I've had 2 sessions on the 17.5 now, one in about 12-15 knots and the second in 10-12 knots. This kite definitely surprised me with how much power it produces in such little wind, even in 10-12 knots I was riding upwind and able to do small 2/3 metre jumps and transitions and given that I am 90 kg and was riding a wake style board with bindings is pretty impressive, I was even able to land a few basic handle passes although it's not the best for unhooking with you can make it work. I definitely think with someone lighter and using a light wind board you would get going in sub 10 knot conditions.