How to Choose a Wakeboard for Beginners

Wakeboarding is a 30-year-old water sport with roots in water skiing, surfing — and snowboarding. Riding the surface of the water and performing wakeboarding tricks behind a boat is an addictive sport.

And while there are tons of different kinds of wakeboards for different kinds of riding, determining which wakeboard is for you can be a challenge. Getting the right board for your ability level and style of riding is important.  

If you are buying as a beginner, there are a few things you need to know before buying a wakeboard.

Choosing the Right Wakeboard Length

When choosing the length of a wakeboard, it’s important to choose according to your style of riding and more importantly — one that will float effectively by carrying your weight. 

When purchasing a wakeboard, check the specific sizing recommendations provided by the manufacturer. You want to choose one that is long enough to float sufficiently. Keep in mind — longer wakeboards are heavier which means you work harder against the weight in the air, but you also gain more control.

Choosing a Wakeboard by Ability Level

Did you know wakeboards come in a variety of shapes? Some shapes are more appropriate for riders of certain ability levels than are other shapes. In general, anyone can ride any shape wakeboard if it is large enough. The most important factor is selecting the right size. 

Wakeboard Rocker and Riding Style

Different wakeboards have different rocking styles — that suit different riding styles. Rocking refers to the weight transfer from one part of the board to another part as it hits water at unique angles. There are three different types of rockers.

• Continuous Rocker
  Continuous rockers are great for carving on calm-wave ocean days. The shape of the rocker is smooth, curved, and continuous, providing the board with its great speed. 
• 3-Stage Rocker
  3-stage rockers are slower and bulkier through the water. They are shaped into three different angled surfaces that generate greater height off of the wake, but land harder.
• Camber
  With a gliding, lightweight feel, a camber rocker has two surface points on the ends of the board that are separated by an arch in the middle. This type of rocker provides the rider with a great deal of stability, control, and height off the wake. 

Hop on and go ham! You were born to wakeboard. Wake life. Go Fast Girls.