speed: 17 km/h

A classic downwinder! Woo hoo!. The forecast wind arrived in the morning, it looked like it would stick around so I headed for Hampton at noon where it was showing about 20 knots. Only one other kiter out, and another on the beach.

Hampton Beach departure point

I was really keen for an adventure, so I decided to attempt a downwinder to St Kilda or beyond. The wind was about 25 knots at South Channel so I decided to take out the 10m kite in case it got stronger in the north of the bay.

I stashed some gear (kite bag, foam sandals, shorts, shirt & wallet) in my 18l waterproof backpack, then launched about 12:45. The wind had backed off a bit, but there was enough power in the 10m kite so I headed off on the tour.

Out to sea at first for a distance. Some really big swell forming as I came down and back in to Brighton. Great surfing; the wind carries you onto the waves which you can then surf down. Carving and S turns are great. I carved on the edge right around to finish the turn toe side down and kept going. Seems simple, but you have to watch where the kite goes. Its a lot of fun.

A few jellyfish lurking beneath the waves, but not many. I surprised one cormorant a fair way out. A felt a sense of solitude too. There were kites closer in at Brighton, but open water where I was. Great views of the bayside and the city too.

I came right in to Hampton over the reefs, then headed on down past the Brighton pier and marina. Not a place to ditch the kite as there is nowhere good to drift in, so I exercised some caution. Rounding the breakwater is a relief as beach is visible. I came in past the breakwater and closer to shore for a look around, but there was less wind so I headed straight out again.

It was better surfing the waves on the starboard (right) tack rather than the port (left tack). I came into the rock wall just near North Road, then headed to Elwood Beach where three windsurfers were enjoying the small surf. I caught a few waves then headed past Point Ormand - just clearing the reef of the point - then headed out again on a tack towards the refineries now visible at Williamstown.

I was contemplating a crossing to Altona or Williamstown, but given I was on my own decided that staying closer to shore was prudent. By now the wind was backing off a little. I had to work the kite occasionally then another stronger gust would come through and I would be zooming across the water again.

A large cruise boat was visible at Port Melbourne so I decided to head past it and finish at Sandridge Beach. I passed by the St Kilda marina and breakwater a fair distance out, and saw some kiters at St Kilda a lot closer in. A large container ship was heading for the Yarra too past Williamstown.

The wind dropped a little further, so I was mindful of staying out far enough to make it to Sandridge Beach, as it was too light to go upwind. By now most of the kites at St Kilda were in an stationary. Then I noticed my right foot was swivelling! The right foot binding/strap was rotating on the board. Another loose screw. Tip: when checking your board, check all screws (fins and footstraps).

I was intent on keeping a straight tack and some speed up to get past the moored cruise ship and the Beacon Cove pier complex where there is no safe landing. Sandridge Beach loomed up as a welcome goal, then the wind died. I couldn't keep the kite up and started drifting slowly into the beach from about 300m out. I was contemplating a self rescue to get the kite lines out of the way and drift/swim in, but then the wind picked up. I relaunched the kite and came straight in.

GPS track log of downwinder

I was really stoked to complete this adventure. I changed into my dry clothes, packed the kite, stowed the wet gear then walked to Port Melbourne for a fantastic coffee and banana chocolate muffin. The batteries in my helmet cam were flat and I didn't set up the kitecam properly, so unfortunately there are no action shots of the downwinder.

Tram 109 at beacon cove

My gear at the cafe - bring on the latte and muffin!

I then caught tram 109 to Colllins St, walked down Collins St to Flinders Street Station (getting some curious stares along the way) and caught the Sandringham train back to Hampton. It was a short walk from the station back to the car.

The wind had picked up to 25+ knots. Ivan and a couple of others were kitesurfing hard and jumping high; they felt overpowered on 10m kites so I landed them for them so they could re-rig. A few photos of them in action are below.

Ivan said a helicopter had been buzzing a big shark (3m+) that was hanging around the Cerberus not far away. Food for thought . . .

Safety gear

• Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
• GPS in Pacqua waterproof arm pouch
• Mobile phone in Boxit waterproof jacket
• Sunglasses

Downwinder gear

The gear I took on the downwinder gear in the photo below is:

• Board, Naish Haize 144
• 1mm wetsuit
• Waterproof backpack 18 litres
• Kitebag (in backpack)
• Bouyancy vest
• Foam sandals (in backpack)
• Helmet
• Harness
• Bar
• Safety gear (PLB, GPS, mobile phone)

Naish Haze 144 - a great all round board

Some good jumps in a new vest at Hampton

Session 71, Tuesday 29 December 2009

Kite: Switchblade 14m

Location: Hampton

Wind: 20 knots S

Duration: 4:30 to 5:30 - 1 hour

Looks like the wind drought is over and the wind god is smiling - for now anyway. A good southerly sprang up in the afternoon so I headed down to Hampton. It is still quiet around town to driving down is very quick.

Impact vest

I stopped at SHQ on the way and bought this vest for protection while jumping. It has good protection on the front, back and sides and is less bulky than the canoeing PFD vest that I used a lot when learning, and for downwinders.

Note: The vest contains a specific warning that it is not an EN393 Bouyancy Device, and that it is not a life jacket. It is not approved by the U.S. Coast Guard of the Canadian Department of Transport or any other agency.

