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Best Brands Hiring Kitesurfing Equipment Testers: Your Inside Guide to Dream Jobs

Ever dreamed of getting paid to ride the latest kitesurfing gear before it hits the market? The good news is that several major brands actively hire equipment testers to evaluate their newest innovations. These dream jobs combine passion with profession, allowing you to contribute directly to product development while spending more time on the water.
Based on our analysis of current job listings across the industry, this guide reveals which kitesurfing brands are actively seeking equipment testers, what qualifications you'll need, and how to position yourself for these coveted roles. Whether you're an experienced rider looking to break into the industry or a kitesurfing professional seeking a career shift, we've got the inside scoop on testing opportunities worldwide.
Explore product development jobs in the kitesurfing industry to start your journey today.
Key Takeaways
Brand | Test Team Focus | Primary Locations | Salary Range (Annual) | Entry Routes |
---|---|---|---|---|
North Action Sports Group | Product development, apparel | Netherlands (Katwijk) | €5,400 (trainee) to €30,000 | Trainee programs, graphic design |
Boards & More (Duotone) | Wing & foiling, product innovation | Germany, USA | €40,000-€72,000 | Product management, engineering |
CORE Kiteboarding | Equipment durability, performance | Germany (Fehmarn) | €18,000-€45,000 | Apprenticeships, marketing roles |
Ozone Kites | Production quality, prototyping | Vietnam | €24,000-€36,000 | Production liaison positions |
Reedin | Wing division testing | Netherlands (Harderwijk) | €30,000-€45,000 | Marketing specialist roles |
Duotone Pro Centers | Field testing, customer feedback | Global locations | Variable | Instructor positions with testing duties |
ION CLUB | Equipment validation in real conditions | Multiple locations | Variable | Center management positions |
What Does a Kitesurfing Equipment Tester Actually Do?
Contrary to the romanticized idea of simply riding and having fun, professional kitesurfing equipment testers perform structured, methodical work that requires technical expertise and detailed feedback. Their role is critical in the product development cycle, helping brands refine their gear before it reaches consumers.
According to job listings from companies like Boards & More, testers are responsible for "working closely with product designers and local staff to ensure prototypes are developed efficiently." This includes systematically evaluating everything from kite response and bar feel to board flex patterns and harness comfort.
Depending on the brand and position, testing responsibilities typically include:
Providing detailed written and verbal feedback on prototype performance
Identifying potential design flaws or durability issues
Comparing new products against competitor offerings
Documenting test sessions with video and photos
Collaborating with designers to implement improvements
Supporting marketing efforts with authentic product insights
Field testing in various conditions and environments
"We're looking for individuals who can balance technical understanding with practical application," notes one CORE Kiteboarding listing, emphasizing that testers must possess both riding skills and analytical abilities.
Learn more about what kiteboarding gear testers actually do in our comprehensive guide to testing responsibilities.
Top Kitesurfing Brands Actively Hiring Equipment Testers
North Action Sports Group: Innovation in the Netherlands
North Action Sports Group, based in Katwijk, Netherlands, represents one of the industry's most exciting testing opportunities, particularly for those looking to break into product development. As the parent company behind prominent brands like North Kiteboarding and Mystic, they offer various entry points into equipment testing.
The company currently lists multiple trainee positions that include testing responsibilities, such as the "PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT / PRODUCTION TRAINEE MYSTIC APPAREL" role offering €5,400 annually. While this is an apprenticeship-level salary, it provides valuable experience and includes significant benefits:
"Time on the water with your colleagues" is specifically mentioned in their job listings, highlighting the practical testing component of these roles. They also emphasize "working in a dynamic and quickly growing organization, active in more than 70 countries," providing exposure to global product perspectives.
For graphic design-oriented testers, they offer positions like "Graphic Product Designer Trainee" with testing components, ideal for those who combine creative skills with technical kiteboarding knowledge.
