How to Become a Kitesurfing Equipment Tester: Your Ultimate Guide

Becoming a kitesurfing equipment tester combines your passion for riding with technical expertise, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills. It's not just about having fun on the water (though that's a major perk)—it's about providing valuable feedback that shapes the future of kiteboarding gear. The good news? The industry is growing, and brands are constantly seeking qualified testers to evaluate their latest innovations.

Want to get paid to ride the newest kites, boards, and accessories before they hit the market? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from essential skills and career paths to potential employers and salary expectations. Whether you're dreaming of a full-time testing role or looking to supplement your income while doing what you love, I'll show you how to make it happen.

Ready to turn your kitesurfing passion into a career? Browse kitesurfing product development jobs and take your first step toward becoming a professional equipment tester.

Key Takeaways

What Does a Kitesurfing Equipment Tester Actually Do?

A kitesurfing equipment tester doesn't just ride gear and say "this is good" or "this feels off." The role involves systematic evaluation, documentation, and communication about every aspect of kiteboarding equipment performance.

Your typical day might include methodically testing new kites in various wind conditions, documenting how boards respond to different water states, or evaluating the durability of control systems. You'll collect data on aspects like:

• Power delivery and depower response

• Turning speed and radius

• Upwind performance

• Jumping capabilities

• Relaunch ease

• Durability under stress

• Comfort during extended sessions

• Setup and breakdown efficiency

At Reedin, founded by professional kiteboarders Damien Girardin and Kevin Langeree, product testing is fundamental to their mission of "enhancing every session for our customers through innovative product design and development." This customer-centered approach requires testers who can translate technical observations into actionable insights.

Testing isn't just riding—it's riding with purpose. You'll need to maintain detailed logs, write comprehensive reports, and often create content showcasing your findings. For companies like Boards & More GmbH (makers of Duotone, ION, and Fanatic), testers are crucial links between designers, marketers, and end users.

"We value a hands-on approach," notes one job listing from Reedin, highlighting that theoretical knowledge alone isn't enough—you need to get your feet wet (literally) and provide practical feedback.

Want to dive deeper into a tester's daily routine? Learn more about what kiteboarding gear testers do day-to-day and see if it matches your expectations.

Essential Skills You'll Need to Become a Kitesurfing Gear Tester

Transforming your passion for kitesurfing into a professional testing career requires a specific skill set. Here's what you'll need to succeed:

Technical Kitesurfing Experience and Knowledge

First and foremost, you need to be an accomplished kitesurfer. This doesn't necessarily mean you're competing professionally, but you should have:

• Advanced riding abilities across multiple disciplines (freeriding, freestyle, wave)

• Experience with various equipment types (C-kites, hybrids, foil kites, twintips, directionals)

• Understanding of how gear performs in different conditions (light wind, strong wind, flat water, waves)

• Ability to detect subtle differences in equipment behavior

As CORE Kiteboarding GmbH notes in their job listings, they seek "individuals with very good knowledge in this field" who can bring real-world perspective to product evaluation. Your personal experience as a rider is your foundation.

Most companies expect at least 3-5 years of serious kitesurfing experience before considering someone for a testing role. Having instructor certifications can be a plus, as they demonstrate a solid understanding of the technical aspects of the sport. Check out kitesurfing education and training opportunities to enhance your credentials.

Analytical and Evaluation Skills

Riding well isn't enough—you need to analyze systematically:

• Methodical testing approaches (creating repeatable conditions)

• Data collection and documentation protocols

• Comparative analysis skills (benchmarking against existing products)

• Objective evaluation methods (separating personal preference from performance facts)

"An analytical mindset is essential," states a Boards & More job listing for their product development team, highlighting the importance of organized thinking.

When testing, you'll need to isolate variables, understand cause-and-effect relationships in equipment design, and communicate findings precisely. This scientific approach distinguishes professional testers from casual riders with opinions.

Learning how to give professional feedback on kitesurfing gear is crucial for career advancement in this field.

