Before we get to our list of best wakeboards for beginners, let’s talk about the sport. It feels so refreshing when you’re finally able to go wakeboarding. This activity was first invented in Australia back in the 1980s. In just a few years, it gained popularity all around the world. Wakeboarding has a wide range of forms, techniques, and styles. And to perform the most excellent trick, you need the best wakeboard in the world to support you. Many people love watersports. However, not all of them dare to try wakeboarding. We think everyone should try this super fun activity at least once in a lifetime.
Many movies helped wakeboarding become a part of pop culture. Maybe it’s your turn to show everyone your most incredible wakeboarding trick. Surfing is fantastic, but wakeboarding is on another level. Just put on the best wakeboard in the world, wear your wakeboard helmet, tag yourself on a boat, ride and have the best time of your life.
If you ask, what are the best wakeboards for beginners? The answer depends on your level. If you’re just starting out, we understand that you still have no idea which one is the perfect wakeboard for you. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best wakeboards so that you can progress.
As you get better and more skilled, you can upgrade to the best wakeboard for intermediate level. However, in the beginning, you really don’t need a fancy or pro-level wakeboard. Save your money and spend it on a wakeboarding course instead. But if you have the budget, buying a pro-level wakeboard will also be a good investment.
Table of contents
- Liquid Force Angel
- Slingshot Sports Bishop
- Hyperlite Machete
- Liquid Force Trip
- Ronix Quarter ‘Til Midnight Secret Flex
- Slingshot Sports Bishop
- Hyperlite Murray
- RAVE Sports Impact
- Ronix RXT
- O’Brien System
- Absolute Outdoor Full Throttle Aqua Extreme
- Ronix Vault
- Hyperlite State 2.0
- How To Choose The Best Wakeboards for Beginners and Intermediate
- How much does a good wakeboard cost?
- Is a bigger wakeboard better?
- Do you need to wax your wakeboard?
Liquid Force Angel
13
The Liquid Force Angel is available in 134cm length. We think this is the best wakeboard for intermediate female riders because it features a rounded squaretail shape and reverses sidecut ends. And in addition to that, it comes with an aggressive continuous rocker that gives you the best control when you ride the waves.
We really mean it when we say that the Liquid Force Angel is the best wakeboard for intermediate level. The three-position M6 inserts provide you with a better feel and control when riding it. Also, did we mention that this board is constructed of FSC-certified wood? The full wood profiled split-core Dura-Glass Layup is ultra-strong yet easy to control.
- What We Love:
- The new shape with reverse sidecut ends.
- Pros:
- Three-position M6 inserts
- Aggressive continuous rocker
- Diamond bat-taol shape
- Cons:
- Not suitable for beginners
Slingshot Sports Bishop
12
This is the perfect all-around wakeboard for all riders who love to do big off the kickers. The Slingshot Sports Bishop is a happy-medium one-board cable slayer that can handle hard landing seamlessly. It also maintains a loose and free feeling on rails and obstacles. The flex tips are designed to make nose and tail presses more exhilarating. It’s not wrong when we say this is one of the best wakeboards for beginners. You get a lot without paying too much.
Not only is it an excellent wakeboard for the money, but many people also say that this is the best wakeboard for intermediate and advanced riders. This board is big and bold, just like its design. This is a considerable upgrade from its predecessor that was launched in 2019. The new Slingshot Sports Bishop features a looser and more playful feel.
- What We Love:
- A sturdy board with a bold design.
- Pros:
- Atomic wood core
- Strong but flexible
- Three-stage rocker
- Narrow outline
- Cons:
- A bit heavy
Hyperlite Machete
11
Not only is this the best wakeboard in the world, but the Hyperlite Machete is a class on its own. This board was designed by Rusty Malinoski and Shaun Murray with four removable fins and step-down edges for faster speed and better control. We also love the fact that it uses M6 hardware that makes the board ultra-lightweight. If you love performing new tricks, this one’s for you!
The three-stage rocker provides you with a very smooth and comfortable ride. The quick transfer of weight creates better maneuverability. This wakeboard is flat in the center. That’s why it’s ideal for making a better pop. The Hyperlite Machete is also famous for its stability. It makes sense why many riders think this is the best wakeboard in the world for all levels.
- What We Love:
- A lightweight board for better maneuverability.
- Pros:
- Three-stage hybrid rocker
- Better weight transfer
- Very durable
- Cons:
- The bindings tend to loosen up easily
Liquid Force Trip
10
If you’re an amateur rider looking for a high-quality wakeboard, we highly recommend checking the Liquid Force Trip. We think this is one of the best wakeboards for beginners. In fact, the Liquid Force Trip is one of the most popular entry-level wakeboards so far. This board has been around for a while. But the popularity keeps rising and rising because it’s actually that good.
Many newcomers in the wakeboarding world choose the Liquid Force Trip because of its reliability. We dare to say that this is the best wakeboard in the world for beginners like you. The good thing about this board is its ready-to-ride setup. That way, you can just ride it on day one without worrying about all the confusing setup processes.
