Not sure what wakeboard size is right for you (or the kids)? Don’t stress! You're good pals here at Skiforce are here to help. Regardless of if it's your first board, or you're looking for the next step, we'll walk you through the point to help you get the right sized board under your feet, and if you narrow down your selections, you can always check the brand recommendations on the board model pages!
How do wakeboard sizes work?
Wakeboard sizing is usually measured in centimetres, and it all comes down to how much surface area is under you. Most boards come in a range of sizes, with bigger boards giving you more lift, less aggressive and smoother rides, while smaller boards will be more hyperactive, responding quicker but can also be less forgiving.
If you find a board you like but get stuck on what size is best suited, all the weight ranges will be listed in the sizing section of every model page to point you in the right direction
What size/length wakeboard do I need?
Think of board length like choosing the right size board in any board sport, the bigger you go the more stability you're going to have and the higher the board is going to sit in the water, while shorter is snappier and more playful, but you may need to ride at a slightly faster boat speed. If you’re starting out, longer can be better, or if you're at the cable park, where the turn speed is slower. If you're a bit more comfortable, riding faster, and want more liveliness in your board, run shorter.
Your primary factor in choosing the right length in a wakeboard is weight-driven, with everyone having a sweet spot in sizing that is suited to their weight range.
Here’s a general guide:
| Rider Weight (kgs) | Wakeboard Length (cm) |
|
Less than 45Kgs |
Less than 130cm |
|
40Kgs - 68Kgs |
130cm to 135cm |
|
59Kgs - 82Kgs |
135cm to 140cm |
|
77Kgs - 110Kgs |
140cm - 144cm |
|
90Kgs - 150Kgs + |
Greater than 144cm |
Tip from your friendly Skiforce assistants: Heavier riders benefit from longer boards for stability and softer landings, while lighter riders enjoy the agility of shorter boards.
Still unsure? Drop us a message or stop by our Preston store — we’ll help size you up properly.
Does height matter when choosing a wakeboard?
Height doesn’t play an integral factor into board sizing, but does have more of a comfort factor. Due to stance widths on board, if you are taller or shorter, you may want to go longer or shorter in board length for comfort.
If you aren’t sure, it is best to stick with the recommended size for your weight.
What size wakeboard is suitable for 8 to 10-year-olds?
An 8-year-old (25–35kg) is best suited to a wakeboard in the 115-120cm size range, designed at a length where the boards are lighter and easier to control, while for a 10-year-old weighing roughly 30-45kg, look for a board in the 125cm and up to even a 128cm if you want to cover for growth.
You can package many of these boards up with an open toe binding that is adjustable in sizing, so the kids can grow with their board and not have to be replaced year in and year out.
Most of your major wakeboard companies, from Liquid Force, Hyperlite, and Ronix, plus many more, will make kids' specific boards in these size ranges to suit your little phenoms in training and help build their confidence to progress faster.
What are wakeboards made of?
Wakeboards are made of several materials, but they generally start with either a foam (Polyurethane or PVC) or wood core wrapped in a laminate, normally fibreglass, or, in some models, carbon. Some boards can be reinforced with stringers such as carbon, further fibreglass, or even different woods, layered in to alter the flex pattern, or CNC'd to increase flex in certain areas. These differing flexes from board to board can be preferred by both the style of riding (Cable or Boat) and even right down to a rider's personal preference.
How are wakeboards made?
Wakeboards generally get constructed in a few layering steps and and then a final press and finish, which we will break down below:
- Cutting and Shaping the core for the foundation of the board
- Insert binding bolt packs into the core mold
- Add stringers
- Apply graphic sheets and final laminates
- Heat press the materials together for the final rocker and finish
- Apply fins and package ready for delivery to it's new home!
Need help choosing the right wakeboard?
Our expert team at Skiforce.com is here to help. Shoot us a message, give us a ring, or come by our Preston store! We'll find you a handful of board options for your weight, skill level, and goals on the water, so you not only leave with the best board for you, but still get choice.