Board Advice for New/Old Wakeboarder

tommyadrian5 · Addict Joined: 16 Sep 2003 Posts: 907

So after pretty much letting my obat sit in my driveway for 6 years Ive gotten back into riding recently. While all my equipment is still in great condition I'm wondering if the board technology has improved since I bought the 2004 liquid force substance 138 i am currently riding.

Have boards gotten better/lighter in the last few years? Is it worth upgrading if I plan on riding alot? Also, does anybody have any advice on a board similar in style to the substance? IIRC I like a board with moderate pop.

da Liks · Addict Joined: 22 Aug 2010 Posts: 594

yes, and the bindings are really good these days!!

TheHebrewHammer · Addict Joined: 03 Dec 2010 Posts: 526

Boards have gotten a lot lighter in the last few years, and flex technology has really taken off if you're into that. Bindings are also a LOT more comfortable and lighter.

I'd say it's worth upgrading. If you don't want to pay full price for new gear, just grab some 2011 overstock or older stuff. Even 2008 boards should feel a lot better than what you're used to.

GnarShredd · Posted: Aug 22, 2011 5:15 am Post subject:

tommyadrian5, The substance is a great board/shape and if it's in good condition, I really don't see much of a point in upgrading yet if you want to save a little money. I'd say get a new pair of boots first and see how that treats you, you should be good with that for a while, at least until you get back in to the swing of things.

As everyone said, the big advantages of a new board are going to be in weight (just a little, doesn't make a huge difference IMO, at least for my riding) and the flex technology that some boards feature. I've still got a Liquid Force Litmus from 2004 or 2005 and it rides great.

pluto2 · Newbie Joined: 30 May 2011 Posts: 34 City: Destin

I'd agree with GnarShredd my newest board in good condition is a 03 hyperlite belmont, and I'm currently planning on just retro fitting it with some newer bindings

Wakebrad · Ladies Man Joined: 11 Dec 2003 Posts: 12257 City: Dallas

The substance was a great board. I would look into getting a Watson, which is a similar shape, but with a dual concave base which makes the landings a lot softer.

Bindings have improved a lot too. I'd check out the Ronix One's and see how they feel.

Another option for a board would be to go to a flex board, which Slingshot pioneered. Now a lot of companies are making them. Or even a hybrid of the 2 is the Watson Hybrid, which is slightly flexible, but not near as much as a slingshot.

I'd see if you can find somewhere to demo a flex board and see if you like it. If you set the tail down first on the water, the landings are buttery soft. I made the switch this season.