- What We Love:
- A user-friendly board for beginners.
- Pros:
- Comfortable index bindings
- Soft flex
- Ready-to-ride setup
- Cons:
- Only one size option
Ronix Quarter ‘Til Midnight Secret Flex
9
Talking about the coolest wakeboard in the room, we should mention the Ronix Quarter ‘Til Midnight Secret Flex. We really love its mysterious and exceptional design. Other than its unique design, we also love the performance. This is an all-purpose wakeboard for everybody. That’s why we think this is the best wakeboard for intermediate, advanced, and beginner.
It’s time to ditch your old boring wakeboard and replace it with the Ronix Quarter ‘Til Midnight Secret Flex. When you ride it for the first time, you’ll immediately notice that it’s more responsive and lighter than your previous wakeboard. The hybrid continuous rocker provides you with pop without sucking speed. It also allows you to switch from smooth to high-speed cuts with aplomb.
- What We Love:
- A high-performance board with a fantastic design.
- Pros:
- Modest flex construction
- Fast take-off
- Hybrid continuous rocker
- Cons:
- No other color option
Slingshot Sports Bishop
8
The Slingshot Sports Bishop is the best wakeboard in the world designed for the new-school park rider who isn’t scared to stand out from the crowd. It’s an excellent meld of medium and soft flex for the ultimate wakeboarding experience. Compared to the previous generation, now it’s bigger and better than ever! The chined rails increase durability and allow the board to slide rougher surfaces without damaging them.
This board is nicknamed the hottest butter knife in the kitchen. It makes sense why it’s still the best wakeboard in the world for those who want to stand out from the crowd. It’s also available in various sizes to accommodate different riders. And the best thing about this board is its direct connect soles. You get better flexibility under your foot for a better connection to your board.
- What We Love:
- A versatile board to dodge all obstacles.
- Pros:
- Medium-soft flex
- Wide range of sizes
- Direct connect soles
- Deeper flexibility
- Cons:
- A bit more expensive compared to other brands in the same category
Hyperlite Murray
7
If you’re looking for a great wakeboard explicitly designed for professionals, this is the answer! The Hyperlite Murray is a professional wakeboard packed with advanced features to help you tackle all the challenges. Also, did you know that this is actually a pro-surfer Shaun Murray’s signature model? This board provides you with a versatile performance for the best wakeboarding experience.
Even though this is an excellent board for professionals, many riders also say that this is the best wakeboard for intermediate level. The versatility makes this board a perfect choice for intermediate to pro-level riders. The shape of the board was based on Murray’s 20 years of experience in the wakeboarding world.
- What We Love:
- Advanced features for a seamless wakeboarding experience.
- Pros:
- Massive boosts off the wake
- Variable edge design
- Easy to spin
- Cons:
- Premium price
RAVE Sports Impact
6
For new wakeboard enthusiasts out there, we present the best wakeboard in the world designed for beginners. This is the all-new RAVE Sports Impact with the updated design for better balance and control. This excellent entry-level board with its continuous rockers keeps the board stable, predictable, and easy to control. Also, it allows for a much softer landing.
We highly recommend the RAVE Sports Impact for those just starting out because it’s very durable and reliable. This board is constructed of high-quality materials that are strong, flexible, and lightweight. It’s built to last. That’s why we think it’s one of the best wakeboards for beginners. You don’t have to spend lots of money on a wakeboard.
- What We Love:
- The all-new design for better control and balance.
- Pros:
- Removable fins
- Adjustable boots
- Reinforced edges
- Softer landing
- Cons:
- Doesn’t come with an installing instruction
Ronix RXT
5
Ronix has been the market leader when it comes to advanced wakeboards. And with the Ronix RXT, this brand tries to beat the market even further. If you’re talking about the best wakeboard for intermediate and advanced riders, you can’t skip this one! Because of its high efficiency and advanced construction, many riders highly recommend this board.
We really love the Ronix RXT because it’s the best blend of response, feel, weight, and ultra-soft landings brewed in its secret sauce Blackout Technology. The unmatched modernization was created for the most progressive riders looking for the best wakeboarding experience. This is the best wakeboard in the world for intermediate and professional riders. It’s time for you to show the world your most fabulous tricks and impress everybody!
- What We Love:
- A continuous rocker for fast transition and consistent gliding.
- Pros:
- The black-out technology
- Advanced construction
- Four fiberglass ramp fins
- Cons:
- Not suitable for beginners
O’Brien System
4
The O’Brien System delivers top-notch performance without the hefty price tag. Who says that you have to spend a lot for a high-quality wakeboard? The O’Brien System is one of the best wakeboards for beginners that doesn’t break the bank. This excellent wakeboard is built for stability on the water and predictability off the wake. This is the perfect wakeboard for dialing in basics and upgrading your skills.
We highly recommend the O’Brien System because you get to ride a solid and sturdy wakeboard for less than $300. For anyone getting started or looking for a board to share with friends, you can’t go wrong with the O’Brien System. It’s true when many riders say that this is one of the best wakeboards for beginners.
