Dark slide

Load up before releasing the power for an elegant glide with the Dark Slide

Whether you're a freestyle addict or a freerider looking to add a touch of elegance to your sessions, this move — where you glide gracefully over the water, leaving only the tip of your board grazing the surface — is a must-have in your repertoire.

The success of this trick lies in a perfectly balanced timing and power, allowing you to label it as elegant. Through trial and error, you'll gradually approach the perfect execution. Here are our tips to help you achieve it.

Kitesurfer: Tristan, GONG staff, with a Sway Wood Flex and Unik kite.

Preparation

Position of the kite

Start with your kite positioned around 1 o'clock or 11 o'clock. If it's too low, you risk sinking while attempting the slide. If it's too high, it will lift you too early. The ideal position provides just enough lift to support you without disrupting your trajectory.

Power and trim

Make sure your kite is properly powered to support you. Adjust the trim so that the bar is comfortable to hold without needing to pull excessively. A well-adjusted kite will allow you to maintain a good balance between traction and stability.

Speed

Adopt a moderate speed while riding crosswind. Avoid heading too far upwind, as this will slow you down and make it harder to transition into the slide. A slightly relaxed trajectory will help you maintain momentum and smoothly initiate the movement.

Body position

Prepare by shifting your weight onto your back foot, while keeping your front leg slightly extended. This positions your center of gravity toward the back of the board, which is crucial for initiating the tilt smoothly.

Transition into the lift

Once ready, transfer your weight into the harness by bending your knees and slightly "sitting" back. This movement lifts part of your weight off your feet, making it easier to tilt the board into the slide. Stay relaxed but engaged, keeping both hands on the bar to control the kite and maintain power. The goal is to pivot on the board without jumping or popping.

Kitesurfer: Tristan, GONG staff, with a Sway Wood Flex and Unik kite.

Tilting into the slide

This is where the magic happens: shift your weight to the side, directing your knees and hips towards the inside of the board. Slightly lift the front of the board to leave only the toeside edge in contact with the water. This position reduces resistance and allows you to extend the slide.

Weight placement: Keep your hips back and your shoulders above the back foot. The board should remain stable, with only a small section in contact with the water.
Let it glide: If the board starts to turn downwind, transfer more weight into the harness and adjust your back hand to rebalance the traction.

Kitesurfer: Tristan, GONG staff, with a Sway Wood Flex and Unik kite.

Hold and control

Once the board is in slide, focus on maintaining traction and your position. Keep both hands on the bar to adjust the kite if needed. If you feel the kite rising too much or losing power, gently correct with your back hand.

Bar control: Avoid pulling too hard on the bar, as this could either cause the kite to rise too quickly or move backward, disrupting your balance. If you lose control, gently release the bar for a smooth return.

Kitesurfer: Tristan, GONG staff, with a Sway Wood Flex and Unik kite.

Trick exit and landing

When you feel the slide coming to an end, prepare for your exit. Release some pressure from the tip of your twintip and let the kite’s traction bring you back into a normal position. If you have enough power, you can even add some style and height to your exit. Otherwise, simply let the kite pass through the window for a smooth landing.

For a more aerial move exit or to compensate for a lack of power at the end of the slide, you can perform a kiteloop with your back hand.

Tips for a successful Dark Slide:

Take it one step at a time: focus first on preparing and switching to the slide, then only on the slide and its exit.
Choose the right conditions: a flat water surface is naturally a serious asset, as is a constant wind.
Stay relaxed: the key to Dark Slide is control and fluidity. Stay relaxed in your movements. Avoid sudden movements. And if you feel comfortable, you can slide the board on the side of the front leg for a change and why not add a grab on the exit of the move: