Kathmandu Kids Kite V2 Review

I’ve scanned the instructions and made them available as a PDF that you can download here.

The kite is a parafoil kite and includes two large rings that allow easy handling. The line wraps around these two rings.

So what’s the kite like?

This Kathmandu kite is a parafoil kite. According to the label, they state:

A compact, dual-line parafoil kite, ideal to fit into any day pack.

As well as…

A manoeuvrable, aerodynamic kite that’s an ideal beginner option.

On that last note, they do also say that it’s not suitable for children under 8 years old. I bought this for my 5-turning-6 year old and can indeed confirm that it’s too advanced for him! The best we could do is me crouching behind him while we both held onto the control rings.

To be fair, he seemed to have just as much fun doing this as if he was in full control, plus he also enjoyed watching me fly it (note: wear sunglasses).

The instructions say the kite is 58cm x 123cm. 5-year-old for scale.

The rings are supplied with ‘flying line’ wrapped around them which needs to be tied to the ‘bridle line’ of the kite itself using the ‘Lark’s Head Method’. Clear instructions are provided. I’ve scanned these and linked to them as a PDF above.

Other details included:

• Parafoil Kite in Icon Green
• Not suitable for children under 8
• Wind Range: Beaufort Scale 2-5 (4-24 mph, 6.5-38 kph)
• Contents are the two control rings and line, the kite itself, and the bag which has a velcro closing and a loop for hanging

As you would imagine, it’s light weight and is quite easy to fold down, so makes for a great addition to a backpack on a day walk.

My own experiences of flying a kite as a child was pretty much 10% flying a kite and 90% trying to unravel the lines. While the Kathmandu Kids Kite v2 is going to need some unravelling at times (it can suddenly spiral in flight, wrapping the two flying lines around each other) the lines are generally very well laid out and positioned to reduce those frustrating knots. We’ve only flown it once so far but had plenty of flight time and little unravel time. It also behaves itself when folded-up, making storage easy.

My son took this.

Should you buy it?

Yup, go for it. Just make sure – like any Kathmandu product – you wait for a good sale. As it’s Kathmandu’s own brand, they often have decent sales on their products. $50 is a bit steep, but I bought mine for $39 during a ‘40% off all Kathmandu branded goods’ sale, and I’m pretty happy with the quality.

While my 5 year old has barely flown it, he still loves it and his face lights up when it takes to the skies. I also quite enjoyed flying it myself! I’ll just use my son as an excuse to have a play 😉

As a side note: while flying it, be very aware of any dogs in the area. In the short time we were using it, we had two dogs run after it, and they only stopped when I let it fall to the ground and lie still. Also make sure your child doesn’t hang around between you and the kite – risking the lines hitting them – and follow all sensible precautions with regards to flying around powerlines, etc.