Gear Essentials with Elite Watersports in St. Petersburg
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
No specific fitness level required; suitable for all skill sets interested in gear knowledge.
Overview
Demystify watersports gear with Elite Watersports’ expert-led Shop Gear Lesson in St. Petersburg. Learn how proper board, kite, and harness fit can transform your water experience.
Shop Gear Lesson
Located at the shop
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join an expert instructor for an essential gear lesson that demystifies the world of sports equipment. Learn about the various sizes and shapes of boards and kites, and discover the importance of personalized fitting for harnesses and wetsuits. Gain valuable insights that would otherwise take weeks to uncover.
Meet your instructor at the shop for a gear lesson. Getting into our sports can be very confusing especially when buying the gear, maintaining it and packing it away. We will go over all the differences in gear sizing. Boards have different shapes and sizes and are meant for desired disciplines like freeride, big air, and freestyle. Kites are also all different. When it comes to a harness and wetsuit, these are very personable and fit unique to your body. You must try them on. Your instructor will go over invaluable info that would take weeks of research to figure out.
Adventure Tips
Try on all gear personally
Harness and wetsuit fit varies greatly; make sure to test sizes for true comfort and performance.
Ask about board shapes
Different boards serve unique riding styles—freestyle, big air, or cruising—so clarify your goals before buying.
Learn kite size basics
Kite sizes depend on wind conditions and rider weight, so understanding these factors is key to effective sessions.
Maintain your gear properly
Proper cleaning and storage extends equipment life and performance, so ask about maintenance tips during your lesson.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins often spotted offshore
- Western sandpipers along the beach in migration season
History
St. Petersburg has been a watersports hub since the 20th century, with kiteboarding gaining popularity as windsurfing evolved.
Conservation
Elite Watersports supports local efforts to maintain clean shorelines and promotes responsible gear use to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Tampa
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Notebook and pen
Helpful for jotting down personalized gear advice and fitting notes.
Comfortable clothing
Wear apparel suitable for fittings, allowing easy trying on of harnesses and wetsuits.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your lesson, especially in warm Florida conditions.
summer specific
Sunscreen
Protect skin from UV exposure when spending time at or near the water.
spring|summer|fall specific