The extreme winter survival guide

Men's Fitness, Feb, 2004 by Greg Melville

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Key West, Florida One of the best schools in the country is operated by Kite Surf the Earth (888-819-5483, kste.net) in Key West, where the winds are a steady 10-15 miles per hour during the winter, the water is always warm, and the nightlife is a bit touristy but always hopping. The five-day program is $840, including equipment.

San Diego, California The sandy beaches lining the protected inlets of the San Diego area make for popular-but not overcrowded--jumping-off points for Southern Californian kiteboarders. West Coast Kiteboarding (866-994-5483, westcoastkiteboarding.com) offers a one-day intensive New Rider program. The cool water means you'll have to wear a wet suit, though.

What You Need

Helmet Vented and tough. Burton Remix, $129, burton.com

Snowshoes Metal teeth and blades. Denali Evo Ascent, $199, msrgear.com

Bike Superior suspension. Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, $1,470, specialized.com

GPS Pinpoints the world. Garmin Forerunner 201, $160, garmin.com

Board Lightweight. Cabrinha Icon, $599, cabrinhakites.com