Wake Surfing – Wow, what a ride!
Wake Surfing – Wow, What a Ride!
Wake surfing is an exciting and thrilling water sport that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a great way to get out on the water and have some fun with friends and family. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, wake surfing can provide an adrenaline-filled experience that you won’t soon forget. In this article, we will explore what wake surfing is, the benefits and drawbacks of the sport, and how to get started. So, let’s dive in and take a look at what wake surfing is all about.
And yes, that’s me wake surfing in the picture. It’s never too late to try something new!
Table of Contents
What is Wake Surfing?
Wake surfing is a water sport that involves riding a surfboard behind a wake boat on a lake. The boat creates a large wake, which the surfer then rides. The surfer can use the wake to perform tricks and maneuvers, such as turns, jumps, and spins. Wake surfing is similar to wakeboarding, but the main difference is that the surfer does not use a rope or handle to stay attached to the boat. I find wake surfing to be easier and more fun. I’m 51 years old though.
Benefits
Wake surfing is a great way to get out on the water and have some fun. It is a awesome way to stay active and get some exercise. It is also a lovely way to bond with friends and family. Wake surfing can also be a great way to improve your balance and coordination while strengthening your core and legs.
Drawbacks
Wake surfing can be dangerous if not done properly. It is important to wear a life jacket and follow all safety guidelines. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and be aware of other boats and swimmers in the area. And wake boats aren’t cheap.
How to Get Started
The first step is to find a friend with a wake boat. You will also need a rope, surfboard and a life jacket. Then get that friend to teach you the basics and cheer you on. Then treat them to burgers and beer. You could also see if a lake near you has wake boats to rent, or, you could spend a boatload of money getting a wake boat yourself and enjoy it whenever you want to!
The Basics of Wake Surfing
So you’re floating in the water, wake surf board in hand, and your buddies on the boat ready to go. You should have a spotter keeping their eye on you, and a driver to make sure the boat stays out of trouble.
If you’re right footed (ie. you put your left foot forward when riding a skate board and pump with your right) then you’ll want to do the same and put your left foot forward on the surfboard too. So grab the top left of the board holding it sideways half in the water, with your left hand. Pull rope is in your right hand. Get your left foot, toes as far forward on the board as you can, basically the top left corner of the grip on the board, and right under your hand. Put your right foot on the top right of the grip. The closer your toes are to the edge of the board the less energy you’ll expend pushing on your toes with feet, which can be quickly exhausting. Slide your left hand to the middle so you have both hands on the tow rope, lean back, lock your core, and call “GO!”.
The driver should quickly get the boat up to about 11 knots, and should keep it relatively straight so the wake keeps it’s shape. You, need to lean back pushing your legs out straight to start and lifting your torso up with the straight arms on the tow rope. You’re up now! So find your sweet spot on the wake and toss the rope to your spotter. Your sweet spot should be a position that’s relatively relaxing and holds your spot on the wake behind the boat.
It may take a few times to get up, and it may take a few more to find your sweet spot, but you’ll be up and having fun in no time.
Tips for Wake Surfing
Once you have the basics down, here are a few tips that can help you improve your wake surfing skills. First, it is important to practice your balance and coordination. Leaning body forward into the wake will lift you up and take you further away from the boat. Putting your weight on your front foot will take you closer to the boat. Watch this, you can actually ram the boat from behind, but you’ll probably fall (good choice) before you reach the boat.
You should also practice leaning and pushing to get a feel for the wake and the board, trying different tricks and maneuvers to become more comfortable with the sport, but that’s an article for another time. Mostly, it is important to stay focused and have fun.
Final Words / TLDR
Wake surfing is an exciting and thrilling water sport that can provide an adrenaline-filled experience. It is a great way to get out on the water and have some fun with friends and family. It is important to follow all safety guidelines and be aware of your surroundings. With practice (that’s the fun part) and dedication, you can become a most excellent wake surfer.
FAQ
Q: What is wake surfing?
A: Wake surfing is a water sport that involves riding a surfboard behind a boat. The boat creates a large wake, which the surfer then rides. The surfer can use the wake to perform tricks and maneuvers, such as turns, jumps, and spins.
Q: What are the benefits?
A: Wake surfing is a great way to get out on the water and have some fun. It is a fantastic way to stay active and get some exercise. It is also an exciting way to bond with friends and family. Wake surfing can also be a fun way to improve your balance and coordination and strengthen your core and legs.
Q: What are the drawbacks?
A: Wake surfing can be dangerous if not done properly. It is important to wear a life jacket and follow all safety guidelines. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and be aware of other boats and swimmers in the area. Wake boats are expensive, but worth it!
Q: How do I get started?
A: The first step is to find a friend with a boat, lol, that is suitable for the sport (or buy one yourself). You will also need a surfboard and a life jacket. It is also important to find an experienced wake surfer who can teach you the basics and provide guidance. My first ride was when I was 50, I am not particularly athletic, at all, I made it up after a couple of tries and have a blast doing it every summer now. Anyone can do this and have an awesome time.
Q: What tips can help me get started?
A: Get your heals back as far as you can and your feet as far apart as the board will let you, then find your sweet spot from there. You don’t want to be pushing with your feet just to keep your balance, you want to riding that wake! Also, find the sweet spot where you can relax and ride the wave between tricks. Finally, it is important to stay focused and have fun.
