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How we select the kites we carry
Spar Charts
These charts list spar measurements of various kites that Into The
Wind has carried over time, indexed by the year they appeared in the
catalog. When replacing a spar in a kite, it is best to determine the
diameter, length and spar material by referencing the instructions
included with the kite and/or measuring the actual spar that you're
replacing. Alternatively, these charts can be used to approximate the
replacement spar. They were compiled by measuring each kite listed,
only once. While we attempted to be as accurate and comprehensive as
possible, some entries are incomplete and errors exist. Since we make
no guarantees as to the reliability of this data, please use these
charts for verification purposes only.
The Into The Wind Spar Comparison Chart compares various spars and
materials by measuring weight in ounces per foot and also by indexing
the relative stiffness of select spars. The third column lists a
ratio calculated by dividing the stiffness of each spar by the weight
of that same spar. This chart is useful when you want to replace one
type of spar in a kite with an alternative spar. To maintain the
flying characteristics of your kite it is important to frame with a
material that is as similar in weight and stiffness to the original
spar as possible (i.e. has an identical or similar ratio). This data
is particularly valuable when it is necessary to replace a spar in an
older kite that is framed with obsolete material. Keep in mind that
even though two or more ratios may be similar, the actual spars can
still differ in diameter and stock length which may make substituting
one spar for another difficult or impossible. Also note that kite
symmetry is critical; if the frame on one side of the kite is
modified, the corresponding spar on the other half of the kite should
be replaced as well.
Spar Comparison Chart.
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