How to Learn Wakesurfing (Wakesurfing 101)

blazingfact

Mar 12, 2023

Wakesurfing is an exciting water sport that combines the elements of wakeboarding and surfing. Its roots can be traced back to the 1960s, and it was initially known as "boat surfing."

Unlike wakeboarding, wakesurfing requires less rope time. Wakesurfers make use of the wake generated by a boat to ride it almost indefinitely.

Wakesurfing is a combination of various maneuvers found in wakeboarding, surfing, skimboarding, skateboarding, and even snowboarding. As a result, the equipment used in wakesurfing is typically similar to surfboards, unlike wakeboards.

To enjoy wakesurfing, you will need a beginner-friendly board. These boards come in different styles, such as surf-style and skim-style wakesurfing boards. Each type of board is designed for a specific purpose, so it's essential to choose the one that suits your needs.

So, if you want to experience the thrill of surfing on small waves, give wakesurfing a try with the right board!

Learn wakesurfing

Wakesurfing Boats and How They Work

To wakesurf, you need an artificially generated wave, which is created by a towed boat. Wakeboard boats are modified to produce wakes that are perfect for wakesurfing.

Boats used in wakesurfing come with subtle yet highly useful features and technology to help create bigger and better wakes. These include lead and concrete weights added to different parts of the boat's ballast to weigh it down and produce more rideable surfing waves.

The deeper the wake boat is in the water, the bigger the wave will be. However, it needs to be in the right place, and boat owners should place more weight on the side where the rider is surfing to create a clean, open wave face.

Modern wakeboarding boats come with advanced technology that allows drivers to customize the wave they want and adjust the wake's settings to the rider's experience level and style.

Wakesurfers must also adjust the length of the rope they use to enter the wave. It should ideally be set to where the wake's lip curls. A long rope will take you too far back, and a short rope will get you too close to the boat.

If you're already an intermediate surfer or wakeboarder, you'll find it easy to learn wakesurfing. If you're not, don't worry! With just a few hours of practice, you'll be able to enjoy the thrill of surfing these nearly endless waves.

Wakeboarding 101

Learn How to Wakesurf Behind a Boat

Wakesurfing is a thrilling water sport that combines the excitement of surfing and the adrenaline of wakeboarding. If you're new to the sport, it may seem daunting at first, but with some practice and guidance, you'll soon be able to ride the waves like a pro. Here are some steps to follow:

Step 1: Safety First

Before you even start, put on a Coast Guard Approved (CGA) life jacket to ensure your safety while on the water. Always prioritize safety!

Step 2: Get Ready

Grab your board and rope and jump into the water. Turn your board perpendicular to the boat and put your heels on the board near the rail that is closest to you. Sit back and relax.

Step 3: Give the Thumbs Up

Give a thumbs up to the boat driver to let them know you're ready to go. Make sure the driver knows you're a beginner so they can adjust the speed and wave size accordingly.

Step 4: Start Wakesurfing

As the boat starts moving, use your arms to pull yourself up, trying to stay outside of the wake at first. Once you're up, get comfortable with the ride and slowly drift into the wake. Hold on to the rope and get to know the dynamics and sweet spot of the wake. You'll feel the wave pushing you forward and will be able to adjust your body position to stay on it.

Step 5: Cruise by Yourself

Throw the rope into the boat and cruise alone when you're ready. Ride the waves created by the boat to experience the thrill of wakesurfing. To maintain your balance, keep your weight centered and shift it as needed. With enough practice, you'll be able to master the sport and ride like a pro in no time!

Remember to always practice safety first, respect other boaters and swimmers in the area, and have fun!

Now that you're comfortable wakesurfing, it's time to try some new tricks and techniques:

Start by riding up and down the wake, getting a feel for its movement.
Try some snaps off the top of the wave for an extra challenge.
To gain speed, pump the board up and down in the water.
If you want to catch some air or try a 360, get to the back of the wave, build up some speed, and launch off the highest point.

Wakesurfing Competitions

There are several organizations that host wakesurfing competitions, including the World Wake Association (WWA), the Competitive Wake Surf Association (CWSA), and the International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF).