How to Buy Wakeskating Equipment

The difficulty of wakeskating, like riding a rail on water, is what makes it appealing. You want to make sure you get the right stuff. Follow these simple steps to buying wakeskating equipment.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Get a wakeskate. Borrow and ride several different boards before purchasing your own to get the feel for your personal preference. Wood boards have a better feel. Composites are lighter. Foam tops are softer and more forgiving on scrapes for beginners, while grip tape tops have more grip. Flat shapes tend to be more stable. Concave shapes have greater maneuverability.

2. Get wakeshoes. Unless you don't mind that sloshing feel of a wet sponge, find self-draining quick drying wakeshoes. Like to go sockless? Find a pair designed with the tongue connected to lock in your foot. Another good choice is mesh. Don't be afraid that the mesh will tear during your gnarly tricks. Die hard wakeskaters will wear out the souls long before the mesh gives out.

3. Get a vest. Look for something lightweight with fluid mobility that allows you to contort as much as possible. A vest is worn like a jacket, snaps with buckles or zips up the front. Make sure it is Coast Guard approved, meaning it has been impact tested and provides the minimum standard of buoyancy.

4. Get a tow rope. Look for a line that is lightweight and has little or no stretch. A urethane or PVC type coating will make it harder to snag or tangle. Also look for one with 3 to 5 feet of take off extensions. Most pros ride at 70 to 75 feet behind the wake. The average wakeskater rides anywhere from 60 to 75 feet, depending on the boat's wake and where the sweet spot is.

5. Get a handle. Towing handles have come a long way. Soft and comfortable, most wakeskaters go without gloves. Grip the handle to find one that fits the natural shape of your hands. Look for features like extended sidewalls. Carbon handles are lightweight and strong.

6. Get a helmet. Though most wakeskaters go without a helmet, I'm a safety gal. Use a helmet that fits well. It should have vents, drain holes and water resistant fit pads. Look for one certified to CE EN 1077 standards.

7. The last thing you'll need is a whole lot of attitude. Wakeskating is not for the timid.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't afford wakeshoes yet, don't let that stop you. Drill holes in skate shoes so they can drain.
• The type of vest made for towing sports won't automatically position you face up if you lose consciousness. Never ride without a designated spotter looking out for you.

Resources

• Get purchasing tips from other riders at Wakeworld's message board.

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