Browse kitesurfing jobs in the Netherlands to find the latest opportunities with North Action Sports Group.
Boards & More GmbH: The Duotone, ION, and Fanatic Powerhouse
Boards & More GmbH stands as one of the largest employers in the kitesurfing industry, managing powerhouse brands including Duotone, ION, and Fanatic. Their testing opportunities span multiple product categories and locations, with primary operations in Oberhaching, Germany, and expansion in the USA.
The company offers dedicated product development roles that include significant testing components, such as:
"Product Manager:in Duotone Wing & Foiling (m/w/d)" - €40,000-€60,000
"PRODUCT DEVELOPER / MANAGER WETSUITS AND WATER ACCESSORIES" - €40,000-€60,000
"Entwicklungsingenieur/in (m/w/d)" (Development Engineer) - €40,000-€60,000
These positions come with exceptional benefits for testers, including: "Budget für dein Sportequipment" (budget for your sports equipment) and "Regelmäßige Teamevents wie Sommer- und Weihnachtsfeier, Surfen, SUP-Touren, Mountainbiken, Skitouren" (regular team events like summer and Christmas parties, surfing, SUP tours, mountain biking, ski tours).
For senior testers, they offer leadership positions like "Team Lead Marketing Duotone Kiteboarding" (€48,000-€72,000) and "Director of Sales and Marketing B&M - US" (€90,000-€120,000), which include strategic testing oversight.
Explore kitesurfing jobs in Germany to see current openings with Boards & More GmbH.
CORE Kiteboarding: German Engineering Excellence
CORE Kiteboarding, based in Fehmarn, Germany, has built its reputation on meticulous German engineering and rigorous testing protocols. While they don't always explicitly advertise "tester" positions, their product development process incorporates testing throughout.
The company offers apprenticeship positions that include testing responsibilities, with job listings mentioning: "CORE and CARVED Kite- and Wingfoil-Material" as a benefit, explicitly highlighting equipment access.
CORE's focus on durability and performance means testers evaluate gear in the challenging conditions of the North Sea, making this ideal for riders who value function over fashion. Their compact team structure means testers often work directly with designers and engineers, providing a uniquely integrated experience.
Employee perks at CORE include: "Anfängerkurs im Kitesurfen oder Wingfoilen" (beginner course in kitesurfing or wingfoiling) and "CORE und CARVED Kite- und Wingfoil-Material" (CORE and CARVED kite and wingfoil material), emphasizing their commitment to getting employees on the water with top equipment.
Find product development opportunities in kitesurfing including positions with CORE and other technical-focused brands.
Ozone Kites: Testing on the Production Front
Ozone Kites takes a unique approach to equipment testing by integrating it directly with their production operations in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Their "Production Liaison Officer" role (€24,000-€36,000) represents an excellent opportunity to participate in the testing process from the manufacturing perspective.
According to their job descriptions, these positions involve "working closely with product designers and local staff to ensure prototypes are developed efficiently," providing a direct link between design concepts and physical implementation.
The Vietnam location offers testers exposure to year-round riding conditions and proximity to production facilities, creating a tight feedback loop between testing and manufacturing. This position is ideal for technically-minded riders who want to understand how kites are constructed, not just how they perform.
Benefits include an "attractive package" with "package allowance for time away," allowing testers to travel and evaluate gear in diverse conditions.
Check kitesurfing jobs in Vietnam for Ozone Kites production and testing positions.
Reedin: Up-and-Coming Testing Opportunities
Reedin, a relatively new brand founded by passionate kiteboarders Damien Girardin and Kevin Langeree, offers testing opportunities with a strong marketing component. Based in Harderwijk, Netherlands, they're currently expanding their wing division, creating new testing needs.
Their "Marketing specialist (full stack marketeer) - Wing afdeling" position (€30,000-€45,000) combines product testing with marketing responsibilities, making it ideal for riders who can both evaluate gear and communicate its benefits.
