Wakeskating is a unique and exciting water sport that blends elements of wakeboarding and skateboarding. Unlike wakeboards, wakeskates don’t have bindings, which allows riders to feel more connected to the water. Whether you’re just starting or you’re a seasoned wakeskater, choosing the right wakeskate is key to maximizing your performance and enjoyment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the best wakeskate for your needs.
1. Skill Level
Your skill level is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a wakeskate. Wakeskates come in different shapes and features designed to support beginners, intermediate riders, and advanced riders:
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Beginner: If you’re new to wakeskating, look for a wider and more stable board. Beginners typically benefit from a board with a flatter rocker (less curve) and a larger surface area for added stability. A board with a mild concave can also help with balance while providing a bit of grip without too much aggression.
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Intermediate: Intermediate wakeskaters will want a board that allows for more maneuverability and control. These boards might have a slightly deeper concave, a more aggressive rocker for better pop, and be responsive enough for carving and sliding.
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Advanced: Advanced wakeskaters usually prefer boards that are lightweight, responsive, and allow for high-performance tricks. These boards typically have a deep concave, a sharper rocker, and more refined edges for optimal control during spins, flips, and high-speed rides.
2. Wakeskate Type
Wakeskates come in different shapes and designs, each offering different performance characteristics:
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Traditional (or Flat) Wakeskates: These boards have a flatter surface and are generally easier to ride for beginners. They’re great for basic riding, sliding, and learning the fundamentals of wakeskating.
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Concave Wakeskates: Most wakeskates have a slight concave shape, where the middle of the board is slightly curved downward. This feature helps with grip and control, making it easier to pop off the water. The deeper the concave, the more grip and control you get, making it easier to land tricks.
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Double-Concave Wakeskates: Double concave boards have two concave curves along the length of the board, one at the nose and one at the tail. This design offers maximum grip, pop, and control, ideal for riders who want to perform advanced tricks.
3. Board Size
Choosing the right wakeskate size is crucial for your riding experience. The size of the wakeskate depends on your weight and riding style. A larger board will offer more stability and control, while a smaller board will allow for quicker movements and higher performance.
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Size Guidelines:
- Beginner/Lightweight Riders (under 140 lbs): Wakeskates between 39” and 41”.
- Intermediate Riders (140-180 lbs): Wakeskates between 41” and 43”.
- Advanced/Heavyweight Riders (180 lbs and up): Wakeskates between 43” and 46”.
A general rule is that the lighter the rider, the shorter the wakeskate, and the heavier the rider, the longer the wakeskate.
4. Rocker Type
The rocker refers to the curve of the wakeskate from the tip to the tail. It affects how the board rides on the water and how easily it pops off the wake.
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Continuous Rocker: A smooth, continuous curve along the length of the board. This type of rocker offers a more stable, consistent ride with less aggressive pop off the wake, making it ideal for beginners and those looking for a smooth, easy-going experience.
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3-Stage Rocker: This rocker has a flatter center with a steeper curve near the tips of the board. It provides more aggressive pop off the wake, making it perfect for intermediate and advanced riders who want to perform higher jumps and more complex tricks.
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Hybrid Rocker: Some wakeskates have a hybrid rocker that combines elements of both the continuous and 3-stage rockers, giving you a mix of smoothness and pop for versatility. Hybrid rockers are often found on boards designed for all-around performance.
5. Construction and Material
The materials used in the construction of a wakeskate affect its performance, durability, and weight. Common materials include:
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Wood Core: Many wakeskates are made with a wood core, which provides a natural flex and more control. Wood cores are generally heavier but offer a solid, stable feel when riding. These boards are usually more affordable and can be great for both beginner and intermediate riders.
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Foam Core: Foam-core wakeskates are lighter and more buoyant, which makes them easier to control in the water. These boards are generally better for advanced riders because they provide a quicker response and more pop off the wake.
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Composite Materials (Carbon Fiber, Fiberglass, etc.): Some high-performance wakeskates feature composite materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. These materials are lightweight, durable, and stiff, offering excellent responsiveness and control for advanced riders.
6. Deck Shape and Edge Design
The shape of the deck and the edges of the wakeskate affect its handling and performance:
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Squared or Rounded Tail: A squared tail offers more grip and stability, while a rounded tail provides more fluidity and smoother transitions, making it better for tricks and maneuvers.
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Sharp or Blunt Edges: Sharper edges provide better control and more responsive carving, while blunt edges are more forgiving and better for beginners or those who prefer a more stable ride.
7. Grip and Traction
Unlike wakeboards, wakeskates don’t have bindings, so grip and traction are important considerations. Most wakeskates have some form of grip to help your feet stay connected to the board:
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Grip Tape: Similar to what you find on skateboards, grip tape provides a high level of traction. This is ideal for riders who want to stay firmly planted on the board while performing tricks.
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EVA Foam: Some wakeskates feature a soft, EVA foam pad on the deck for comfort and grip. These pads are typically softer than grip tape, offering more comfort during extended sessions.
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No Grip: Some riders prefer the sensation of no grip, especially for freestyle tricks. Wakeskates designed with a slick, smooth surface may allow more freedom for foot movements.
8. Bindings (Optional)
While most wakeskates don’t have bindings, some models come with optional foot straps or shoes. This is a personal preference, depending on how much control you want over the board.
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Foot Straps: These can be added to certain wakeskates to keep your feet attached while still offering a bit of freedom. They are typically used by those who are trying wakeskating with a little more security or want to try specific tricks.
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Shoes: Some wakeskates feature removable shoes or straps for added comfort and control, offering a more stable ride for riders who want the feeling of being attached to the board but without full bindings.
9. Brand Reputation
Several trusted brands dominate the wakeskate market, providing quality boards and accessories:
- CWB
- Hyperlite
- Liquid Force
- Slingshot
- Byerly
These brands offer a wide range of wakeskates suited for various skill levels and riding styles.
10. Price Range
Wakeskates can vary in price based on the materials, features, and construction quality. On average, you can expect to pay:
- Entry-Level Wakeskates: £150 - £250
- Mid-Range Wakeskates: £250 - £450
- High-End Wakeskates: £450 and up
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right wakeskate comes down to your skill level, riding style, and personal preferences. Take into account factors like board size, rocker type, construction, and grip, and remember that a well-chosen wakeskate can significantly enhance your experience on the water. If you’re unsure, consider trying a few different boards at a demo event or local shop to get a feel for what works best for you. With the right wakeskate, you’ll be ready to tackle the water with confidence and style!