Communication and Content Creation Abilities

Modern equipment testers are often content creators too:

• Technical writing skills for detailed reports

• Photography and videography for documenting tests

• Social media management to showcase findings

• Public speaking/presentation abilities for team meetings and events

Many job listings explicitly mention "sehr gute Kommunikationsfähigkeiten" (very good communication skills) as a requirement. North Action Sports Group, for example, seeks candidates who can effectively communicate insights to both technical teams and marketing departments.

The ability to translate complex technical observations into clear, actionable feedback is invaluable. Whether writing internal reports or creating public-facing content, communication skills will set you apart.

If your content creation skills need polishing, consider exploring marketing and content roles in the kitesurfing industry to build relevant experience.

Career Paths to Becoming a Kitesurfing Equipment Tester

There isn't just one route to becoming a professional kitesurfing equipment tester. Here are the three most common career paths, each with its own advantages:

Freelance Reviewer and Content Creator Route

Many successful testers start by creating their own platform:

1. Launch a kitesurfing review blog, YouTube channel, or Instagram account

2. Begin reviewing your own gear with professional-quality content

3. Approach smaller brands for demo equipment

4. Build a following through consistent, high-quality reviews

5. Monetize through affiliate links, advertising, and eventually, paid testing opportunities

"I needed to give my business a complete makeover," shared one successful gear reviewer who transformed their hobby into a sustainable business by focusing on detailed, honest evaluations that stood out from typical promotional content.

The freelance route offers independence and creative control, but requires self-motivation and business savvy. You'll need to invest in your own equipment initially and build credibility through consistent, high-quality content before brands will send you gear to test.

Compare freelance versus full-time kitesurfing gear testing jobs to see which approach might work better for your lifestyle.

Brand Ambassador Track

Brand ambassadors often evolve into equipment testers:

1. Become visible in your local kitesurfing community

2. Develop a strong social media presence showcasing your skills

3. Represent brands at events and demonstrations

4. Provide informal feedback on equipment

5. Transition into more formal testing roles

North Action Sports Group highlights the value of "time on the water with colleagues" as part of their team culture, reflecting how relationship-building can lead to testing opportunities.

Ambassadors typically receive free or discounted gear before being offered paid testing positions. While this path may take longer, it often leads to stronger brand relationships and more stable opportunities.

Interested in this approach? Learn how to land a sponsorship as a kitesurfing gear tester for practical steps.

Product Development Team Member

The most direct path to professional testing is joining a manufacturer:

1. Pursue relevant education (product design, sports engineering, materials science)

2. Apply for internships at kiteboarding companies

3. Start in entry-level product development positions

4. Incorporate testing into your role

5. Specialize in equipment evaluation over time

Boards & More GmbH offers positions like "Product Manager:in Duotone Wing & Foiling" that include testing as part of broader product development responsibilities. Their job listings emphasize a "dynamic and quickly growing organization" where team members can develop specialized skills.

This route provides stability, formal training, and clear career progression. Entry might require relocating to industry hubs in Germany or the Netherlands, but offers the most direct path to full-time testing work.

Check out available internships and apprenticeships in the kitesurfing industry to find doorways into product development teams.

Major Companies That Hire Kitesurfing Equipment Testers

The kitesurfing industry has several key players that regularly hire equipment testers. Here's a breakdown of the major companies and what they offer:

"Founded in 2000, the company has successfully integrated top-tier brands like Duotone, Fanatic, ION, and SQlab, and is recognized for its commitment to quality and performance in the action sports industry," notes company information about Boards & More, making it one of the largest potential employers for testers.

Most of these companies maintain both office-based positions and field testing roles. Their job listings often include language about "commitment to sustainability and innovation" and creating products that "enhance every session for our customers."

Geographic location matters in this industry. Germany hosts multiple major brands, with kitesurfing job opportunities in Oberhaching (Boards & More HQ) and positions in Fehmarn (CORE Kiteboarding).

Similarly, the Netherlands has become a kiteboarding industry hub with companies like North Action Sports Group in Katwijk and Reedin in Harderwijk offering various roles that include testing components.

Production-focused positions can be found in Vietnam, where Ozone Kites maintains manufacturing facilities with testing roles that focus on quality control and product development.

These companies frequently recruit at industry events and through their websites' career pages, so regular networking and checking for new openings is essential.

