Kites

flying · wind · crafts · fun outdoors

Wings catch wind. Kites have special wing surfaces that create lift and drag forces when the wind pushes against them. This pushes the kite up into the air, just like how planes fly, except kites are held up by a string instead of an engine.

String holds steady. Kites stay in place with a tether (a string) attached to the ground or to your hand. This string connection lets you control the kite and keep it from flying away.

Popular shapes. Some of the coolest kite designs include delta kites (shaped like triangles) and diamond kites (shaped like diamonds). Box kites are special because they only need one string attachment point instead of multiple strings.

Named after birds. The word 'kite' comes from a hovering bird of prey with the same name. People thought flying a kite was like watching that graceful bird soar through the sky.

Tail keeps balance. Many kites have a tail and bridle (special strings) that help guide the kite's face toward the wind. This keeps the kite steady and helps it fly smoothly.