First Wakeskate

iowawake · Newbie Joined: 04 Jul 2003 Posts: 13 City: Des Moines

I am looking at buying my first wakeskate and was looking at getting a Hyperlite Scape because they are pretty cheap. Should I spend more and get a better board or will this one be good enough for a beginner?
Thanks for the help

03Belmont · Wakeboarder.com Freak Joined: 19 Aug 2003 Posts: 4656

I think that would be ok for a beginner... That's what I learned on!! I I liked it ok. Or you could get a older hyperlite catalist 112 for the same price

boarditup · Addict Joined: 01 Dec 2003 Posts: 731 City: Allendale, MI

Seventy bucks plus actual shipping gets a Wizard. It is a decent, basic board that is quite durable. Continious rocker, grip tape. PM me if you want one.

03Belmont · Wakeboarder.com Freak Joined: 19 Aug 2003 Posts: 4656

iowawake, I will sell you a reconditioned Hyperlite Platinum 112 with new griptape and paint for $50 plus shipping

HaveNewACL · Outlaw Joined: 21 Dec 2003 Posts: 207 City: Richland

has anyone heard anything about the gate

pooser · Wakeboarder.com Freak Joined: 13 Jan 2003 Posts: 4738

id go with a new scape cuz foam is mor forgiving for beginers and it doesnt break the bank but i wouldnt get some cheappy off brand board cuz you get what you pay for.

boarditup · Addict Joined: 01 Dec 2003 Posts: 731 City: Allendale, MI

The Wizard is pressed in the same factory as some of the "big names." It uses the same wood, glue, presses, and finish materials. It has different graphics and is not a mainline, marketed name. Of course if image is that important...go for it. Personally, I would rather have the gas money to ride more. Make your best choice and don't regret it, just ride.

TravelJunkie · Guest

is there a wakeskate better for girls? by no means am i a small girl i'm 5'9" and 128 so can i just get away with useing the guys bords or would it be better to get my own? I really want to work on wakeskateing this summer and get good at it. also do you think its a good idea for wakeskate newbies to wear a helmet? It makes me kinda nervious that i have the possability of beating myself in the head with the skate when and if i fall. Rolling Eyes

03Belmont · Wakeboarder.com Freak Joined: 19 Aug 2003 Posts: 4656

noneya · Addict Joined: 13 Jan 2003 Posts: 796 City: Roxboro, NC

We had multiple head hits from the skate this year on my boat. We actually have had 3 people hit their heads w/ the wakeboard (without it coming off) too, oh yeah it was different riders than the skate head hits.
The girls all ride the same skate as me, Cassette foam top (non concave). The grip tape ends up hurting more than actual hits imo .

boarditup · Addict Joined: 01 Dec 2003 Posts: 731 City: Allendale, MI

Look for a board about 40-42" long. It goes by weight. Gender makes no difference. Board length is sheer preference. Some ride lengths vastly different that their weight recommendation. A bigger board can be ridden a bit slower at the start until you get the feel of it. I always recommed your own board because it will have a familiar feel and will be predictable. For a first board, look for continious rocker, square ends, and a flat bottom (I know I will get some nasty feedback on this one). This is the most predictable board design for beginners. Some experts still ride this design very successfully. After you have the feel for it and can try some other designs, get another board. They are cheap enough.

As for helmets. Wear one. I have never been hit by a wakeskate (wakeboard or wakesurfer for that matter). However, you will be more confident with one and more agressive in your riding if you do not have fear. Ride hard and go for it. You may have some bumps and bruises on your ankles and shins from missing the remount your first few times, but that will come soon enough. Enjoy yourself riding!