What types of wakeboards should I get? (Beginner)?

Question

I'm pretty new to wakeboarding. I just stated this year and my dad bought me a Liquid Force Synergy board with the Element Binding. The only things I can really do are turn, jump almost wake to wake, and do 180's on the water. Is the Synergy board and Element Binding a good board for me to advance and learn tricks on or should I go with a different board/binding?

Answer 1

I'm sure that board is fine for a beginner.  Sounds like you just need to work on your edging more.  The key to getting air and being able to go wake to wake is the progressive edge.  You want to start out by beginning you edge towards the wake, slowly.  You don't want to power into the wake from way outside because you will tend to lose edge as you approach the wake.  By doing a progressive edge, you should not be on a hard edge until you are just outside the wake and edge all the way through the wake.  This maximizes your line tension at the top of the wake which causes the boat to do most of the work and provides maximum pop.  You will know when you have done this correctly because you will be bucked up into the air and it will probably surprise you the first time you do it correctly because you air will be significantly increased.  May I suggest you to check out the second DVD of 'The Book' Wakeboard Instructional series.  The Basic Foundations DVD will provide you with visual instruction on the techniques required to progress faster.  It will also help you to avoid developing any bad habits that might prevent progression.  It is worth the investment.  There are 5 DVD's in the whole set covering everything from equipment, boating safety and every trick from beginning spins and inverts to advanced tricks.  Very well made.  Good luck and most of all, have fun.