Need help deciding which board/bindings to buy

mrthirsty15 · Newbie Joined: 21 Jun 2011 Posts: 9

Hey guys, I need help picking my next board / pair of bindings. I've done a bit of research, but am still having a difficult time deciding what to get. Biggest issue is that demoing any board will be difficult, due to the fact that there aren't too many wakeboard companies in Northern Wisconsin, therefore I'm trying to make the most informed decision I can before committing to buy (or make a trip to demo a board).

Current Setup

2004 Hyperlite State 245 - With an older pair of open toed bindings (not sure exactly what kind as it was purchased a while ago)

Boat: Malibu Wakesetter VLX
Style: Boat only, no cable parks or rails
Skill: Intermediate-Advanced (I can land frontrolls and 360's)

What I'm Looking for in a Board

- Nice pop off the wake
- Fast
- Light weight

What I'm Looking for in Bindings

- Comfort
- Support

Also, I'm not committed to any manufacturer and I'd be open for any suggestions/comments. Price isn't too much of an issue as well, but I'd prefer to keep cost under $650

So far, I've been liking what I've heard about the Ronix Mana, but a few people mentioned it was a slower board. I've also been looking at the Watson Hybrid, and the Byerly Assault.

Thanks in advance for the help!

mrthirsty15 · Newbie Joined: 21 Jun 2011 Posts: 9

Just realized I should probably list my height and weight and whatnot.

I'm 6'0" and weigh about 170 lbs

madtownrider · Newbie Joined: 07 Apr 2011 Posts: 6 City: Madison

a buddy of mine has a mana with the kai OT. the mana is a sweet board it has good pop and is sooooo smooth, and the kai boots are very comfortable they are right in the middle with support.

mrthirsty15 · Newbie Joined: 21 Jun 2011 Posts: 9

Yeah, I've pretty much narrowed it down to the Mana or the Harley. Thanks for the input on the mana madtownrider.

jayshonsykes · Newbie Joined: 25 Feb 2011 Posts: 17

I've got the Mana and it's a nice board. I got the Kai boots with it - they are stiff up top so you have more responsiveness on your carves. I didn't really like the stiffness though. I also have the Watson Hybrid and it's incredible. Never ridden the Harley but have heard nothing but positive things from it.

Seeing what you want, I would try to demo the Watson Hybrid. The board is so light and has exceptional pop. The Watson LTD bindings are the most comfortable I've had and I've had Ronix One's and the Kai bindings. But the Watson is expensive... I got the Mana with the Kai boots for $660 with tax and it's definitely a nice enough board to own. The pop is really really nice.

Some good boards to choose from though.

JoLo_Si · Criminal Joined: 24 May 2011 Posts: 87 City: Orlando

I just got the LF Witness with 2010 Ronix One's, come to find out my coach and his roomate both ride this same set-up. It's the most comfortable I've ever felt on a board and it's really helping me progress. Great edge hold, real light and the hybrid rocker gives nice pop with a really smooth and fast landing.
I hear this board is alot like the Watson Hybrid but that's just what I heard.