If you’re looking to buy a wakeboard, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. With a wide variety of options available in the market, picking what’s best for you can be a daunting task. You might ask yourself questions such as “What size do I need?”, “What kind of rocker pattern is best?”, or “What flex should I go for?” In this article, we’ll provide some tips and advice to help you make an informed decision in selecting the best wakeboard for your skill level, style of riding, and body type.
Skill Level
Before anything else, it’s important to take stock of your skill level when selecting a board. Wakeboards typically fall into three skill-level categories: beginner, intermediate, and advanced/expert. Beginner boards are designed to provide support and stability for people starting in the sport, with larger widths, narrower tip, and tails designed to help riders ride more smoothly. Meanwhile, an intermediate board can help riders progress, providing better control and features that help boarders attempt tricks such as 180’s or ollies. Lastly, an advanced or expert board is designed for more experienced riders to execute complicated tricks with more pop and response.
Style of Riding
As part of the selection process, you need to take into consideration the style of riding that you’ll be doing. The three main styles of wakeboarding are boat riding, cable riding, and surfing. A board specifically made for cable riding has a durable base and more flex, to survive the impacts on the obstacles like ramps and rails. For boat riding, a board should provide better speed, acceleration, and pop, so it often has more rocker and stiffer construction. Lastly, a surf-style board is a good option for riders who want to ride the boat’s wake using a rope, often blending surfing and wakeboarding.
Body Type
The size and shape of a wakeboard should also match your body type to maximize its performance. It’s essential to check the board’s weight range, which is usually indicated on the width of the board or product description. Opt for a board that is about the recommended capacity for your weight, so that the board is not too buoyant or heavy. Additionally, take note of the board’s length, which is typically based on a rider’s height, and it also helps to observe its shape, to ensure that it can provide the support needed where necessary. A beginner or a heavier rider may benefit from a wider board, while a taller, more advanced rider may opt for a longer board.
To sum it up, choosing the right wakeboard depends on various factors such as personal experience, riding style, and body type. Take the time to research and try out different boards to ensure that you get the right one that matches not only your skill level but also the style of riding you love. Ultimately, choosing the right board can make all the difference in how you experience wakeboarding as a sport.