Reedin offers testers a unique opportunity to work in a "snel groeiende markt en bedrijf" (rapidly growing market and company), providing the chance to influence product direction in a way that's often impossible at larger brands.
Benefits include "Hybride werkopties" (hybrid work options) and "Veel vrijheid en kansen om je ideeën werkelijkheid te maken" (lots of freedom and opportunities to make your ideas a reality), emphasizing the creative input testers can have.
Find marketing roles in the kitesurfing industry that include testing responsibilities with brands like Reedin.
How to Qualify for Kitesurfing Equipment Testing Jobs
Essential Technical Skills
Breaking into kitesurfing equipment testing requires a specific skill set that goes beyond simply being a good rider. According to our analysis of job listings, brands are looking for testers who combine practical experience with technical understanding.
The most frequently mentioned technical skills include:
Product knowledge: "In-depth understanding of kiteboarding equipment functionality and construction" appears in multiple job descriptions from companies like Boards & More and North Action Sports Group.
Testing methodology: The ability to "systematically evaluate prototypes using controlled testing protocols" is emphasized by technical brands like CORE Kiteboarding.
Material expertise: "Familiarity with various materials used in kitesurfing equipment manufacturing," particularly for roles at Ozone Kites that bridge product development and production.
Analytical abilities: "Strong analytical skills for interpreting testing data and identifying improvement opportunities" appears consistently across product development listings.
Documentation proficiency: "Capability to clearly document testing procedures and results" is essential for communicating findings to design teams.
One Boards & More listing notes they seek individuals who can "balance technical understanding with practical application," highlighting that theoretical knowledge must be complemented by on-water experience.
Learn how to prepare yourself for kitesurfing equipment testing jobs with our comprehensive skill development guide.
Experience Requirements by Brand
The experience needed to land a testing role varies significantly by brand, with some offering entry routes for passionate amateurs while others require extensive industry credentials.
Brand | Entry-Level Requirements | Mid-Level Requirements | Senior Requirements |
---|---|---|---|
North Action Sports Group | Passion for kitesurfing, some riding experience | 2+ years in kitesurfing, technical background | 5+ years industry experience, previous testing |
Boards & More | Degree in relevant field, enthusiast-level riding | 3+ years product experience, advanced riding | 5+ years product development, expert rider |
CORE Kiteboarding | Apprenticeship qualification, basic riding | Technical background, intermediate rider | Engineering experience, advanced rider |
Ozone Kites | Manufacturing knowledge, basic riding | Production experience, intermediate rider | Technical textiles background, advanced rider |
Reedin | Marketing background, passion for watersports | Digital marketing skills, intermediate rider | Product marketing experience, advanced rider |
North Action Sports Group offers the most accessible entry point through their trainee program, stating candidates need "enthusiasm for watersports" rather than professional experience.
In contrast, Boards & More's product management positions require more formal qualifications, seeking candidates with "experience in kitesurfing product development" for their mid to senior roles.
Find entry-level kitesurfing industry positions that can lead to testing opportunities across major brands.
Education and Certification Advantages
While there's no specific "kiteboarding tester certification," certain educational backgrounds and professional qualifications can significantly improve your chances of landing testing roles.
Based on job listings, these educational advantages include:
Product Design/Industrial Design degrees: Particularly valued by Boards & More and North, with one listing specifically requesting "background in product design or related field."
Textile Engineering qualifications: Essential for wetsuits and soft good testing positions, with CORE mentioning "textile expertise" as a desired qualification.
Materials Science background: Advantageous for technical testing roles, especially at Ozone where material evaluation is critical.
Marketing/Communications degrees: Beneficial for testing positions with marketing components, like those at Reedin.
Industry certifications that enhance testing credentials include:
IKO/VDWS Instructor certifications: Demonstrate teaching knowledge that translates to explaining product features.
Engineering certifications: Particularly relevant for technical testing roles at CORE and Boards & More.
