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In wakeboarding, the rider uses a wakeboard to be towed behind a boat or cable ski installation. Similar to snowboarding or surfing, the rider stands on the board and controls it with their feet. It can be a thrilling and challenging sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

A Brief History Of Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding's origins were in the 80’s and are described in various stories. A California surfer named Darby, who visited New Zealand and Australia is described in one of them. He used boards shaped like hands that were dragged behind boats.

When he returned home to San Diego, Darby's business partner Tony Finn helped him build these "surfboards." Together they teamed up with a sports company and designed a more buoyant board called the Hyperlite.

At the same time, Australian surfers Bruce McKee and Mitchel Ross produced and designed wakeboards of their own. Their boards were used because of the innovative foot strap technology and because they received a grant to refine maneuverability.

Professional wakeboard competitions began as early as the mid-1980s, when the sport became increasingly popular. Today, people of all ages enjoy wakeboarding, all over the world.

Who Can Wakeboard?

People of all ages can learn to wakeboard! It is a relatively easy sport to learn with a little practice.

Wakeboarding Vs Surfing

Surfing requires waves to be able to ride, while wakeboarding does not. This makes it an excellent sport for people living in areas with bodies of water, but no waves. Wakeboards are a lot smaller and lighter than surfboards, which allows you to be more agile on the board.

Wakeboarding Equipment

You don’t need a ton of equipment to go wakeboarding, just the board, bindings for your feet, a tow rope, and some water. Although not required, it’s smart to wear a life jacket and helmet too. If you’ve never tried the sport before, there are plenty of qualified instructors willing to give a lesson. That way you have someone to demonstrate the proper techniques and safety tips. If you don’t want to buy your own board, there are plenty of places to rent equipment, or consider borrowing from a friend.

Beginner Vs Advanced Wakeboards

Depending on your skill level can help you determine what kind of wakeboard to get. Beginner style boards are typically shorter and broader, which makes them easier for a novice to control. The more advanced boards are narrower and longer, ideal for doing tricks. There are also styles of wakeboards explicitly designed for freestyle riding, slalom racing, and wakeskating.

How To Choose Your Binding?

Bindings attach your feet to the wakeboard. Choose which style of binding you want based on your skill level, foot size, and personal taste. Beginner bindings are softer than the advanced bindings, allowing them to be taken on and off easily. The advanced bindings are generally stiffer, giving the rider more control..

When To Go wakeboarding?

The best time to go wakeboarding is when it’s nice and warm out in the summer! If you are lucky enough to live in an area with cool summers or warm winters, you may be able to go wakeboarding year-round.