How to Do a Dock Start With a Wakeboard

Starting off the dock on to a wakeboard can be challenging at first, but after some experience it is an effortless way to get up on the wakeboard. A skilled driver and clear communication between the wakeboarder and the driver is essential for a successful start.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Wakeboard
• Ski rope
• Boat capable of pulling a wakeboarder
• Ski gloves (optional)
• Coast guard approved ski vest

1. Choose a dock that is in at least three feet of water and clear of obstructions. Make sure there are no nails or wood splinters on the dock.
2. Put on a Coast Guard approved ski vest. Sit down at the end of the dock, and strap both feet into the wakeboard.
3. Place the wakeboard into the water with the tip up and the fin (if you are using one) on the bottom. If your wakeboard cannot reach the water, make sure that you can safely land on the water once the boat begins moving. The greater the distance between the dock and the water--the harder it will be to accomplish a successful start.
4. Grasp the handle of the ski rope when it is tossed from the boat. Signal the driver to move forward by using hand signals or "Tighten up!" Allow a foot of slack line before moving on to the next step.
5. Yell, "Hit it! or "Go," and tense your body. The slack from the rope will tighten and pull you. Maintain the tension and resist the urge to be pulled forward. Transfer your weight from the dock on to the wakeboard and crouch low. Maintain your balance as the boat picks up speed.
6. Continue to maintain balance until the boat reaches your wakeboard cruising speed. A comfortable speed is around 18 to 20 mph for beginners. Enjoy the ride and experiment with various wakeboard tricks.

Tips & Warnings

• Ski gloves can help prevent rope burn and blisters.
• Experienced wakeboarders can invest in a wakeboard ski vest which is lighter and hugs the body. This type of vest makes it easier to do tricks without compromising on safety.
• Too much or too little boat speed can contribute to an unsuccessful start. Use an experienced boat driver.