Wakeboarding, like anything else, requires equipment that is right for you. Making sure you have the correct gear will make your experience more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Here are some tips to follow when picking out a wakeboard.
Pick the correct size. Wider and longer boards will land softer on the water since they offer more surface area to absorb the contact shock. They are best for heavier or taller riders. The larger the board the heavier it is so they do not flip or spin as fast as a smaller board. Generally, people follow this rule: someone six feet and over should ride a wakeboard between 138cm – 142cm. Five feet tall riders should ride a wakeboard 128cm – 134cm.
Pick equipment that fits your experience level. O’Brien, Hyperlite, and HO Sports make gear for beginner, intermediate, and experienced riders. Beginner boards have more squared edges, which offer more control and steadiness for those not ready for tricks. Riders with more experience favor wakeboards that have rounded edges since air tricks are easier to land. Rounded edges also allow the board to gain speed faster and prevent the edge of the water from catching while landing tricks.
Pay attention to the details. You may want a board that is faster and more consistent on the water, which helps land jumps easier, such as a continuous rocker. These boards have an even curve from tip to tail. On the other hand, you might be looking for a board to provide forceful lift off the wake and more control while going straight, such as a three-stage rocker, which have two distinct bends in the board. Also, keep in mind the difference in fins under your wakeboard. Fins assist your board with direction, so it does not rotate freely on the water.
Try out different boards before you buy to see what fits you best. Most pro shops will permit you to try a board for a fee; however, many shops will eliminate the cost of the fee if you end up buying the board from them.
At Lighthouse Harbor Marina, our Ships' Store has a variety of wakeboards available to pick from. Check us out online at OnlineWakeboards.com or stop in today to see if we have the wakeboard you are looking for.