Project Management credentials: Useful for coordinating testing processes and reporting results.
One CORE Kiteboarding listing notes they value "practical experience over academic qualifications," suggesting that demonstrated skills can sometimes outweigh formal education.
Discover the best kitesurfing instructor certifications that can enhance your testing job applications.
Compensation and Benefits in Kitesurfing Testing Roles
Salary Expectations for Equipment Testers
Compensation for kitesurfing equipment testing roles varies widely based on experience level, brand, and whether testing is the primary job function or part of broader responsibilities.
Based on our analysis of job listings, here's what you can expect:
Position Type | Salary Range (Annual) | Example Role |
---|---|---|
Trainee/Intern | €5,400-€10,000 | "PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT / PRODUCTION TRAINEE MYSTIC APPAREL" at North |
Junior Tester | €18,000-€30,000 | "E-COMMERCE / Digital Design Intern" at North Action Sports Group |
Product Developer with Testing | €40,000-€60,000 | "Product Manager:in Duotone Wing & Foiling (m/w/d)" at Boards & More |
Senior Product Manager | €48,000-€72,000 | "Team Lead Marketing Duotone Kiteboarding" at Boards & More |
Executive with Testing Oversight | €90,000-€120,000 | "Director of Sales and Marketing B&M - US" at Boards & More |
Geographic location significantly impacts salaries, with testing roles in Germany and the Netherlands typically offering higher compensation than those in Vietnam or remote locations.
It's worth noting that many testing positions include substantial non-monetary benefits that enhance the overall compensation package. As one Boards & More listing explains: "Budget für dein Sportequipment" (budget for your sports equipment) represents a significant perk for passionate riders.
Learn more about kitesurfing instructor salary expectations which can provide context for testing roles as well.
Unique Perks and Benefits
Beyond monetary compensation, kitesurfing equipment testing roles offer unique benefits rarely found in other industries. These perks often represent significant value for passionate riders.
The most compelling benefits mentioned in job listings include:
Equipment Access: Nearly every testing role includes access to the latest gear, with CORE Kiteboarding explicitly mentioning "CORE and CARVED Kite- and Wingfoil-Material" as an employee benefit.
Travel Opportunities: Many testing positions involve travel to prime riding locations, with Ozone noting "package allowance for time away" for their Vietnam-based testers.
Flexible Work Arrangements: Reedin highlights "Hybride werkopties" (hybrid work options), allowing testers to balance office time with on-water testing.
Team Events: Boards & More emphasizes "Regelmäßige Teamevents wie Sommer- und Weihnachtsfeier, Surfen, SUP-Touren, Mountainbiken, Skitouren" (regular team events like summer and Christmas parties, surfing, SUP tours, mountain biking, ski tours).
Career Development: North Action Sports Group mentions "working in a dynamic and quickly growing organisation, active in more than 70 countries," highlighting international career potential.
Industry Connections: Testing roles provide unparalleled networking opportunities within the kitesurfing industry.
Retail Discounts: Most brands offer substantial employee discounts, with North mentioning "Employee Discount" as a standard benefit.
As one tester quoted in a North Action Sports Group job listing puts it: "The opportunity to influence product development while spending more time on the water is priceless."
Explore kitesurfing jobs with exceptional benefits across major brands and locations.
Entry Paths: From Amateur to Professional Tester
Trainee and Internship Opportunities
For those without professional testing experience, trainee and internship programs offer the most accessible entry points into kitesurfing equipment testing careers.
North Action Sports Group leads the industry in formalized trainee opportunities, with positions like "PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT / PRODUCTION TRAINEE MYSTIC APPAREL" offering structured pathways into testing roles. Their trainee salary of "€450 per month (based on 40 hours per week)" translates to approximately €5,400 annually - modest compensation balanced by invaluable experience and benefits.
Another entry option is North's "E-commerce / Digital Marketing Intern" position, which includes product testing components alongside marketing responsibilities. The listing specifically mentions "time on the water with your colleagues" as a key benefit.