- What We Love:
- An excellent entry-level board for everyone.
- Pros:
- Dual molded channels
- Ultra-lightweight
- Continuous rocker
- Dual-zone laces
- Cons:
- Fins not included
Absolute Outdoor Full Throttle Aqua Extreme
3
Meet the newest beginner wakeboard, the Absolute Outdoor Full Throttle Aqua Extreme. If you’re a complete amateur looking for the best wakeboard in the world, you should consider this one. This board features a continuous rocker design which allows you to ride smoothly. Not only that, but you can also lift the board effortlessly.
With the Absolute Outdoor Full Throttle Aqua Extreme, you have better edge control and overall stability. The two molded-in fins make it easier to cruise around. This board is built to make your wakeboarding experience as pleasant as possible. All the performance-enhancing features are there to help beginners thrive. That’s why we think this is the best wakeboard in the world for those who are just starting out.
- What We Love:
- A beginner-friendly board with performance-enhancing features.
- Pros:
- Continuous rocker design
- Defined channels
- Great stability
- Cons:
- The bindings loosen up easily
Ronix Vault
2
There’s so much to love about the Ronix Vault. That’s why it remains the best wakeboard in the world for those who can’t compromise about style. The enchanting design is unlike any other wakeboard. Maybe it’s time to ditch your old boring wakeboard and replace it with the new Ronix Vault. If you want to be the most extraordinary rider in the room, it’s your time to shine!
The best thing about this board is its compatibility. The Ronix Vault is great for riders on all levels, from beginners to professionals. The Ronix Vault comes with a three-stage rocker that allows you to achieve explosive pops. Because of its explosiveness, this board is viral among riders all around the world. Not all brands can make the best wakeboard for intermediate, advanced, and amateur riders all at the same time.
- What We Love:
- Just one capable wakeboard for all levels.
- Pros:
- Sharp toeside rail
- Three-stage rocker
- Very stable
- Cons:
- Need some time to break into
Hyperlite State 2.0
1
The Hyperlite State 2.0 is the star among all the best wakeboards for beginners. Priced just under $400, you get to enjoy all the features usually found on premium wakeboards above $500. This is an outstanding wakeboard that will help your performance improve to the next level. Once you get this board, your experience will never be the same again.
This board comes with a unique design that stands out among others. The special design allows for more pop without compromising speed. And since the edge is shorter on your toe side, it provides you with better stability and comfort. Also, the molded-in ABS fins give you much better control.
- What We Love:
- An outstanding wakeboard with excellent stability.
- Pros:
- Monocoque construction
- Biolite 3 core
- Boosty pop
- Layered glass
- Cons:
- Heavy
How To Choose The Best Wakeboards for Beginners and Intermediate
Finding the best wakeboards for beginners is not hard but can be a chore. Wakeboards come in different sizes, shapes, and designs. There are so many options to choose from. We suggest buying the best wakeboard for your skill level. If you’re just starting out, it’s wise to buy a more affordable board. But if you’re confident enough with your skill and you can afford a better wakeboard, it’s okay to buy the premium one.
Length
The length of your wakeboard will determine the level of comfort when you ride your wakeboard. Every wakeboard brand has its own size guidelines, and you have to check carefully. If you’re all about style and tricks, you may want to get a short wakeboard. But if you’re still learning, we suggest getting a longer wakeboard for better control and balance. The best wakeboards for beginners are the ones that feel comfortable to ride and are easy to handle.
Material
Once you pick the right length for your height, don’t forget to check the material. The best wakeboard in the world is always light and easy to control. It allows you to jump and do other types of stunts easily. But it’s also tough enough to withstand impact. Some of the most common materials used to make a wakeboard are foam board and honeycomb.
Fins and Rocker
The fins in your wakeboard help to better steer the board. Even though not all wakeboards come with fins, it’s actually a crucial part of the action. And the rocker refers to the shape of the wakeboard’s bottom. The rocker shape can make or break your experience. We highly recommend getting a wakeboard that features fins and an advanced rocker design for better maneuverability.
Skill Level
And on top of it all, consider your skill level before deciding to buy the best wakeboard for intermediate, advanced, beginner, or even expert. Getting a board that suits your skill level ensures you can make better progress. Slowly but surely, you’ll unlock the next skill level as you get better and better.
How much does a good wakeboard cost?
We all can agree that wakeboards are pretty expensive. However, it doesn’t mean that you cannot buy a good wakeboard on a budget. You can expect to get high-quality and branded wakeboards anywhere from $200 to $600.
Is a bigger wakeboard better?
A bigger wakeboard is generally slower. But the good thing is, it tends to be more stable and smoother to ride. The large surface area on a big wakeboard helps prevent catching your edge, making the landing much softer. So it all depends on whether you prefer stability or speed.
Do you need to wax your wakeboard?
Unlike a surfboard, waxing your wakeboard isn’t always necessary. However, there might be some cases where it might be required for you to wax your board. Especially when you know there will be many obstacles, you may need to apply surf wax for less friction.