It is designed for tournament water skiers who find PFD jackets too bulky.

A rescue cord

I also tried out a "rescue cord" device I rigged. It is a some venetian blind cord tied to a ring on the harness with a small carabiner on the other end. I tucked it in a neoprene pocket secured on the webbing that attaches the spreader bar. The idea is to use the cord to secure an errant board and tow it, rather than try and scoop it up or do a water launch holding the board, which I have found to be extremely difficult.

Extreme caution must be exercised with a second board in two to prevent it being whip lashed into you if the kite gives you a good yank (the reason why board leashes are strongly discouraged).

It was not a great success as the zip holding the cord worked its way open and the cord then dangled behind trailing in my wake until I stowed it away again.

Today's kiting session.

I took out the Switchblade 10m which was great to fly after so many outings on the 14m. It turns fast and had plenty of power in the 20 knots wind. I did a couple of runs in the flat water behind the sea wall, then some runs out further, landing a few good jumps.

The timing is critical - you need speed, some tension in the lines, then send the kite just before you hit the top of a wave. Then keep the power on and fly the kite back in the direction you are travelling. A few times I have let the kite go too far backwards and "tea bagged" under it, which can result in landing awkwardly on your back. Hence the impact vest.

It worked well - it was comfortable to wear and certainly adds some warmth to the 1mm suit I wear.

After some really fast runs over some big swells, I headed for the surf section between the two groynes, but noticed the board behaving oddly on the right tack. On the beach I discovered that one fin was dangling by a single screw and had rotated around, having lost the other screw. Found just in time.

I had checked the screws a while ago, but one has worked loose since. Tip: check your kit regularly to avoid issues like this. It could be a disaster on a big trip if you didn't have any spares.

I walked back up the beach, had a brief chat to Rick who had just come in from his best ever session.

Kitesurfing GPS

I have had a few questions about the GPS I use for logging my kiting sessions. Currently, I am using a Garmin Foretrex 101 pictured below.

I don't quite trust the waterproofing, so I have taken the wrist band off and put in it a waterproof pouch, which I then put in the front pocket of my buoyancy vest. If I don't wear my vest I cannot use it, so I have also purchased a Pacqua waterproof arm pouch.

If you want to get serious and try for a speed record, you can read about which GPS units to use the Navi GT31 or Navi GT11 ) is recommended, at GPS-kitesurfing.com. You can also upload your track logs to this site and compare with others how you are going.

For more information see GPS for kitesurfing - Kitesurfing Handbook

An update on the kitesurfing gear I am using

This an update on the gear I am currently using, including a few tips.


I have worn these "surf socks" the last few outings. They do reduce the feel of the board a bit, but they were great to have on when I got washed up into the rockwall and reef after not being able to relaunch my kite. They also provide protection from glass and other sharp items. This is not a major problem at Hampton Beach, but people have got some nasty cuts at St Kilda.


I wear this 1mm steamer which I bought a few years ago for diving in the tropics. I find I don't get too hot and it keeps the sun off. So far, I haven't got too cold either, but I don't think it would be warm enough for winter. I notice many people kite in boardshorts and rash vests, but I like having the thin layer of neoprene for protection.



I have taken out this Garmin Forerunner 101 GPS (minus the wrist strap) in the waterproof pouch. It is interesting to get the speed readout and track log. The unit got water in the battery compartment when I wore it on my wrist, so I now keep it in the pouch in the front pocket of my vest. So far I haven't carried out a phone in a waterproof pouch.


I wear this Gath helmet over the top of Ocean eyewear polarised sunglasses, which also have a firm retaining strap. The helmet stops the glasses coming off. I notice most people don't use a helmet, but I think the additional safety is good, especially while learning. Most fatalities in kitesurfing result from head injuries, so a helmet protect against this. So far (touch wood) I haven't conked my head on anything yet. The glasses are excellent for reducing glare.


This is a bouyancy vest I bought from a caneoing shop. It has a pocket on the front that I put my keys and GPS in. The padding provides some additional protection and it obviously means I float better. I plan to take out a slim waterproof camera soon in the front pocket too, or perhaps strapped to my wrist.



I have cut out additional toe grooves in both footpads (on the right of the picture) so I can get a better grip on the board to stop my foot "shaking out" of the straps at speed. This works well, but is less effective with the surf socks on. They tend to jam a bit tighter under the straps and also have a grip surface though.

Also note I have written my name and phone number on the board in the event I lose it in an out-to-sea epic and it gets washed up. Another kiter said his was returned after he lost it in Winter once.


This is the Dakine seat harness I am using, with an additional donkey dick on the bar (which I don't use now). I attach the safety leash below the bar so if I pull the safety the kite goes free. There is a pocket for a safety knife for cutting the kite lines in an emergency on the back of the harness.



This shows the leg loops of the seat harness - very handy for stopping the harness climbing around your ribs when the kite is above you while learning. The safety knife is in the middle. I haven't tried the waist harness since using the seat harness. It may be a bit more comfortable, so I will give it another go soon.

The kites I have are still the 12m Crossbow (15 to 25 knots) and a 7m Crossbow (30+ knots), so far with no modifications other than simplifying the line rigging for the 12m bar.