An Introduction to Wakeboarding Tips and Tricks
By Andy Whitcomb
Aug 28, 2023
Wakeboarding is a popular boating activity. Although it may seem intimidating at first, here are some tips that may help beginners wake up to the fact that sometimes “getting towed” can be fun.
Wakeboarding is like a cross between snowboarding and skiing. Invented by surfers, this board is now about five feet long and two feet wide. With feet secured to the board in boot-like bindings, the adventuresome individual usually is towed around behind a powerboat, capable of reaching at least 20 miles per hour and scoots around and over the boat wake like a giant topwater lure. How to master wakeboarding is similar to most skills: practice. But while doing some research on this beginner’s guide to wakeboarding, some basic wakeboarding tips and tricks were assembled.
Attitude
While still on the learning curve, be prepared to wipe out. There may be some snickers from the boat, but their turn is next. Just enjoy the process, the water, and the fun.
Preparation
Many wakeboarding lessons and tutorials mention stretching ahead of time to help avoid injury. In addition, the best wakeboarding equipment for beginners is gear that fits. Not only should the life jacket (and helmet if needed) be of proper size, but even though a loaner or test board may be used when starting out, consider that the sizes of the bindings and even the board itself can influence both safety and fun factors. And work out some hand signals with the boat operator so everyone can remain on the same page.
Lean into it
Initially when learning how to master wakeboarding, just standing on the board counts as a trick. Instructional videos on wakeboarding techniques for beginners abound but bent knees and “letting the boat do the work” will help with the procedure. Then, by tapping into your possible experience from skateboarding, boogie boards, or even sledding, you can use that knowledge of balance, angles, drag, and center of gravity to achieve more advanced wakeboarding tricks like edging, spinning, and jumping.
Some sources of wakeboarding tips and tricks mention that there are lakes with high-speed cable systems that can tow you around too. However, if going the traditional boat route, check the registration situation. The wakeboard will not need to be registered unless you are heading to a tournament, but the powerboat registration should be up to date so you won’t find yourself in hot water.