How Much Do Kitesurfing Equipment Testers Earn?

Compensation for kitesurfing equipment testers varies widely based on your role, experience level, and employment type. Here's what you can expect:

Salary Ranges by Position and Experience

Entry into the industry often begins with internships. As North Action Sports Group states in their job listings: "Trainee salary: €450 per month (based on 40 hours per week)." While this might seem modest, these positions provide crucial experience and industry connections.

Mid-level positions that include testing responsibilities offer more competitive compensation. Boards & More lists positions like "E-Commerce Manager (Digital Products & Innovations)" with salary ranges of "€45,000-€65,000," reflecting the value placed on those who can evaluate products while contributing to other aspects of the business.

Beyond Base Salary: Additional Compensation

Equipment testing roles typically include significant non-monetary benefits:

• Equipment budgets: "Budget für dein Sportequipment" appears in multiple Boards & More job listings

• Product discounts: "Employee Discount" - North Action Sports Group

• Travel opportunities for testing in various conditions

• Flexible work arrangements: "Mobile Office Regelung" - Boards & More

• Team events: "Regelmäßige Teamevents wie Sommer- und Weihnachtsfeier, Surfen, SUP-Touren, Mountainbiken, Skitouren" - Boards & More

These perks can significantly enhance the overall compensation package, especially for passionate kitesurfers who would otherwise spend substantial amounts on gear and travel.

Freelance Testing Economics

Freelance testers typically earn through:

• Per-review payments from brands

• Affiliate commission from equipment recommendations

• Sponsored content fees

• Consulting rates for specific testing projects

While potentially less stable than full-time positions, freelance testing can be lucrative for those who build a strong reputation and audience. Some successful reviewers report earning €20,000-€40,000 annually through combined revenue streams.

Interested in the financial aspects? Learn more about how to get paid to test kitesurfing equipment for detailed strategies.

Building Your Kitesurfing Equipment Testing Portfolio

Creating a compelling portfolio is essential for landing testing opportunities. Here's how to build a professional body of work that showcases your testing abilities:

Creating Compelling Testing Content

Start documenting your experiences with gear, even before you have official testing roles:

• Develop your own testing methodology: Create a consistent framework for evaluating equipment across categories like performance, durability, and user experience.

• Showcase before/after comparisons: Document how equipment performs when new versus after extended use, highlighting durability and wear patterns.

• Provide context-rich assessments: Test gear in varied conditions (light wind, strong wind, flat water, choppy, waves) to demonstrate comprehensive evaluation skills.

• Balance technical detail with accessibility: As Reedin's marketing positions emphasize, you need to combine "technical knowledge with marketing flair" to create content that's both informative and engaging.

Your initial reviews might focus on your personal gear, but should demonstrate the same rigor you'd apply to professional testing. Quality matters more than quantity—a few in-depth, well-structured reviews will impress brands more than numerous superficial assessments.

Looking to improve your review content? Check out best practices for writing kitesurfing equipment reviews to elevate your portfolio.

Developing Technical Expertise

To stand out as a tester, showcase specialized knowledge in:

• Materials science: Understand how different fabrics, composites, and components perform and deteriorate.

• Design principles: Demonstrate knowledge of how shape, profile, and construction affect performance.

• Historical context: Show familiarity with equipment evolution and how new products compare to previous generations.

• Cross-discipline insights: Apply knowledge from related fields like windsurfing or paragliding when relevant.

Companies like CORE Kiteboarding value testers who bring technical depth to their evaluations. Their communications emphasize "teamwork, reliability, and a strong sense of community among colleagues." Your expertise contributes directly to product improvement.

Learn what factors to evaluate when reviewing kiteboarding boards to develop more technical depth in your assessments.

Networking with Brands and Industry Professionals

Even the best portfolio needs visibility:

• Attend industry events: Trade shows, competitions, and demo days provide opportunities to meet brand representatives.

• Engage professionally on social media: Comment thoughtfully on brand posts, share insights, and build relationships online.

• Connect with existing testers: Learn from those already in the role through respectful outreach and genuine interest.

• Participate in beta testing programs: Many brands have formal or informal groups of riders who provide initial feedback.