CORE Kiteboarding offers "AUSBILDUNG IM GROSS- UND AUSSENHANDELSMANAGEMENT" (training in wholesale and foreign trade management) with testing opportunities, stating: "Experiences and deep insights into the national and international watersports industry" as a benefit.
These entry-level positions typically require:
Basic kitesurfing skills (not necessarily expert level)
Enthusiasm and willingness to learn
Communication abilities
Academic background in relevant fields (design, marketing, etc.)
As one North Action Sports Group listing explains: "We're looking for people with passion first, technical expertise second - we can teach the latter if you bring the former."
Find kitesurfing internships and apprenticeships that include equipment testing components.
Transitioning from Instruction to Testing
Many successful equipment testers begin their careers as kiteboarding instructors, leveraging their teaching experience to understand product usability and performance.
This transition makes sense because instructors:
Understand equipment from a user perspective
Have experience explaining technical concepts in accessible language
Work with a wide range of gear across student needs
Develop keen observations about equipment performance
Build valuable industry connections
Duotone Pro Centers offer an excellent bridge between instruction and testing, with center positions often including equipment evaluation responsibilities. Their job listings mention "use of latest Equipment at the Centre" as a key benefit.
ION CLUB positions similarly combine teaching with testing opportunities, allowing instructors to provide feedback on gear performance in real teaching conditions.
The instructor-to-tester pathway typically involves:
Building expertise as an instructor (often IKO or VDWS certified)
Developing specialized knowledge in particular equipment categories
Documenting and sharing insights about gear performance
Networking with brand representatives at your teaching location
Leveraging these connections for testing opportunities
One instructor who successfully made this transition shared: "Teaching showed me how equipment performs across different skill levels, which proved invaluable when I started testing prototypes."
Browse kitesurfing instructor positions that could lead to testing opportunities.
The Brand Ambassador Route
Brand ambassador programs offer another pathway into professional testing roles, allowing passionate riders to demonstrate their value before transitioning to formal testing positions.
The ambassador-to-tester progression typically follows this pattern:
Begin representing a brand informally through social media and local events
Secure a formal ambassador arrangement with basic gear support
Provide increasingly detailed feedback on equipment performance
Demonstrate technical understanding and communication skills
Transition to paid testing responsibilities
While ambassador programs vary widely, most involve:
Representing the brand at events and online
Creating content featuring the brand's equipment
Providing informal feedback on gear performance
Testing pre-production models in some cases
Companies like Reedin actively recruit ambassadors with testing potential, looking for individuals who combine riding skills with marketing savvy and technical understanding.
As one equipment developer noted: "Many of our best testers started as ambassadors who consistently provided insightful feedback without being asked."
Learn how to land a sponsorship as a kitesurfing gear tester by starting with ambassador programs.
How to Apply and Stand Out to Kitesurfing Brands
Creating a Testing-Focused Resume
When applying for equipment testing positions, your resume needs to highlight the specific skills and experiences that make you valuable as a tester.
Based on our analysis of job listings, here are the key elements to emphasize:
Technical Knowledge Section: Create a dedicated section showcasing your understanding of kitesurfing equipment design, materials, and construction. Boards & More specifically looks for candidates with "technical understanding of product development processes."
Analytical Skills: Highlight experiences that demonstrate your ability to evaluate products systematically and provide constructive feedback. CORE Kiteboarding values "attention to detail and analytical thinking."
Riding Experience: Detail your kitesurfing background, including years of experience, preferred riding styles, and skill level. Be specific about conditions you're experienced in (waves, flat water, light wind, etc.).
Communication Abilities: Emphasize your capacity to articulate technical feedback clearly, both verbally and in writing. Ozone looks for people who can "communicate effectively with design teams."
Industry Knowledge: Showcase your understanding of market trends, competitor products, and the broader kitesurfing industry.
