Some novices get frustrated and quit simply because the inexpensive kite they are using is so difficult to work with, he said. Line is another expense of the hobby. At some point you stop calling it string. The line is of a low-stretch material similar to what bullet proof vests are made from. It is prized not only because it has little stretch, but also because crossed lines tend to slip easily over one another without becoming tangled and hung up, Broder said.
Stunt kites typically have two lines.
The flier uses a handle at the end of the line to hold one in each hand. Other specialized kite competitions call for single line kites, but those are usually tests of kite construction and beauty, Broder said. It's not a strength sport, so much as one of finesse, Broder said. He's surprised the sport is dominated by men, when women can compete just as easily and perhaps better. Competitions take place at locations across the nation and all across the world.