Essential Equipment You Need To Go Wakeboarding
Taking up a new hobby can be a little daunting, especially if it’s a sport like wakeboarding. Not only do you have to worry about getting it right, but you also should think about the risks of doing something wrong. This can all be prevented by getting the right equipment and ensuring that you’re prepared before you head out on the water.
So, if you’re thinking about taking up wakeboarding this year, this guide should provide you with the equipment you need and why they are essential.
The Board
The board is the most important piece of equipment you’ll need – without it, you won’t be able to wakeboard. When choosing a board, you need to make sure that you’re choosing one that suits your ability level.
If you’re a beginner, you should look for a board that’s a little wider and longer, as this will make it easier for you to stay on top of the water and get a feel for the sport. If you’re more experienced, you can choose a shorter, narrower board, which will give you more speed and control.
Most boards are made from either wood or foam, with wood being the more traditional choice. Foam boards are lighter and easier to manoeuvre, which makes them a good choice for beginners.
Bindings
Your bindings will attach your boots to your board and keep you securely in place while you’re riding. There are a few different types of bindings available, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your board and your ability level.
Strap bindings are the most common type of binding and are easy to get in and out of. They’re a good choice for beginners as they’re not too restrictive and offer a good amount of support. Plate bindings are more secure but can be a little more difficult to get in and out of. They’re a good choice for experienced riders who want more control over their board.
Wakeboard Boots
Your boots will attach to your bindings and provide you with support and traction while you’re riding. Wakeboard boots are usually made from neoprene or leather and have a thick sole to provide you with good grip.
Most boots will have a lace-up system, which allows you to tighten or loosen them as needed. Some boots also have a Velcro strap, which can help to keep your feet in place.
Wakeboard Rope
The wakeboard rope attaches to the back of the boat and is used to tow you around. Wakeboard ropes are usually made from polypropylene or nylon and are between 50 and 80 feet long.
They usually have a handle on the end, which you can hold onto, or a bar, which you can put your feet through. Wakeboard ropes also have a float attached to the end, which helps to keep the rope above the water and visible at all times.
Wakeboard Handle
The wakeboard handle attaches to the wakeboard rope and is used to hold onto while you’re being towed. Wakeboard handles are usually made from aluminium or plastic and have a foam grip to make them comfortable to hold.
Some handles also have a quick release system, which allows you to detach the handle from the rope if you need to. This can be useful if you fall off your board or if the rope gets tangled.
Wakeboard Vest
A wakeboard vest is a type of life jacket that’s designed to be worn while wakeboarding. Wakeboard vests are usually made from neoprene or PVC and have a foam interior to provide you with buoyancy.
Most wakeboard vests also have a zip-up front, which makes them easy to get on and off. They also have several straps, which can be adjusted to provide you with a snug fit.
Wakeboard vests are an essential piece of safety equipment and are required by law in some states.
Conclusion
Wakeboarding is a great way to enjoy the water and get some exercise. It’s important to make sure that you have the right equipment before you head out on the water. This guide should provide you with the essential equipment you need to go wakeboarding.