Wakeboards

What Is a Wakeboard?

Wakeboards are specialised types of boards utilised in wakeboarding. They are frequently made from fibreglass, which encases a wooden, foam, or aluminium core. Additionally, wakeboards are available in various designs, shapes, and lengths to suit different riding styles and types of wakeboarding.

Although wakeboards share some aspects with kiteboards, a kiteboard should not be used for wakeboarding. The primary distinction between these boards lies in the rocker line. Wakeboards feature significantly more rocker, facilitating tricks like ollies, while kiteboards’ flatter shape is ideal for gliding on the water. Another difference is that wakeboards utilise boot-style bindings. In contrast, kiteboards, except for wakestyle kiteboards, employ either straps or a strapless setup.

Features of a Wakeboard

The key features of wakeboards include their length, rocker, and base. Wakeboards vary in length, typically ranging from 130 cm to 150 cm. The appropriate length should be determined based on the rider’s weight and riding style.

Wakeboards have distinctly marked rockers and usually feature a continuous rocker, 3-stage rocker, or hybrid rocker. However, some contemporary models are crafted with a camber rocker akin to skis.

Regarding base shapes, featureless wakeboards lack fixed fins or channels on the underside. Some boards are equipped with channels or V-spines to guide water flow and soften landings. Wakeboards designed for wake parks are usually constructed with a sintered base for enhanced strength and durability.

How Do I Select a Wakeboard?

Selecting the correct size wakeboard depends on several practical considerations as well as your intended use. A common guideline is that the heavier your weight, the longer your wakeboard should be to ensure even weight distribution and proper buoyancy. If your weight is under 150lbs (68 kg), choose a board around 137 cm or smaller. If your weight exceeds this, opt for a board of 138 cm or larger. Generally, a larger board offers greater stability on the water, making large tricks like Flips easier, though spins become slower and more challenging. We recommend beginners use a slightly larger board.

Another factor is the style of wakeboarding you wish to pursue. For cable park riding, a board with a wooden core is preferable, while boards for use with boats will have a polyurethane core construction.

To learn more about selecting the right wakeboard, see our Buying a Wakeboard Guide.