As North Action Sports Group notes, they value "an international environment that respects diversity, equality, and individuality," suggesting personal connections matter alongside technical skills.

Building these relationships takes time but pays dividends when opportunities arise. A portfolio seen by the right people is infinitely more valuable than one that exists in isolation.

For networking strategies specific to the kiteboarding industry, explore how to network with kitesurfing gear brands for practical approaches.

Step-by-Step Guide to Landing Your First Testing Opportunity

Ready to pursue your first professional testing role? Follow this roadmap to position yourself for success:

1. Perfect Your Kitesurfing Skills

Before anything else, become an exceptional rider. Focus on:

• Mastering various disciplines (freeride, freestyle, wave, foiling)

• Understanding how to handle equipment in all conditions

• Developing sensitivity to subtle gear differences

"Dynamic team environment that respects diversity, equality, and individuality," notes North Action Sports Group, emphasizing that your personal skills form the foundation of your testing career.

2. Document Your Current Gear Experiences

Start building your portfolio now:

• Create detailed logs of your existing equipment

• Note performance characteristics in different conditions

• Document wear patterns and durability issues

• Take high-quality photos and videos of your sessions

This creates a baseline of your evaluation abilities, showing brands you already think analytically about equipment.

3. Create Sample Reviews

Develop professional-quality content without waiting for official assignments:

• Write comprehensive reviews of your personal gear

• Create comparison videos between different models

• Publish your insights on a blog or social platform

• Ensure content demonstrates both technical knowledge and communication skills

One equipment tester shared: "I started by reviewing my own gear collection on YouTube. After six months of consistent content, a smaller brand reached out offering demo equipment."

4. Build a Professional Online Presence

Establish yourself as a knowledgeable voice:

• Create a dedicated website or comprehensive social media profile

• Develop a consistent visual style and evaluation framework

• Engage with the kitesurfing community online

• Network with other reviewers and industry professionals

Companies are increasingly looking for testers with established audiences. As Boards & More notes in their marketing positions, they value individuals who can "contribute to both planning and execution of various marketing initiatives."

5. Approach Entry-Level Opportunities

Target realistic first steps:

• Apply for internships with kiteboarding brands (check internship opportunities here)

• Reach out to smaller, newer brands who need exposure

• Volunteer to help at demo events

• Offer to beta test new products with detailed feedback

"Trainee salary (€450 / 40 hours)" may not sound luxurious, but as North Action Sports Group notes, these entry positions provide invaluable experience and connections.

6. Pursue Formal Applications

When you're ready for professional roles:

• Monitor job boards (especially kitesurfok.com) for relevant openings

• Prepare a specialized resume highlighting relevant skills

• Create a testing-focused portfolio website

• Be prepared to relocate to industry hubs in Germany or the Netherlands

"We foster a supportive and engaging work environment," notes CORE Kiteboarding, indicating that cultural fit matters alongside technical qualifications.

7. Follow Up and Build Relationships

This industry runs on connections:

• Send thank-you notes after interviews or meetings

• Provide value through insights even when not formally testing

• Stay visible at industry events

• Demonstrate professionalism and reliability in all interactions

Landing your first opportunity often requires persistence. Learn more about how to land a sponsorship as a gear tester for additional strategies.

Best Locations for Kitesurfing Equipment Testing Careers

The kiteboarding industry has clear geographic centers where testing opportunities concentrate. Here's where to focus your job search:

Germany: The Heart of European Kiteboarding Innovation

Germany hosts several major kiteboarding brands:

• Oberhaching (near Munich): Headquarters of Boards & More GmbH, parent company of Duotone, ION, and Fanatic. Their job listings emphasize "attractive employee conditions" and "regular team events like summer and Christmas parties, surfing, SUP tours, mountain biking, ski tours."

• Fehmarn: Home to CORE Kiteboarding GmbH, known for high-performance kites and innovative technologies. They offer "30 days of annual leave" and "budget for your sports equipment" among other benefits.

These locations combine office-based product development with access to testing locations, making them ideal for full-time equipment testers. Browse kitesurfing jobs in Germany to find current opportunities.

