| The
wakeboard you choose will most likely reflect your skill level
and the type/style of boarding you want to do. The different
features of the wakeboard determine how it will perform. Most
wakeboard manufacturers have printed information to help you
determine which board is right for you. But often it's just
a small description.
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Level of Ability / Riding Style
Beginners prefer a board with squared edges.
This allows more control and stability for someone who is
not ready for big air tricks. More advanced riders prefer
a board with rounded edges because air tricks are easier to
land. Rounded edges allow less of a chance of catching an
edge when landing. They also help the board gain faster speed
(allowing for nice lift off the wakes when jumping).
More On Level/Ability
Boards come in single and twin tipped. Single
tipped boards are pointed at one end and squared off at the
other. These boards are best for one directional riding. Twin
tipped boards are rounded at both ends, allowing for easy
transition with switching directions and landing tricks. The
majority of the boards manufactured today are twin tipped.
Width and Length / Rocker
The wakeboard length averages between 120-150
centimeters. Width is usually between 38-44 centimeters. Longer
boards are better for beginners and offer more stability when
starting and turning. If uncertain of who all may be riding
your wakeboard it is better to get a longer one because longer
boards can hold larger people, whereas shorter boards may
only be able to hold smaller/lighter riders.
More On Width and Length / Rocker
Rocker is how the board curves/angles at
its ends. A higher rocker is more rounded bottom and allows
easier landings with jumping. Lower rocker is a flatter bottom
and allows the rider to accelerate better and gain easier
control over the board. Gradual rocker curve is known as continuous
rocker. Progressive rockers have a gradual curve along the
center and then become more angled under the feet.
Fins
Fins are tracking and turning devices located
on the bottom of the wakeboard. Fins help steer the board.
In smooth water conditions smaller and thinner fins work well.
In rougher water conditions a larger, wider fin helps steer
the board when it bounces on the water. Wider fins displace
more water and create a suction effect with the board to the
water, which helps the board connect to the water.
Bindings/Boots
You want your wakeboard bindings to be snug
but not so tight that they are painful. If the boot is too
tight you run the risk of breaking an ankle, leg, or knee
because the board may not properly release from your foot
upon falling. Many bindings offer a lace up feature that allow
tightening of the boot once your feet are in the boot.
More On Bindings/Boots
Generally bindings are made of a heavy foam
material. Bindings generally have finger holes in the rear
that allow for easy foot entrance. Always wet your bindings
before entering them. If necessary use binding lubricant.
Try Before You Buy
The biggest piece of advice I can offer is
to demo a wakeboard before the purchase. No matter how much
research you've done it makes no difference if you are unhappy
with how the wakeboard works with your style and skill level.
Most pro shops will allow you to demo a board for a fee, however,
many shops will remove the cost of the fee in the event you
end up purchasing the board from them.
Wakeboarding
Information | Wakeboarding
Tips For An Easy Ride |
Great
Places To Wakeboard Around The World |
Before
You Buy A Wakeboard |
Before
You Buy Wakeboard Bindings |
Essential
Wakeboarding Equipment |
Wakeboarding
for Beginners | Wakeboards
For Thrill And Action |
