Living Tiny, Dreaming Big: A Kiter’s Life in Amsterdam
By Wavers Ambassador Nektaria
Hey wavers!
🌊 Let’s talk about the real side of being a kitesurfer in a bustling city like Amsterdam. Picture this: you’re living in a studio or sharing an apartment, with a tiny room that’s barely big enough for your bed—let alone your kite gear. Yet somehow, we make it work. Kites, boards, wetsuits, and all the necessities of daily life crammed into what feels like a shoebox. And drying gear? That’s a whole other adventure. You’re left hanging wetsuits over chairs, draping kites in shared stairwells, and praying no one trips over your lines. Sand from the beach? Oh, it’s everywhere. In your shoes, your bed, and sometimes, even your fridge. But guess what? We’d do it all over again because our love for the ocean surpasses every mess, hassle, and lack of space.
And then there’s the mission to actually get to the water! Many of us don’t even own cars, so it’s a game of coordinating carpools, renting vehicles, and hauling gear across the city. Ever tried carrying a 12-meter kite and a board on a bike? Not for the faint of heart! Rental car schedules mean you’re constantly watching the clock—negotiating whether you stay on the water or rush back to drop off the car. But here’s where the magic lies: in the shared rides, the collective hustle, and the laughs over ridiculous packing situations. Struggles like these make the sessions even sweeter and create memories that stick with you long after you’ve packed up.
That’s exactly where Wavers Social Club comes in to save the day. This community was built to help kitesurfers like us overcome the challenges of living the urban kite life. Whether it’s finding carpool buddies, organizing gear storage, or teaming up for those cold, rainy, or sunny beach days, Wavers Social Club is here to connect you with like-minded kiters. Sharing the “struggles” makes them lighter—and honestly, way more fun. Plus, when the wind isn’t blowing, we keep the stoke alive with group activities like sauna sessions and yoga, giving us even more opportunities to bond and create long-lasting friendships.
Belonging to a community like Wavers Social Club isn’t just about making kiting easier; it’s about turning every experience— whether on the shore or in the water—into something meaningful and unforgettable. So, gear up, link up, and let’s make magic happen. After all, it’s the people you share the waves with that make this journey truly special. Kiting in the Netherlands, especially in winter, can be cold and challenging, but the rewards are unreal. It’s about breaking out of your comfort zone, pushing through the little obstacles, and realizing that the most beautiful experiences often come from the hardest-earned adventures.
Stay passionate, stay salty, and see you out there! 🏄♀️✨
Nektaria