A good way to fine tune your wakeboarding skills is to choose the best wakeboard size that is ideal for your body type. The wakeboarding market is abound with all kinds of boards that vary by shape, length and width. We’ve received questions about finding the ideal wakeboard size and today we are going into detail about how to do so. There are a couple of key elements when choosing the best wakeboard size: the height and weight factor.

The Weight Factor in Choosing the Best Wakeboard Size

The most common reference in finding the right wakeboard is the manufacturers’ specifications guide. These are often posted on the manufacturer’s website or printed on the product labels. Most manufacturers rely on weight alone. Using weight as the sole reference would be fine if every human being were made identical. Within a standard recommended weight to board size guide you can have a large variance in heights and this height factor must also be taken into consideration when selecting the best wakeboard size.

Height Factor in Choosing the Best Wakeboard Size

Height is just as critical to board size as weight is! Many deny this citing that weight is most important in order stay afloat. Exactly! This is the exact reason height as just an important of a factor as weight. You also need balance right!? And what is the effect of height on balance?

Take, for instance, your recommended wakeboard size is X based on your weight Y. However, if you are unusually tall for your weight, then selecting a longer board set with wider binding inserts allows your stance to sit wider according to your height.  This will give you much more horizontal stability when riding and give you more balance.

Wakeboard Length

Wakeboard length can be skewed shorter or longer according to your body type and skill level. If you are shorter than average in regards to your recommended weight, your weight should take precedence. You should go with the recommended wakeboard size that is specified on the size chart in order to give you more surface area and float. This is not always the case for all riders but it does make some aspects of riding more forgiving [easier].

Wakeboard Size Chart
Heat Map Size chart

Common Height & Weight Rule

Different sizing guidelines apply to different wakeboard shapes. A good rule of thumb is, if multiple riders are going to be using the same board, base your selection on the weight & height of the heaviest rider. Larger boards are also wider which also provides more lift and softer landings. Beginners will have an easier time getting up, while advanced riders will enjoy increased rocker heights.

Wakeboard Weights

Wakeboard manufacturers like us are constantly experimenting with different materials and processes to make them lighter and more durable. Upgrading to a lighter board is like replacing a trusty Toyota with a sleek and powerful Porche. You might want the latter but it might with increased risk and a higher price tag.

As you decrease a board’s size it may feel lighter, spin faster, and seem more aggressive. However, landing becomes more difficult with the reduction in length and weight. This is due to the decreased surface area. Smaller wakeboards are a solid choice for pro riders who can handle high speed spins and need to add an extra 180 to land their next trick. But in general you can’t going wrong with sizing up a bit.

Next Steps!

Want to take your board selection to the next level? Why not build your ideal custom wakeboard personalized to your preferences? Customize yours now!

Refer to our Ultimate Wakeboard Enhancer below for a wakeboard size that will suit you best. Remember to consider the above information when deciding a larger or smaller size than recommended. Remember, using your weight AND height to determine the best wakeboard size.

Check out our shop and see what works best with your riding style — or customize one of your own! Need more help deciding? Learn more about how to buy a wakeboard, why we like Flex wakeboards, why we use M6 Binding Inserts, or even how to edge better. Happy shopping!

Armed with this extensive understanding about how to pick the right wakeboard. We’re confident that you’ll find (or create) exactly what you’re looking for with us. We’re committed to helping you achieve your on-the-water goals.

Have some more questions about wakeboard sizes? Ask us in the comments below.

Update: We released a new app that calculates your ideal board size using your height & weight. We recommend sizing up! Check it out below!

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