Like waterskiing, kneeboarding is an intense water activity in which a rider balances on a board while towing behind a boat at high speeds. As the name suggests, kneeboarders fly across the water behind a boat while riding on their knees.
A kneeboard is a particular piece of equipment necessary for kneeboarding. Kneeboards come in various brands and styles; selecting the proper one is crucial to enjoying yourself on the water. Kneeboarders should always wear a life vest for safety. For high-intensity water sports, choosing a lightweight life vest that provides lots of movement is a beautiful idea.
Having said that, how can you ensure that you are choosing the right kneeboard for you? Keep reading this piece as we guide you through the process. Let’s get started!
1. Know the various types of kneeboards available.
Since kneeboards are available in various types, the first thing you need to do is familiarize yourself with them. Remember that each type is designed for different types of riders. We have recreational kneeboards and competition kneeboards.
Recreational kneeboards are the ideal kneeboards for beginners. As their name suggests, recreational kneeboards are used for amusement and offer a smooth, enjoyable ride. These boards’ soft, broad edges are well-known for making turning and starting simple. Compared to their competition-level counterparts, recreational kneeboards are typically less expensive.
A rotomolded board is a significantly more sophisticated option. Rotomolded kneeboards are the recommended board for intermediate and advanced kneeboarders. The rotomolded hull is sleek and performs really well in the water, turning fast. They provide more control and smooth turning. Because of their slightly bigger base, rotomolded boards are also relatively buoyant and can help riders float if they fall off their board.
On the other hand, competition kneeboards are the most expensive types on the market. They have several advantages over less costly variants and are intended for use by advanced and competitive borderers. Competition boards are narrower and lighter, allowing for sharper tricks and faster turning. Because of their shape, the boards are less buoyant than recreational boards, which helps experienced riders take off in deep water.
2. Choose the right board style.
There are two distinct board styles: slalom boards and trick boards. The style of the board determines the type of use. Whatever your skill level, you should base your board type choice on your intended activities in the water.
The purpose of slalom boards is to facilitate slalom boarding. Their flat bottoms make for a smoother ride rather than complex tricks, and their sharp edges allow for better turning.
Trick Boards, as the name suggests, are made for doing tricks. Their sharply curved bottom makes it easier to get air for flips, spins, and other kneeboarding maneuvers because the edges are rounded, turns are smoother, improving performance.
3. Have a budget
Finally, set your budget and determine how much you will spend on a kneeboard. Kneeboards come at wildly varying prices, ranging from $50 – $500. However, it’s worth noting that higher-priced kneeboards often come with advanced features. So if you are not on a tight budget, you can go for them.
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.