Bart's Beginner Wakeboard Tip

1. Be sure to have a wakeboard that is the right length and skill level.  Also, a pair of bindings that fit snugly and comfortably will help you get started.  Click here to shop Bart's variety of wakeboards, wakeboard bindings, and wakeboard accessories at barts.com.

Recommended Wakeboard Length

Rider Weight

Approx. Board Length

70-145 lbs.

95-180

110-200

145-250

128 cm

133.5 cm

138 cm

143 cm

2. Keep your shoulders square to the boat and your eyes on the boat while sitting relaxed in the water.  Bend your knees to your chest with the board just under the water and parallel to the back of the boat. 

3. The rider gives the O.K. to the driver.  As the boat begins to pull, your knees should stay bent and your arms should be straight but not locked at the elbows.

4. Be sure to keep the handle and rope low to the water.  This action helps maintain a squatted, balanced position.  Bart's carries a wide selection of wakeboard ropes and handles for riders from novice to pro.

5. Remaining crouched and centered over the board, turn one leg toward the boat.  The front edge will then "plane off" easier.

6. As your lower body turns, your upper body should remain square to the boat, your weight stays evenly distributed, and your eyes point at the boat.  

7. After the board has fully planed off, the rider can rise slowly from the crouched position.  Make sure to keep the handle below the waist and your weight even.  It is important to not stand too soon; this is one of the most common mistakes beginners make. 

8. Enjoy the ride!

Click here for Bart's entire selection of instructional and entertainment wakeboard videos and DVDs.

Reminders and Suggestions

• Do not forget to wear a Coast Guard Approved life jacket for safety.  Bart's life vests are offered in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes from infant to 5XL.

• Men's Life Jackets at barts.com

• Women's Life Jackets at barts.com

• Children's Life Jackets at barts.com

• Relax and let the boat pull you out of the water. Don't fight against it.

• Hand signals let the driver know to speed up (thumbs up) or slow down (thumbs down).  A spotter must be in the boat to relay signals to the driver and watch for a fallen wakeboarder.

• Keep arms straight but not locked.  Allowing them to be yanked forward or pulling back with them will cause you to lose your balance.

• Have fun on the water!