If you’re interested in trying out a new water sport this summer, wakeboarding may be the perfect choice for you! Wakeboarding is a great way to get some adrenaline-pumping fun while enjoying the outdoors. However, like any sport, there are a few basic things that you need to know before you hit the water.
In this blog post, we will provide an overview of wakeboarding for beginners. We’ll discuss the basics of how to get on the board and stay on it, as well as how to start riding. So if you’re ready to take on this challenging but rewarding sport, keep reading!
Choose The Right Boat For Wakeboarding
Did you know some boats are made for wakeboarding? A good boat for wakeboarding will be less than 30 ft. long with enough speed to pull you out of the water. It should have a tower with a high tow point to attach the rope to. The tower pulls the rope upward instead of just forward. You can technically wakeboard using a boat that has a tower, but it’s a lot more difficult to stand upright on the board.
Axis is one of the top wakeboarding boat producers in the world. To see a great example of one of the best wakeboarding boats, check out the Axis A24.
You also want a boat with speed control and an integrated balance for zipping around the lake. The ideal boat will have a nice wedge shape to create the perfect wakes and a hull design that cuts a crisp wave into the water.
What To Wear Wakeboarding
Your apparel is more important than you think when wakeboarding. A swimsuit or swim trunks is the most obvious, but there is a bit more to consider.
Remember you will be wearing a lifejacket, so opt for something that will not be uncomfortable in a life jacket. If you’ve never done anything like wakeboarding before a rash guard or wetsuit could help you be more comfortable. Beginners typically spend more time in the water learning how to get up and of course – a bit more falling. A wetsuit will help keep you warmer and motivated to get better.
The most important is the lifejacket. This keeps you safe and above the water if you end up getting injured, and helps your driver spot you. Ensure you have a life jacket that keeps you afloat, fits properly, and won’t be uncomfortable.
Choose The Correct Wakeboard
After you have the outfit figured out, putting together a board is next on your list. There are a few basic qualities that you look for in a wakeboard like comfort, stability, and durability.
As a beginner, you want to look for something that is predictable and gives you the most stability. This gives you a good platform to learn and grow until you are ready for more advanced boards. A longer wakeboard is typically easier for beginners.
The rocker is a key aspect as well, which is basically the shape and side-profile of the board. A smooth and uniform rocker gives beginners a smooth ride and can be much more predictable. Advanced wakeboarders may opt for a 3-stage rocker for tricks and popping off of waves.
Lastly is the top-down shape, in which different kinds allow for different riding. Beginner boards will allow for easier turns and better stability.
Start Wakeboarding With People You Trust
Like most activities, wakeboarding is even more fun with people you love. You’ll want an experienced driver behind the wheel of the boat. A great driver will have careful speed control and the ability to smoothly maneuver through the water. Additionally, you’ll want a spotter who will keep a diligent eye on you while you ride the wakes.
Be Confident Going In – Good Mindset!
If you’re getting into wakeboarding, the chances are high that you already know someone who enjoys the sport. Be sure to listen carefully to their advice and tips if you know they are experienced. If you are naturally athletic you might pick it up extremely quickly, or slowly. Every person is different and depending on your background in sports it could take time.
- You will get wet, take deep breaths, and don’t be scared of the water.
- Get ready to fall! Every single human who has ever tried wakeboarding has fallen down and taken tumbles. Accept it!
- Falling does not equal failure. It’s a natural part of the learning process – try to think about what you did wrong or why you fell. It helps improve on the next try.
- Trust the boat. Don’t worry about not having enough speed. Learn the basic hand signals of water sports!
- Focus on form over speed! It’s not a race. The correct form will help you progress faster and ride confidently. It’s easier to learn good habits than it is to unlearn bad habits later on.
How To Get Up On A Wakeboard
- Make the rope as short as possible
- Double-check that your equipment is setup properly
- Let your knees bend naturally on the board while lined up with the boat, and hold this crunched-up position
- As the boat begins to accelerate, slowly stand up
As a more in-depth explanation, start with a short rope connected to the tower. A short rope will pull you upright once you get situated in the water more effectively than a long rope. Make sure the rope is not wrapped around you at all.