Orienteering Control Kites, Flags & Training Markers
The orange and white control kite tells an orienteer that they have reached the point shown on the map. For organisers, however, not every flag has to do exactly the same job.
A full-size kite is the familiar choice for events and competitions. Smaller training versions can be useful for coaching exercises, practice courses and activities where compact kit is easier to carry and set out. Reflective options provide greater visibility when used in darkness or low light.
Our current selection includes standard orienteering control kites, training kites, mini markers and reflective designs.
Which Type Do You Need?
Think about when, where and why it will be used.
For a competition, visibility and a recognisable flag are important. For coaching and repeated training exercises, a smaller one may be sufficient and makes it easier to carry several into the terrain.
Night orienteering creates another requirement. Reflective material helps competitors locate the flag with a head torch once they have navigated into the control area.
If the controls need to remain outdoors rather than being collected after the session, look at Permanent Markers instead. To confirm visits without electronic timing, pair your kites with control cards and punches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an orienteering control kite?
It is the orange and white marker placed at an orienteering control point. It identifies the location that corresponds with the competitor’s map and control description.
What are small training kites used for?
They are useful for coaching, practice courses and navigation exercises. Their compact size makes it easier for a coach or organiser to carry several when setting out a session. For club-sized quantities, see bulk order bundles.
When is a reflective marker useful?
It is particularly useful for night orienteering and low-light training because the reflective area becomes easier to identify when illuminated by a head torch.