How to Select a Wakeboard
Wakeboarders need a reliable, durable board if they want to move into advanced skill levels. You need to know the characteristics of a good wakeboard before you make a selection.
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Instructions
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Consult with an experienced wakeboarder to determine the right weight-to-board size ratio for your needs. Heavier boards provide better protection against the wake and offer stability for beginning boarders.
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Invest in a fiberglass board. Wakeboards constructed of composite fiberglass can withstand years of rough waters and weather conditions. These boards are significantly more expensive than plastic boards, but investing in one saves you the expense of continually replacing flimsier boards.
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Choose a long board with rounded contours. Longer boards provide better control because they cut a bigger path through the wake.
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Select a smaller and narrower board. These boards provide mobility and greater jumps for experienced wakeboarders who are attuned to rough waters.
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Measure the curvature of a wakeboard to find the best rocker for your needs. Wakeboards with a high rocker have a steep curve from end-to-end, which gives you greater control in water. You should ask for a demonstration of curvature measurement by a sales person to find the right rocker for you.
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Control your wakeboard more effectively with a large rear fin. Boards with a single large fin or multiple smaller fins allow you to navigate through the wake without a significant amount of drag.
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Get a custom color and design scheme on your wakeboard. You can select a single-color board and have the board shop custom paint it so that you can stand out from the crowd.
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Schedule time at your local sports shop to test out a few wakeboards before you make a final decision. Most sports shops allow you to try a board with the manufacturer's bindings in a shallow pool to help you find your comfort zone.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose a set of high-quality bindings for your wakeboard to stay safe on the water. Bindings attach to the wakeboard and allow you to keep your feet locked in place as your boat pulls you around the lake. Bindings constructed of composite materials with varying levels of tightness are ideal for beginning wakeboarders.
