The Best Reasons You Should Try Wakeboarding This Summer

As the name suggests, wakeboarding consists of riding short-form boards that utilize the waves of a speedboat to gain speed and perform some cool tricks. Whoever is riding is strapped into the board with boots that are much like snowboarding bindings. 

The most common origins of wakeboarding come from Australia and Florida in the 1980s. Two different people were coming up with ideas to create mini boards that could trail behind a boat, ionically these two individuals became prominent in the wakeboarding scene with their own respective companies.

Eventually, wakeboarding got some more momentum and effectively was added as a competitive sport in the X-Games and even has its association found in the World Wakeboard Association (WWA).

One of the best things you can do to learn about everything you need to get into wakeboarding is to go down to your local shop and talk to the people who know what they’re doing. Aside from that, this article should give you a clear idea of what you need.  

Here is a breakdown of all the equipment you’ll need to get into the world of wakeboarding: 

Find yourself a suitable board 

You’d be surprised at how accessible wakeboarding has become with a large market for both beginners and experts alike. If you are just starting, then a double-ended board with fins and a rocker will give you more stability. Hyperlite is a great brand that features quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. 

You’ll need a boat

You can’t wakeboard effectively without the right speed and that all depends on the boat you’re using. Specifically, you’ll want to invest in a wake surfing that is properly outfitted and has the speed you need to keep on the board. Popular wake surfing boat brands include Bayliner and Axis Boats. 

Wakeboard bindings are important too

If you want to stay on your wakeboard you’re going to need some decent bindings. They come in three styles: velcro for beginners, adjustable boots, and high-back boot bindings. The best middle ground would be the adjustable boot bindings as they provide good support for general use. High-back boot bindings are the best for doing tricks as they provide you with complete control over how the board reacts. 

Choose your rope wisely

Length does matter when it comes to choosing a rope for wakeboarding. A shorter rope will give you much more control and balance than a longer one. As a beginner, you will want to avoid ropes that are stretchy as some more advanced technique is required to keep your balance.

Don’t forget safety equipment and a wetsuit

Wetsuits provide extra insulation and protection from accidental falling. Depending on the time of year the water can be colder than you’d like and there’s nothing worse than falling into cold water and shivering. 

Sometimes water can hurt and having it happen on bare skin is never a nice feeling. Use the wetsuit to blunt any kind of pain from hitting the water at high speeds.     

Taking a buoyancy aid or even a life jacket is critical for a safe adventure. They may be uncomfortable at times but that’s better than the alternative. 

While there are many summer activities to partake in there is none quite like wakeboarding. Here are some of the reasons why this unique sport might be your next favorite activity.

• Great exercise - Since there is a lot of balance involved you’re going to get a great workout for your core muscles. If you become a stunt enthusiast expect even more out of wakeboarding as it’ll then become more than just a full-body workout.
• Improves mental acuity - Reaction timing, reflex decision making, and adrenaline improving your focus are all positive results that can be transferred into your daily life. 
• You learn how to swim - Odds are you’re going to end up in the drink more than a few times as you start your wakeboarding journey. Be smart with your safety gear and you’ll be doggy paddling in no time. 
• Increased balance - Balancing is what keeps you on your board as you rip down a lake at high speeds. As you go wakeboarding more the muscle memory will improve your balance.

There are a myriad of additional reasons why you should try wakeboarding but these alone already cater to a wide audience. If you’re convinced to start wakeboarding at this point keep reading for a suggestion on where to begin.

Researching your products is always encouraged as you learn about the purchasing process from start to finish. 

Hyperlite is a company that has been around since 1991 and has all the equipment you’ll need to get started. The 2022 Motive Wakeboard w/Frequency Boot has all the necessities a beginner needs. 

It has a continuous rocker, a V bottom, and four fins for incredible tracking. The binding process for the top and bottom layer glass makes the board durable which means it’ll last until you want to get the newest equipment.    

Hyperlite’s frequency boots are universal in size and generally fit well in most sizes. They are an open-toed design and are easy to get in and out of. 

If you’re looking for a wakeboard and boot combo package then this will fit all of your high-speed needs while still giving you the control you want.