Netherlands: Growing Hub for Kiteboarding Brands

The Netherlands has become increasingly important in the kiteboarding industry:

• Katwijk: Base for North Action Sports Group, which values "an international environment that respects diversity, equality, and individuality" according to their job listings.

• Harderwijk: Home to Reedin, founded by professional kiteboarders, offering "unique opportunities to work in a rapidly growing market and company."

The Dutch coast provides testing grounds while maintaining proximity to business operations. Explore kitesurfing positions in the Netherlands for the latest openings.

Vietnam: Production and Testing Center

Vietnam plays a crucial role in kiteboarding equipment testing:

• Ho Chi Minh City: Ozone Kites maintains production facilities here, with roles like "Production Liaison Officer" that include equipment testing responsibilities.

This location offers a unique perspective on the manufacturing process alongside testing opportunities. Check Vietnam-based kitesurfing roles for current listings.

Comparing Key Locations

"The company operates in multiple locations, including Oberhaching, Germany, and White Salmon, Washington, USA, creating a dynamic and collaborative environment," notes Boards & More, highlighting the international nature of the industry.

For more insights on global testing locations, check out this guide to best locations for kitesurfing equipment testing.

Challenges and Realities of Equipment Testing Jobs

While testing kitesurfing gear sounds like a dream job, it comes with real challenges you should consider:

Balancing Objectivity and Brand Relationships

As a tester, you'll face the constant challenge of providing honest feedback while maintaining positive brand relationships. Companies value honesty—Boards & More emphasizes "quick decision-making paths" in their culture—but navigating criticism requires diplomacy.

One veteran tester shared: "I had to learn how to deliver constructive criticism that brands could actually use, rather than vague positive or negative reactions. It's a skill that took time to develop."

This balance becomes particularly delicate when testing reveals significant issues with products. Your job is to identify problems before customers do, but how you communicate those findings matters tremendously.

Seasonal Workload and Income Fluctuations

Testing often follows seasonal patterns:

• Heavy testing periods preceding product launches

• Weather-dependent testing windows

• Trade show and event-based deadlines

This creates workload peaks and valleys that can strain both freelance and full-time testers. As North Action Sports Group notes, you'll be "working in a dynamic and quickly growing organization," which often means adapting to changing priorities and timelines.

Physical Demands and Travel Requirements

Testing is physically demanding work:

• Long hours on the water in various conditions

• Travel to different testing locations

• Risk of injury affecting testing schedules

• Adaptation to different equipment constantly

"Time on the water with colleagues" may sound appealing in North Action Sports Group's job listings, but the reality includes exhausting days pushing equipment to its limits in challenging conditions.

Competitive Industry with Limited Top Positions

The industry has more aspiring testers than professional positions:

• Primary employers (Boards & More, North, CORE, etc.) have limited openings

• Competition includes professional riders with established reputations

• Entry positions often require geographical relocation

This competitive landscape means persistence and networking are crucial. As Reedin notes, they value individuals who can take advantage of "opportunities for professional growth and development" by distinguishing themselves from the competition.

Need for Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Equipment technology evolves rapidly:

• New materials and construction methods emerge

• Testing protocols change with innovations

• Digital content expectations continuously increase

• Market trends shift priorities

"Commitment to sustainability and innovation" means constant adaptation, as Boards & More emphasizes in their company culture. Today's testing expertise may need significant updating in just a few years.

For a realistic perspective on the challenges testers face, check out common mistakes when testing kitesurfing equipment to prepare yourself for success.

Turning Your Testing Experience Into a Long-Term Career

Equipment testing can be a stepping stone to various careers in the kiteboarding industry. Here's how to leverage your testing expertise for long-term professional growth:

Advancing to Product Development Roles

With testing experience, you're positioned to move into product design and development:

• Product Manager: Boards & More offers positions like "Product Manager:in Duotone Wing & Foiling" with salaries ranging from "€40,000-€60,000." These roles involve overseeing entire product lines, using testing insights to guide development.

• Product Developer/Designer: These technical positions focus on implementing improvements based on testing feedback. As one Boards & More listing states, they seek people with "flat hierarchies & quick decision-making" abilities.

