Single-Line Kites by Purpose
Here are some examples of single line kites by purpose
Fighting Kites
Fighter kites are single-line maneuverable kites. Used for the sport of kite fighting, most fighter kites are small, unstable single line flat kites where line tension alone is used for control, traditionally an abrasive line (like Manja) is used to cut down other kites, but due to the dangers of cutting line, many countries have banned Manja line. They are using “line touch” rules for combat instead.
Kite fighting is a major sport in many countries but is particularly associated with Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Vietnam, Korea, and the slums of Brazil. Most cultural fighter kites are made with paper and wood, but modern materials like Orcon and carbon fiber have become very popular.
What is a Rokkaku kite?
Rokkaku is a Japanese word that means that this kite has six corners. The sizes of the kites vary, and they usually have a four-legged bridle. Rokkaku kites are bowed using two tension lines and are popular because they fly well without tails and provide a nice shape to carry artwork.
Rokkaku battles are a 400-year-old competition that originated in Japan and is very popular at kite festivals. In this event, combatants use six-sided kites that are up to eight feet tall. A dozen kites or more are launched simultaneously, and the kite or the kite line is used to cut opponents’ lines or force them to the ground. It’s fun, challenging, and a great spectator sport.
figure kites
The shapes of these kites represent persons, animals, or other objects. Examples of such representations include kites depicting birds, fish, serpents, and people.
The figure represented by the kite should be discernible to knowledgeable observers. Kites whose surfaces are decorated with pictures or representations of persons, animals, or other objects are not considered figure kites. Flat, bowed, and soft kites are common figure kites.
