Wake Boat Wakesurfing Guide

Wakesurfing is just one of the many types of watersports you can enjoy in your wake boat. This exciting activity is very similar to wakeboarding, with the participant being pulled behind the vessel with a tow rope and riding on a board. The main difference is that once a wakesurfer gets into the wake, they generally drop the rope and ride the steep face below the wake’s peak rather than holding onto the rope. If you’re interested in getting into wakesurfing, the wake boat experts at JC Sports have created this helpful guide.

Gear Up

Having the right gear is important for a successful round of wakesurfing. Besides just the wake boat, you’ll also need a sturdy tow rope with a padded handle, life jackets for all of your passengers, a wetsuit, and a wakeboard. Keep in mind that not all boards are suitable for wakesurfing, so check your model before you leave. 

Finding Your Footing 

Much like how people can be right and left handed, people can also be right and left footed. In wakesurfing, your dominant foot is the one you use to stop and maneuver yourself on your board. If you’re not sure which of your feet is dominant, play around with a soccer ball a bit and see which foot you tend to favor when it comes to kicking the ball. People who ride the board with their left foot forward are said to be using “regular” stance, while those who ride with their right foot forward are using “goofy” stance. Finding the right stance is important for controlling the board and keeping your balance. 

Getting Up

The most difficult part of wakesurfing is actually getting up on the wake. Start by getting settled on the board, with your feet placed about 18” apart on the board. Your back foot should be on the rear of the board, and your front foot should be in the middle. Signal that boat’s operator to hit the throttle, and hang tight to the tow rope so that the boat can gently pull you up to a full standing position. Next, find your balance. Speed up by putting more weight on your front foot and slow down by pressing down on your rear foot. Apply gentle pressure when you want to turn. Wakesurfing is difficult, so take your time. Once you’ve figured everything out, drop the tow rope and surf the wake!

Shop wake boats at JC Sports, Inc in Seneca, South Carolina. We’re proud to serve communities like Anderson and Greenville, South Carolina. We also offer financing, servicing, and parts ordering.