How Kite Stop Is Different

Kite Stop isn’t a typical kite shop. It’s a curated space built from decades of experience, a lifetime of flying, and a real love for the artistry and history of kites.

Most online stores sell whatever is new, trending, or easy to source. Kite Stop focuses on something entirely different: preserving and sharing the classic designs, rare models, and vintage gear that shaped the sport.

Here’s what sets us apart.

A Curated Collection, Not a Warehouse

Every item in the shop is hand-selected, inspected, and photographed. I personally evaluate each kite for condition, completeness, and historical significance before it ever appears on the site.

You won’t find generic stock photos or bulk listings. You’ll see real images of real kites with accurate descriptions you can trust.

New Old Stock From the Original Kite Stop

I’ve been holding onto a large inventory of new old stock from the original Kite Stop retail store. These kites were never flown, never sold off, and have been stored carefully for years. They’re the kinds of finds you only come across once.

When they’re gone… they’re gone.

Access to Rare and Vintage Collections

Over the years I’ve been entrusted with kites from private collections, estates, long-time flyers, and families who want their kites to continue their story. Some of these items are decades old, limited-production, handmade, or historically important.

Kite Stop gives these kites a new home and connects them with flyers and collectors who appreciate them.

Clear Distinction Between Resale and Donation-Based Items

Kite Stop offers two kinds of collections:

Curated Resale Inventory
Kites that I’ve purchased or acquired specifically for collectors and enthusiasts.

AKA Benefit Collection
Kites donated with the purpose of having their proceeds support the American Kitefliers Association. These listings are clearly marked so you know exactly where your purchase goes.

This transparency matters, and it’s at the core of how Kite Stop operates.

Backed by Real Experience

I’ve spent more than twenty years flying kites professionally at places like SeaWorld, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and major festivals around the world including Dieppe, Berck-sur-Mer, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. I’ve served as Past President of the American Kitefliers Association and currently serve as the First Vice President.

Kiting isn’t a hobby for me — it’s my life’s work. You’re buying from someone who knows these kites, flies them, values them, and understands what makes a good one.

A Store With a Purpose

Kite Stop isn’t just a way to sell kites. It’s a way to preserve the history of the sport, support the kite community, and keep great designs flying instead of sitting in closets.

Whether you’re a collector, a pilot, or someone rediscovering a childhood passion, you’ll find something here that you won’t find anywhere else.

Personal, Honest, and Human

There’s no big company behind this site. It’s just me, my family, and a genuine love of kites. If you message Kite Stop, I’m the one replying. If you buy something, I’m the one who packed it. If you have a question, I care about giving you the right answer.

This store is built on trust, relationships, and a real desire to share good kites with good people.