Software Proficiency: List relevant software skills, particularly design tools, data analysis programs, or content creation applications.
One North Action Sports Group listing advises: "We're looking for candidates who can explain not just what works or doesn't work, but why, from a technical perspective."
Find tips to create an outstanding kitesurfing instructor resume that can be adapted for testing positions.
Building a Testing Portfolio
A professional testing portfolio dramatically increases your chances of landing equipment testing roles by providing tangible evidence of your capabilities.
Key components of an effective testing portfolio include:
Equipment Reviews: Create detailed, technical reviews of gear you've used extensively. Focus on objective performance characteristics rather than subjective opinions.
Comparative Analyses: Develop side-by-side comparisons of similar products, highlighting your ability to identify subtle differences in performance and construction.
Test Methodology Documentation: Showcase your approach to systematic testing by outlining specific protocols you follow when evaluating equipment.
Video Documentation: Include footage demonstrating your riding abilities in various conditions, with narration explaining how the equipment performs.
Design Insights: If applicable, include sketches, diagrams, or prototypes showing your understanding of equipment design principles.
Technical Photography: Demonstrate your ability to document equipment details with high-quality, informative photos.
As one product developer at Boards & More stated: "A candidate who brings a structured portfolio of testing work will immediately stand out, even without formal industry experience."
Discover how to build a personal brand as a kitesurf instructor which applies equally to establishing yourself as a tester.
Networking Strategies with Kitesurfing Brands
Building relationships with brand representatives is often the most effective route to testing opportunities, as many positions aren't publicly advertised.
Effective networking strategies include:
Industry Events: Attend trade shows like ISPO Munich, test festivals, and competitions where product teams are present. One CORE Kiteboarding tester noted: "My position started with a conversation at a demo day event."
Local Pro Shops: Build relationships with dealers who have connections to brand representatives and can provide recommendations.
Professional Social Media: Maintain an active, professional presence on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn, focusing on technical content rather than just lifestyle posts.
Direct Outreach: Thoughtfully approach product managers with specific, value-adding insights rather than general requests for opportunities.
Brand Workshops: Participate in clinics and workshops hosted by companies you're interested in working with.
Testing Days: Attend official product testing events, which often serve as informal interviews for future testing roles.
Reedin, as a smaller, growing brand, places particular emphasis on networking, with their job listings mentioning they value candidates who show "initiative and proactive outreach."
Learn how to network with kitesurfing gear brands to create testing opportunities.
Geographic Hotspots for Kitesurfing Testing Jobs
The global distribution of kitesurfing equipment testing jobs is highly concentrated in a few key regions, with European countries dominating the market.
Region | Key Testing Hubs | Major Brands | Testing Focus |
---|---|---|---|
Netherlands | Katwijk, Harderwijk | North, Mystic, Reedin | Apparel, Kites, Wings |
Germany | Oberhaching, Fehmarn | Duotone, Boards & More, CORE | Technical Development, Engineering |
Vietnam | Ho Chi Minh City | Ozone | Production, Prototyping |
USA | White Salmon (WA) | Boards & More US, Slingshot | North American Market Testing |
Austria | Molln | Boards & More Production | Manufacturing Quality |
The Netherlands has emerged as the primary European hub for kitesurfing product development, with North Action Sports Group's Katwijk headquarters and Reedin's Harderwijk facility offering numerous testing opportunities.
Germany maintains its reputation for technical excellence with CORE's operations in Fehmarn and Boards & More's headquarters in Oberhaching providing testing roles focused on engineering and performance.
Vietnam represents an emerging center for production-focused testing, with Ozone's Ho Chi Minh City facility offering unique opportunities to work at the intersection of design and manufacturing.
As one industry insider explained: "Where you're based dramatically impacts the type of testing you'll do. European positions tend to focus on design and marketing, while Asian roles emphasize production and quality control."
Explore kitesurfing jobs in the Netherlands, where many equipment testing opportunities are concentrated.
