A power kite is a large kite designed to provide significant pull. They come in 2 main forms: foils and leading edge inflatables There are also rigid-framed kites and soft single skin kites. There are several different control systems used with these kites which have 3-5 lines and a bar or handles.

Power kites are generally used in conjunction with a vehicle, such as in kite surfing (on a surfboard), kite buggying (on a purpose-built 3-wheeled cart), kite skating (on a skateboard or roller skates), or even kite skiing (on, of course, skis), plus KiteATB (on a ATB/Mountainboard/Landboard). Also somewhat popular is kite jumping, using a power kite to pull the jumper tens of feet above the ground in a controlled leap.

Kites of related design are used for sailing, including speed sailing. The world record in the early 80's was reportedly held by a kite-powered boat.

Powerkites can be dangerous. People can easily be carried off, and dashed against water, buildings, terrain and power lines. Stationary vertical objects are the most dangerous. Even in water, a helmet is recommended when flying a power kite, because a gust can lift one very quickly, to great heights. On land, serious power kiters use a full set of pads as well.