There are too many personal preferences involved, so I don't think you can clearly define the perfect kite. However, there are a few things that comes to mind when asked this questions. Here are a few words on the topic by fellow kite enthusiast Okke Duursma. The course is an intensive residential course, run over a weekend in the winter. The programme covers basic skills, precision figures, freestyle routines and ballet routines.
People seem to be waiting for some one to come in on a white charger to ride in and save the sport.
The real question is what are you doing about it. All day yesterday it was sunny and the wind was cranking. Unfortunately I was at work. As soon as I got off I raced down to the beach, set up, and waited for my newbie friend to show up so I could help him launch his new foil. Packing up the kites is another story.