Wakeboarding – Getting Started: Choosing a Wakeboard:

There are multiple things to consider when first learning to ride a wakeboard but one of the more obvious choices to be made is selecting which wakeboard is appropriate for you. If you are just starting out, the latest ‘pro model’ wakeboard is probably not the ideal way to go, and can actually hinder your learning. The higher end wakeboards tend to be less forgiving for beginners and are engineered specifically for riders at a higher skill level. Doing some research online can be a good source of unbiased info, and can give you a general idea about a lot of things before encountering the over-eager sales guy trying to sell you a wakeboard you may not want or need.

When selecting a wakeboard, resist the urge to pick a favorite based on what the board looks like. While having a snazzy looking wakeboard can be tempting, this really will have nothing to do with the way the wakeboard performs. I personally have owned some of the most hideous wakeboards ever only because they were best suited to my riding style and ability. The length of the board, however, is very important. A wakeboard is measured in centimeters, and typically runs in sizes between 124cm to 145cm. Generally, the larger the person – the larger the wakeboard needed. Ill use myself as an example: I am 6’ tall, 200 lbs. and ride a 141cm board. There is some flexibility here and can be experimented with based on personal preference. Larger wakeboards offer more stability, while shorter boards tend to be more maneuverable. That said, I could comfortably ride any length wakeboard ranging from a 137cm up to a 143cm. Because of the increased stability however, beginners often benefit from a slightly larger wakeboard within their range.

There are many variables that distinguish one wakeboard from the next. Fins, rocker, shape, bottom contours and edges are all things that will influence how a wakeboard rides. The most important thing to remember when choosing your first wakeboard is that there is NO substitution for physically riding the board for yourself. The shops in your area will most likely offer some type of demo program where you can try out a particular wakeboard for a day or two for a set fee. Most shops will credit your ‘rental fee’ toward the purchase of a wakeboard from their shop. Wakeboarding is an individual sport, and therefore different people will favor different board types based on what fits their riding style. Wakeboarding, generally speaking, can be relatively expensive and purchasing a wakeboard means forking over a pretty good chunk of change. The last thing you want is to be disappointed with your purchase because you did not experience it first hand before buying.

So in short – When purchasing a wakeboard:

1) A little research online before you step foot in a retail store will help enormously
2) Choose a wakeboard appropriate to your skill level and one that you feel comfortable with.
3) Do whatever you can to ‘test’ ride the wakeboard beforehand. Whether that means trying out a friend’s or doing a demo through a local shop.
4) Make your purchase with confidence and get out there and start wakeboarding!