• Innovation Specialist: Some companies have dedicated roles for exploring new technologies and materials, perfect for testers who love pushing boundaries.

Testing provides invaluable hands-on knowledge that helps you understand what works and why—essential context for developing new products. Explore product development opportunities to see what's currently available.

Building a Media Career Around Testing

Your testing expertise and communication skills can launch a media career:

• Equipment Review Specialist: Major kiteboarding publications and websites hire dedicated gear reviewers.

• Video Content Creator: Create instructional and review content for brands or your own channels.

• Technical Writer: Develop manuals, guides, and educational content about kiteboarding equipment.

As Reedin notes in their marketing specialist listing, they value individuals who can work in a "vibrant and creative work environment" translating technical knowledge into compelling content.

Transitioning to Marketing and Brand Management

Testing gives you product knowledge perfect for marketing roles:

• Brand Manager: Oversee marketing strategy for kiteboarding brands, using your product expertise to shape messaging.

• Marketing Specialist: Boards & More offers positions like "Performance Marketing Manager" with salaries of "€48,000-€60,000" that leverage product knowledge for effective marketing.

• Social Media Manager: Create and curate content showcasing product performance and features.

Your understanding of what makes equipment special positions you well for these roles. As one North Action Sports Group job listing notes, they value "working in a dynamic and quickly growing organization" where marketing professionals understand the products intimately.

Check out kitesurfing marketing and content positions if this path interests you.

Launching Consulting Services

Your testing expertise can become the foundation for a consulting business:

• Product Improvement Consultant: Help brands refine their products based on testing methodologies.

• Retail Strategy Advisor: Guide shops on product selection based on performance insights.

• Test Protocol Development: Create testing systems for brands or publications.

Consulting allows independence while capitalizing on your specialized knowledge. "Founding your own brand requires a unique combination of technical knowledge and business acumen," shared one former tester who successfully transitioned to consulting.

Training the Next Generation of Testers

Eventually, you can pass on your expertise:

• Testing Workshop Leader: Develop and lead workshops on equipment evaluation.

• Mentorship Programs: Create formal or informal mentorship for aspiring testers.

• Educational Content Creator: Produce courses teaching testing methodologies.

This transition allows you to scale your impact while potentially reducing the physical demands of constant testing. As the industry evolves, experienced testers who can train others become increasingly valuable.

Want to see where equipment testing might lead in the future? Check out the future of kitesurfing equipment testing for emerging trends and opportunities.

Ready to Start Your Kitesurfing Equipment Testing Journey?

Becoming a kitesurfing equipment tester combines passion with profession in a uniquely rewarding way. As we've explored, the path requires dedication to developing your riding skills, analytical abilities, and industry connections—but the rewards are substantial for those who persist.

Whether you choose the freelance route, brand ambassador track, or product development path, your love for kitesurfing becomes the foundation for a career that keeps you connected to the sport you love. From entry-level positions at €5,400 to senior roles commanding €60,000+, the financial possibilities grow with your experience and reputation.

Companies like Boards & More, North Action Sports Group, and CORE Kiteboarding are constantly seeking qualified testers who can provide the insights that drive innovation. As one Boards & More job listing puts it, they value those who contribute to a "dynamic and collaborative environment" where ideas become reality.

The industry centers around hubs in Germany, the Netherlands, and production facilities in Vietnam, offering diverse opportunities for those willing to go where the jobs are. Each location brings its own advantages and culture, from CORE's "Fehmarn lifestyle" to North's "international environment."

Ready to turn your passion for kitesurfing into a testing career? Browse available kitesurfing jobs and take your first step toward getting paid to ride the latest gear before anyone else. The wind is waiting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do you need to become a kitesurfing equipment tester?

You need advanced kitesurfing skills across multiple disciplines, analytical thinking abilities, and strong communication skills. While formal qualifications vary by company, most prefer 3-5 years of kitesurfing experience. Technical education in product design, materials science, or sports engineering can be advantageous for positions with major manufacturers like Boards & More or North Action Sports Group. Certifications as an instructor can add credibility, but practical experience and demonstrated analytical abilities are more important.

How much do kitesurfing equipment testers earn?

