Essential Guide to Wakeboarding
Come rain or shine, wakeboarding offers huge amounts of fun. What's a little rain when you're already soaking wet? Wakeboarding is an instant adrenaline-fix that's easy to pick up and progress with, and as you're on open water you don't have to worry about the pain of coming crashing back down to earth when things don't quite go according to plan. It's great for improving your balance, building your core and you’re guaranteed to make new friends. It's also one of the coolest looking watersports – always a bonus!
What is wakeboarding?
Think of it as water skiing’s younger, trendier and more popular brother. Usually enjoyed on a lake or open body of water, the same basic concept applies where you're towed behind a boat on a single board, with your main aim to hold on and enjoy the ride while using the wake of the boat to try out tricks. There's also the option of being towed by an overhead cable at many water sports centres or wake-parks – a cheaper alternative to boating and great for the environment too.
Wakeboarding is a great sport for people of all ages and fitness levels. Even if you're a weak swimmer, you can feel safe with a buoyancy aid to keep you afloat when in the water. It's a great full body workout but you'll be having too much fun to even realise you're exercising!
How can I get involved?
It really is easier than ever to hit the wake as loads of water sports centres and wake-parks allow you to just turn up, hire the gear and have a go. The right instruction can make all the difference, so a lesson or two is a great way to learn the ropes, get you up to speed and gives you the opportunity to have a go without the need to fork out for any gear up front.
Taking it to the next level
Wakeboarding can be pretty addictive once you start to get the hang of it. After a few sessions you’ll probably want to start thinking about buying your own gear to save money on renting each time you go – it’s always nice to have your own kit for a bit of confidence boost too.
A good wetsuit is a must as you're going to be spending a lot of time in the water. There are many good brands out there to choose from and it's worth spending a bit of money on a comfortable, long-lasting wetsuit with glued and blind stitched seams and decent wrist and ankle seals. An impact vest is also an essential purchase for keeping you safe and you’ll also want to consider a helmet.
Lastly, you'll be looking at your board and bindings. Trying out different rental boards is a great way to test various board sizes to find out which is best for you. Finding the right board for you is crucial in helping, rather than hindering, your progression. Avoid jumping straight to the pro-boards, and instead opt for a larger board or one with more fins to help give the board extra stability - ideal for when you're starting out!
You’ll find wetsuits, impact vests, helmets boards and bindings in wakeboard store here.
