Kite boarding or Para Gliding ?

[Sticklebrick]

Could someone with a little practical knowledge of both of these sports give me an idea of which is easier to get into in in the UK, what the costs are and what i need ( basic kit ) to get going on each. costs etc.

Thanks

Sticklebrick

[samuel23]

Don't know about para Gliding (thought that was done on the water being towed by a boat?) However, I have a kite that I go boarding with. I started off using some in-line skates that I already had and progressed to a board after I had spent time getting used to the kite and practicing. The kites vary in style, quality, size and price (mine was a beginners one and it was just over �50) but they go up to nearly �300 in our local shop. The skates were old and were a gift so I don't know how much they were originally, but there are some good ones on ebay for about �30. My board was �75, but I have seen some for about �30 and they go all the way up to nearly �600.
Start with the cheaper ones and if you like it you can always trade up later and sell the starter stuff on ebay or in the local free ads.

[samuel23]

forgot to mention ~ you might get some grief if you aren't careful. I was told off by the police for kite boarding along the local prom (it was a windy day and there was hardly anyone around, but someone complained). the park is a good place if the local by-laws don't prevent it.