Gear, Grit & Good Vibes: Windance Swap Meet Brings the Wind Sports Community Together

Nestled in the heart of Hood River, OR, Windance Boardshop recently hosted a swap meet that brought together the local kiteboarding, wing foiling, and windsurfing communities. As an ambassador for the shop, North Kiteboarding and Mystic Boarding, I had the privilege of participating in this dynamic event. The swap meet provided an excellent platform for enthusiasts to buy and sell used gear, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared passion for wind sports. Held on the Windance premises, the event also invited attendees to explore the latest offerings inside the store, making it a hub of activity for both seasoned riders and newcomers alike.

Vendor Spotlight

During the swap meet, I had the opportunity to assist Dane McCullough, the Western US demo manager for North Kiteboarding. Together, we showcased a range of used kites, boards, and Mystic apparel, engaging with potential customers and sharing our insights on the gear.

In addition to helping answer customer’s questions, I captured moments from the event through photography and drone footage to capture a unique aerial view. 

The presence of other top brands, such as Core, represented by pro rider and Eric Reinstra, added to the excitement and diversity of the offerings. Eric offered invaluable advice on kiteboarding techniques for learning new tricks on the water. Both Dane and Eric described upcoming technologies from their brands creating excitement for the future of wind sports.

Future Swap Meets

Preparing for a swap meet requires careful planning to ensure you attract buyers and make successful sales. Popular items include a quiver of 2-4 kites, typically with 2-3 meters of size separation, appealing to buyers looking for a collection. Lightly used gear, even if older, can be a great bargain for newcomers to the sport. Organize your setup neatly, displaying items clearly with visible price tags and condition labels. Understanding the details of your gear, such as the type of kite (hybrid, bow, C), the discipline it's used for (freestyle, big air, surf, foil), and release year, will help you answer buyer questions confidently. Ensure you have change for cash transactions as well as digital payment options like Venmo or PayPal can help attract more buyers. With these preparations, you'll be ready to connect with fellow enthusiasts and make some great deals.

Check out the 2025 SWAP MEET info here

FIRST SWAP MEET OF THE SEASON IS on MAY 18, 2025

Words and Photos: Jordan Hendricks