WindyCity Kite Sports

WindyCity Kite Sports is a kiteboarding company based in the Chicago area, founded by "Kiteboard Mike" Szromba. It combines three divisions: retail (a physical store and an online shop), distribution and education. Its kiteboarding school follows the IKO (International Kiteboarding Organization) curriculum and describes itself as the only full-time IKO school in the Chicago area, with certified instructors trained for Great Lakes conditions.

Lessons run from beginner level (questionnaire, ground school and safety, kite control, body dragging, board water starts) to advanced coaching, with two-way radio communication between instructor and student. The school also teaches land kiting (landboard, buggy) and snowkiting, and the water season runs roughly from March to November. It also works with cities, park districts and rescue services (training for the Chicago Lifeguard Corps) and organises kiteboarding trips.

The shop sells and advises on brands such as Ozone, CrazyFly and Mystic (kites, boards, harnesses, wetsuits, repair parts) and also carries eFoil products: the company is an authorised Fliteboard reseller and service centre. It states that it operates in Chicago (Illinois), Miller Beach (Indiana) and Sheboygan (Wisconsin).

Lessons by appointment depending on wind forecasts: sign up through the lesson request form on the website or by phone. Water season roughly March to November; land kiting and snowkiting in winter.