Wakeboard Size Chart & Buyer's Guide
It can be pretty intimidating looking for a wakeboard. “What size is right for me? “Can this wakeboard support my abilities?” “Do they have it in red?” Looking for a wakeboard doesn’t have to be a daunting task; We will walk you through some of the most important features of wakeboards and various other things that you should consider when buying a new wakeboard, whether it is be for you, or a gift for a friend or grom.
Wakeboard Length
The size of a wakeboard you ride factors onto your weight and riding style. Every specific wakeboard has specific sizing guidelines for the riders weight. Having a single wakeboard doesn’t mean its for that single specific rider, if your choosing a wakeboard for multiple people, it’s best to choose a wakeboard based on the rider who rides the most or the heaviest rider. Now, there is a range in the length of a wakeboard you can ride. We will go onto why you may want a longer board, or a shorter board below.
Shorter Wakeboards
Some wakeboards will prefer to ride a wakeboard that’s a tad shorter than the suggested size range. The feeling you get from a shorter wakeboard however, depends on the boards shape, however, shorter the board, the slower you will go and it will take more energy as you ride through the water. Where as the more surface area you have on the board, the faster you’ll move across the water. Though if you are looking to spin easier and do more flips, a shorter board will make it more doable. However, the decreased surface area will make your landings harder, leaving the possibility for the nose to dig in the water, which could leave you in the water too.
Longer Wakeboards
Longer wakeboards are typically easier to ride and learn on. Longer wakeboards are going to be heavier, which means you are going to work harder against the weight of the air, but this also means you get more control which will make it easier to learn tricks. Because a longer wakeboard has more surface area, the board will sit on top of the water and move quickly though it as well. You will also have more softer landings as well.
Ability Level
Now, there are a range of different wakeboard shapes that are available to suit every ability level out there. Generally, anyone can ride any shape of wakeboard they wish, as long as it is large enough. Some shapes will make it easier to earn, but a “beginner” shouldn’t be afraid of a “advanced” board shape. Same goes to a “advanced” shying away from a beginner shape. Choosing a shape all comes down to your personal preference and should be a fun experience!
Beginner – Intermediate
If you have never ridden a wakeboard before, or if you are starting to venture across the wake; Check out the beginner / intermediate wakeboards. These wakeboards you will generally find to have a continuous or mellow 3-stage rockers.
Intermediate – Advanced
If your crossing over the wake with ease, we would recommend taking a look at a intermediate / advanced wakeboard. Now, there’s a large variety in this category, but that doesn’t mean your decision will be a tough on. Below we will talk about what features will compliment your riding style before you decide on a wakeboard.
Advanced – Expert
If you’re at the stage to where you know how to spin, attempting tricks, or taking that perfect selfie, you may want to look at some advanced / expert wakeboards. These boards will have more of an aggressive continuous or 3-stage rockers and are much less forgiving. These kinds of wakeboards are often seen as pro models. Bottom line is that these wakeboards are going to be much more aggressive.
Wakeboard Rocker and Riding Style
3-Stage Rocker
A wakeboard with a 3-stage rocker will feature three distinct planes on the bottom of the board (hence the name). This style of board is going to give you much more pop (height) when you hit that wake. However, having more rocker is not always for the better. With a more dramatic rocker a wakeboard has a looser or slippery feel on the waters surface. This can also cause the board to slug through the water, rather than cutting through it, making it slower. The fins will become less effective and you will find yourself relying more on edging the wakeboard. Boards with a 3-Stage rocker have a flat spot which will make landings have more intense impact.
Hybrid Rocker
Hybrid Rocker Wakeboard exist between the planes of a continuous rocker and a 3-stage rocker. Each style of Hybrid is a little bit different from another hybrid wakeboard. It all comes down to what feels nature with this style.
So remember, there's a lot of different variables out there that can determine what kind of wakeboard you choose, but that shouldn't be a reason not to get out there and absolutely shred it out on the water! Whether you are starting out new, or continuing your adventure on the water, there’s always that perfect wakeboard for you! If you ever have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 704-799-1994.