Earnings range widely based on position and experience. Entry-level trainees might earn €5,400 annually (€450/month for 40 hours as stated by North Action Sports Group), while mid-level product development roles including testing responsibilities range from €40,000-€60,000 annually at companies like Boards & More GmbH. Senior product managers can earn €48,000-€72,000. Freelance testers typically earn through a combination of per-review payments, affiliate commissions, and sponsored content, often supplementing with other industry work.

Is kitesurfing equipment testing a full-time job?

It can be, but pure testing roles are rare. Most full-time positions combine testing with other responsibilities like product development, marketing, or content creation. At companies like Boards & More, positions like "Product Manager:in Duotone Wing & Foiling" include testing as part of broader product oversight. Freelance testing is more common but typically requires multiple income streams to be sustainable. The seasonal nature of the industry also means workload and income can fluctuate throughout the year.

Which companies hire kitesurfing equipment testers?

Major employers include Boards & More GmbH (makers of Duotone, ION, and Fanatic) in Germany, North Action Sports Group in the Netherlands, CORE Kiteboarding in Germany, Ozone Kites (with production in Vietnam), and Reedin in the Netherlands. Smaller brands also hire testers, though often on a more informal or project basis. Media companies and kiteboarding publications regularly work with equipment reviewers as well, though these relationships are typically freelance.

How do I approach kiteboarding brands for testing opportunities?

Begin by building a professional portfolio of sample reviews using your own equipment. Develop an online presence that demonstrates your technical knowledge and communication skills. Start with smaller or newer brands that need exposure, offering detailed, objective evaluations. Attend industry events to make personal connections with brand representatives. When approaching larger companies like North or Duotone, be prepared to start in adjacent roles (internships, brand ambassador) before specializing in testing. Always demonstrate value before asking for opportunities.

Do I need to be a professional kitesurfer to become an equipment tester?

No, but you need to be highly skilled. Professional competition experience can help but isn't required. More important is your ability to detect subtle differences in equipment performance across various conditions and to communicate those observations clearly. As CORE Kiteboarding notes in their company culture, they value "individuals with very good knowledge in this field" regardless of competitive status. Advanced recreational riders with strong analytical skills and industry knowledge can excel as testers without pro competition credentials.

What should I include in my kitesurfing equipment testing portfolio?

Your portfolio should include detailed reviews of equipment you've used, highlighting your testing methodology, observations, and conclusions. Include documentation of testing in different conditions, comparative analyses between similar products, and durability assessments. Incorporate high-quality photos and videos that demonstrate both the equipment and your riding abilities. Show your communication skills through well-written reports and engaging content. If possible, include testimonials from brands or publications you've worked with, even in informal capacities.

How can I start reviewing kitesurfing gear professionally?

Begin by creating your own platform (blog, YouTube channel, or Instagram) with consistent, high-quality reviews of your personal equipment. Focus on developing a unique, detailed testing approach that provides real value beyond basic impressions. Network with smaller brands and local shops to access demo equipment. Attend industry events to build connections. Consider writing guest reviews for established websites to build credibility. Approach media outlets about freelance review opportunities. As your audience grows, brands will increasingly see value in having you test their products.

What's the difference between a brand ambassador and an equipment tester?

A brand ambassador primarily promotes products and represents the brand at events, while an equipment tester critically evaluates products and provides technical feedback for improvement. Ambassadors focus on positive messaging and visibility, while testers must identify strengths and weaknesses objectively. Many careers start with ambassador roles before evolving into testing positions as trust develops. The roles often overlap, with some positions combining promotional activities with technical feedback, particularly at smaller brands with limited staff.

Where are the best places to work as a kitesurfing equipment tester?

The best locations align with industry hubs: Germany (particularly around Oberhaching for Boards & More and Fehmarn for CORE Kiteboarding), the Netherlands (Katwijk for North Action Sports Group and Harderwijk for Reedin), and Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City for Ozone Kites production). These centers offer the highest concentration of formal positions. For freelance testers, locations with consistent wind conditions and diverse terrain (flat water, waves) provide testing versatility. Proximity to industry events and trade shows can also be advantageous for networking and staying current with innovations.