Kitesurfing at Lake Silvaplana: the Maloja Wind and the Right Gear

Lake Silvaplana in the Upper Engadine is one of the most legendary wind spots in the Alps. At 1,800 m, the Maloja wind delivers near-daily sessions in summer. Here is how the wind works and which gear makes sense on this mountain lake.

The Maloja wind: the Engadine’s thermal miracle

The Maloja wind is a thermal south-westerly that builds on sunny summer days over the Maloja pass. It usually starts around noon and freshens in the afternoon to 4–6 Beaufort – reliable enough to make the Engadine a windsurf and kite mecca.

Kitesurfing at Lake Silvaplana: good to know

The lake is heavily used – windsurfers, kiters, sailors and foilers share the water. Check the currently designated kite zones, launch areas and local rules before you rig.

Altitude and water: choosing your gear

At 1,800 m the air is thinner and the kite pulls slightly less: plan for one size up compared with the sea. The meltwater is cold: a 4/3 mm wetsuit, often with hood and boots, is recommended. A twintip with good early planing or a kitefoil for light wind are ideal.

Best season

The most reliable period is high summer (June to September), when the thermals work hardest. Early mornings are often calm – the session starts after midday.

Your gear at Elevatesurf

At Elevatesurf you will find kites, boards and foils from F-One, Core, Eleveight and Slingshot, plus the right neoprene for cold mountain lakes. Free shipping across Switzerland. Discover kitesurf gear.