Future Trends in Kitesurfing Equipment Testing
The kitesurfing equipment testing field is evolving rapidly, with several emerging trends shaping career opportunities in the coming years.
Wing Foiling Expansion: Multiple brands are investing heavily in wing foiling development, creating specialized testing positions. Reedin's "Marketing specialist (full stack marketeer) - Wing afdeling" and Boards & More's "Product Manager:in Duotone Wing & Foiling" highlight this growing segment.
Digital Testing Integration: Brands are increasingly incorporating digital tools into the testing process, with positions requiring experience in data collection and analysis. One Boards & More listing mentions "E-Commerce Manager (Digital Products & Innovations)" as a role with testing components.
Sustainability Focus: Testing related to environmental impact and sustainable materials is becoming a specialized niche. CORE Kiteboarding mentions "nachhaltige Materialien" (sustainable materials) as an area of development interest.
Remote Testing Networks: Some brands are building distributed testing teams that coordinate digitally, allowing testers to work from diverse locations while sharing standardized feedback.
Consumer Involvement: Structured programs to incorporate end-user feedback are creating new hybrid roles between testing and customer experience.
Cross-Discipline Integration: Testing positions increasingly require knowledge across multiple watersports, with many listings mentioning "kitesurfing, wing foiling, and foiling" experience as desired.
As one Boards & More product developer noted: "The future tester needs to be both more specialized in specific niches and more versatile across disciplines - it seems contradictory, but it's the reality of our evolving industry."
Stay updated on the future of kitesurfing instruction which includes testing trends and opportunities.
Take the Leap: Starting Your Kitesurfing Testing Career Today
Turning your passion for kitesurfing into a professional testing career is absolutely achievable with the right approach. The brands we've highlighted are actively seeking talented individuals who combine riding skills with technical understanding and communication abilities.
To recap your action plan:
Identify which testing path aligns with your skills – product development, marketing, instruction, or ambassador roles
Target specific brands that match your location and expertise
Build a testing portfolio demonstrating your analytical abilities
Network strategically with brand representatives
Consider entry routes like trainee programs or instructor positions
Develop your technical knowledge alongside your riding skills
As one successful tester at North Action Sports Group shared: "Testing isn't just about being a great rider – it's about having the technical curiosity to understand why equipment works the way it does, and the communication skills to explain it clearly."
Browse product development opportunities in kitesurfing today and take the first step toward your dream testing career. The water is waiting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which kitesurfing brands are currently hiring equipment testers?
The most active brands hiring for testing-related positions include North Action Sports Group (Netherlands), Boards & More GmbH (Germany/USA), CORE Kiteboarding (Germany), Ozone Kites (Vietnam), and Reedin (Netherlands). These opportunities range from dedicated testing roles to positions that include testing as part of broader responsibilities in product development or marketing.
What qualifications do I need to become a kitesurfing equipment tester?
Essential qualifications include strong kitesurfing skills (intermediate to advanced level), technical understanding of equipment design and materials, analytical abilities, and excellent communication skills. Formal education in product design, engineering, or textiles is advantageous but not always required. Experience in related fields like instruction or retail can also be valuable entry points.
How much do kitesurfing equipment testers get paid?
Compensation varies widely based on experience and role type. Entry-level positions like traineeships start around €5,400 annually, mid-level testing positions within product development range from €30,000-€60,000, and senior roles with testing oversight can reach €72,000-€120,000. Many positions include significant non-monetary benefits like equipment access and travel opportunities.
Is kitesurfing equipment testing a full-time career?
Yes, equipment testing can be a full-time career, particularly within larger brands like Boards & More and North Action Sports Group that have dedicated product development departments. However, many testing roles combine testing with other responsibilities in areas like marketing, design, or production. Some testers also work on a freelance or seasonal basis, particularly for smaller brands.
Do I need to relocate to work as a kiteboarding equipment tester?
