Wakesurf Boards

Wakesurf Board FAQs

Here are some answers to our most common questions about wakesurf boards and buying the right one for you.

1. What size wakesurf board should I ride?

Picking the right size wakesurf board is perhaps the most crucial thing to fun and successful riding. The main determining factor is the rider's weight, though slight differences are also found between wakesurf boards focused on particular riding styles. Kids and the lightest adults under 110 pounds will use boards up to four feet long, while the heaviest riders (250 pounds or more) should look for boards around five feet. In general, newer riders may do better on larger wakesurf boards, which ride slower and can be more stable as they learn. If there are multiple weight ranges, always resort to a board that fits the heaviest rider.

2. How much weight can a wakesurf board hold?

Wakesurf boards are commonly manufactured for riders up to 250 pounds or slightly more. This weight range is also the standard limit for many boats or other watercraft towing the rider, which may not be able to generate enough wake for heavier riders. Those weighing more than this may need to find specialized or customized equipment designed for their size. On the low end, there's no common minimum weight, though riders should always consult the range given by any board before purchasing.

3. What are the different styles of wakesurf boards?

There are two primary styles of wakesurf boards with important design differences related to riding style and skill. Surf style wakesurf boards look like smaller, slightly modified traditional surf shortboards. They come in a range of sizes and often include fins, contributing to their reputation for stability. Skim-style wakesurf boards are smaller and more maneuverable, better for doing tricks. Hybrid boards are also available and combine features of each style.

Wakesurf boards are also distinguished by rocker style, the term for how much of a curve exists along the bottom of the board. More rocker makes the board slower but easier to turn, while flatter rocker styles do the opposite. Finally, rail (edge) styles are a final factor when comparing wakesurf boards. "Hard" rails have sharp edges, making the board more responsive, while "soft" rails are rounded, providing more stability. "Blended" rails offer an in-between option.

4. What is a good wakesurf board to learn on?

Learning how to wakesurf is a fun, challenging experience, but new riders need the right board to begin. Generally, beginner boards should be on the longer and wider end of the size spectrum for a more stable ride. A moderate amount of rocker is also ideal, allowing a balance between speed and turning. In many cases, those who are learning will want a board with fins, including those that can be removed later as their skills grow. 

Wakesports Unlimited offers plenty of options that fit these guidelines and are excellent choices to learn on. Below are a few of our top choices:

Men’s: Ronix Koal Classic Fish Wakesurf Board

Women’s: Ronix Women's Koal Classic Fish Wakesurf Board

Kid’s: Ronix Sonic Powertail Wakesurf Board

5. What popular wakesurf board brands do you offer?

Wakesports Unlimited offers several different top brands representing some of the best choices within the wakesurfing world. These include Hyperlite, Ronix, Liquid Force, and Phase 5 with numerous models from each company. The selection is always changing, so shoppers should check back to see if something new has arrived.

6. What is the difference between a wakeboard and wakesurf board?

They might sound similar, but there are a few essential differences between wakeboards and wakesurf boards that stem from the difference between wakeboarding and wakesurfing. Wakeboarders will typically hold onto a wakeboard rope attached to the boat or watercraft for the duration of their ride, while wakesurfers will let go of the rope and surf the wake. Wakeboards use bindings to keep riders' feet on the board, which aren't typically present on wakesurf boards. In addition, fins are generally smaller or nonexistent on wakeboards, while wakesurf boards often have less rocker.