The thrill and excitement of wakeboarding has attracted legions of enthusiasts and it's no wonder why. If you're interested in diving into this fast-growing water sport, make sure to check out these wakeboarding tips from Bakes Marine, the boating pros.
When it comes to wakeboarding equipment, beginners should invest in the best they can afford, particularly when it comes to boards and bindings. Many top brands, like Ronix, offer packages so that you can get everything you need with the confidence that it will perform well. High-quality gear can help you have an amazing experience on the water that will keep you coming back for more.
Safety is a crucial consideration. Every wakeboarder should have and wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vest - in some places, wearing a life vest is even a legal requirement. Nowadays, life vests are designed with performance in mind, so there are lots of stylish and comfortable options for keeping your crew safe on the water.
Once you've got your gear, it's time to find your footing, literally. Be prepared to wipe out - at first, it'll take some time to find your balance, just like with riding a bike. Try and try again, and your endurance, balance and performance will improve.
Simply standing up on the board can be a challenge for first-timers, so make sure you've decided how you will position your feet. Your dominant foot should be positioned at the rear of the board, with your weaker foot in front. In wakeboarding, riding with the right foot back is called regular, while riding with the right foot forward is goofy.
Using a shorter tow rope will make things easier at first, giving you more control over your board. Make sure not to pull on the tow rope. Instead, let it pull you. This will help save your arms and allow you to focus on the boarding experience.