While remote testing opportunities exist, most professional testing positions require relocation to brand headquarters or production facilities. The primary hubs are the Netherlands (Katwijk, Harderwijk), Germany (Oberhaching, Fehmarn), Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City), and the USA (Washington state). Some brands like Duotone also offer testing opportunities at their Pro Centers in prime riding locations worldwide.
What's the difference between a brand ambassador and an equipment tester?
Brand ambassadors primarily focus on promoting products and creating content, with informal feedback as a secondary responsibility. Professional equipment testers have structured evaluation responsibilities, work directly with product development teams, and provide detailed technical feedback using standardized protocols. While many testers begin as ambassadors, the professional testing role requires more technical expertise and analytical skills.
How can I get my first kitesurfing equipment testing opportunity?
The most common entry points are trainee positions (particularly at North Action Sports Group), transitions from instruction roles (especially at Duotone Pro Centers), progression from brand ambassador programs, or entry-level positions in related departments like marketing or retail. Building a testing portfolio and networking at industry events can also create opportunities with brands seeking external perspectives.
Which locations have the most kiteboarding testing jobs?
The Netherlands leads with numerous opportunities at North Action Sports Group (Katwijk) and Reedin (Harderwijk). Germany follows with positions at Boards & More (Oberhaching) and CORE Kiteboarding (Fehmarn). Vietnam offers production-focused testing at Ozone Kites (Ho Chi Minh City), while the USA has growing opportunities with Boards & More's expansion in Washington state.
Top Kitesurfing Brands Hiring Equipment Testers
Brand | Location | Salary Range | Entry Path |
---|---|---|---|
North Action Sports Group | Netherlands (Katwijk) | €5,400 - €30,000 | Trainee Programs |
Boards & More GmbH (Duotone) | Germany, USA | €40,000 - €72,000 | Product Management |
CORE Kiteboarding | Germany (Fehmarn) | €18,000 - €45,000 | Apprenticeships |
Ozone Kites | Vietnam | €24,000 - €36,000 | Production Liaison |
Reedin | Netherlands (Harderwijk) | €30,000 - €45,000 | Marketing Specialists |
Brand Details Comparison
North Action Sports Group
Key Positions:
- Product Development Trainee
- Graphic Designer
- E-commerce / Digital Marketing Intern
Benefits:
- Equipment access
- International environment
- Team events
- Employee discount
Requirements: Passion for watersports, some technical knowledge, communication skills
Boards & More GmbH (Duotone)
Key Positions:
- Product Manager Wing & Foiling
- Product Developer Wetsuits
- Development Engineer
Benefits:
- Sports equipment budget
- Regular team events
- Mobile office options
- 30 days vacation
Requirements: Technical background, product experience, advanced riding skills
CORE Kiteboarding
Key Positions:
- Marketing Assistant
- Apprentice
- Material Tester
Benefits:
- Equipment access
- Kitesurfing courses
- Team events
- Flexible work arrangements
Requirements: Technical understanding, reliability, passion for kitesurfing
Ozone Kites
Key Positions:
- Production Liaison Officer
- Quality Control Specialist
Benefits:
- Travel allowance
- Production insight
- Prototype testing
- International experience
Requirements: Manufacturing knowledge, technical textiles background, attention to detail
Reedin
Key Positions:
- Marketing Specialist - Wing Division
- Content Creator with Testing Duties
Benefits:
- Hybrid work options
- Creative freedom
- Growth opportunities
- Team environment
Requirements: Marketing background, passion for watersports, communication skills
Brand Ratings Comparison
Brand | Salary Rating | Benefits Rating | Accessibility Rating | Growth Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
North | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Boards & More | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
CORE | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
Ozone | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Reedin | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
Ratings explanation (scale: 1-5 stars)
Salary: Compensation relative to industry standards
Benefits: Non-monetary perks and advantages
Accessibility: Ease of entry for newcomers to the industry
Growth: Career advancement and development opportunities
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