What Is a Wakeboard?

Wakeboards are specially designed boards used in wakeboarding. They are typically made from fiberglass wrapped around a core that can be wooden, foam, or aluminum. Additionally, wakeboards come in various designs, shapes, and lengths to suit different riding styles and types of wakeboarding.

Although wakeboards share some similarities with kiteboards, you should not use a kiteboard for wakeboarding. The primary difference between the two boards is the rocker line. Wakeboards have significantly more rocker, making it easier to perform tricks like ollies, whereas kiteboards’ flatter profile makes them better for floating on water. Another distinction is that wakeboards are ridden with boot-style bindings, while kiteboards, except for wakestyle kiteboards, use either straps or a strapless setup.

Characteristics of a Wakeboard

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

Wakeboards have pronounced rockers and often come with either a continuous rocker, 3-stage rocker, or hybrid rocker. Some newer models are designed with a camber rocker similar to skis.

Regarding their base shapes, featureless wakeboards lack permanent fins or channels at the bottom. Some boards include channels or V-spines to help direct water flow and soften landings. Wakeboards designed for wake parks usually have a sintered base for added strength and durability.

How Do I Choose a Wakeboard?

Choosing the right size wakeboard involves considering practical factors and your intended use for the board. Generally, the heavier you are, the longer your wakeboard should be. This ensures even weight distribution and better flotation. If you weigh under 150 lbs (68 kg), choose a board around 137 cm or smaller. If you weigh over this, opt for a size of 138 cm or more. Larger boards offer increased stability on the water and make big tricks like flips easier, but spins become slower and more challenging. Therefore, beginners are advised to select a slightly larger board.

Another factor is the style of wakeboarding you plan to do. For cable park riding, a board with a wooden core is preferable, while boards for boats typically feature a polyurethane core construction.

You can find more information on choosing the right wakeboard from our Buying a Wakeboard Guide.