Choosing the right Wakeboard
If you’re a water sports enthusiast, then you should definitely try wakeboarding. There are so many different types of activities to try when you’re out on the water. While some prefer a more relaxing, low-key experience, others enjoy a more exhilarating experience that’ll give them an adrenaline rush. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Jet Ski of Miami can help you prepare for your next wakeboarding experience. Visit our dealership in Miami near Hialeah, Key Biscayne, Aventura, and Key Largo, Florida!
Wakeboard Basics
If you have no idea what we’re talking about, let’s cover the basics first. Wakeboarding is essentially the equivalent of snowboarding but on the water in the sense that you’re securely strapped to the board. With wakeboarding, though, you will be pulled along the water behind a boat. The origin of the name comes from the way wakeboarders use the boat’s wake to their advantage. Once you’ve learned the basics of wakeboarding, you can move on to more exciting things like attempting jump and tricks.
A key element to learning the basics involves choosing the right wakeboard. In order to do this, you need to fully understand the anatomy of a wakeboard. You’ll also need to be aware of the different types of wakeboards and what each has to offer.
Wakeboard Anatomy
Once you learn the anatomy of a wakeboard, you’ll be able to determine which features you need when you go to buy your first board. The features you choose for your board will depend on how you want it to perform and what you plan to do with it. There are three important parts that make up a wakeboard’s anatomy, which are the flex, rocker, and fins.
Ironically enough, the flex refers to the flexibility of the board. This part is a major factor because it directly affects the way the board skids across the water. Wakeboarders who are more experienced in the sport tend to choose stiffer boards for more intensity. Beginners should be careful with stiffer boards because they can be harder to maneuver, especially if you’re not familiar with wakeboarding just yet.
The next important element of the wakeboard is the rocker, which refers to the curve of the board. The higher the rocker is, the more stability you will have when performing jumps and lands. The lower the rocker is, the less drag it’ll give. Remember that not all wakeboards have a significant curve.
Lastly, you have the option of fins. In some cases, fins are additional pieces you can choose to add the board if you find them helpful when you’re out on the water. There are some boards that come with built-in fins, which are meant to assist with control. Control is a major concern for beginners, so they tend to choose a board with fins or add them to their board if they don’t already have them.
Different Types of Boards
While anatomy tends to be the same for the most part, there are still some major differences you’ll notice when you’re shopping for your first board. Boat boards are generally sturdy boards with less flex and they tend to come with built-in fins. These boards are perfect for riders who value total control when they’re being pulled at high speeds. On the flip side, there’s the Wake Park board. These boards aren’t built for high-speed pressure but they’re great for pulling off stunts and they’re easier to maneuver overall.
If you’re not sure which way to go, you might consider a Hybrid board. These boards combine flex and sturdiness to help you practice out different stunts while still having the ability to maintain control.
Testing out a few boards is the best way to figure out which one is right for you. You can always rent a couple different boards and try them out on the water to see what fits your style best. If you’re looking for a jet boat or want to check out our wakeboards, stop by Jet Ski of Miami near Hialeah, Key Biscayne, Aventura, and Key Largo, Florida!