Kneeboarding is a thrilling and popular watersport that is fun for anyone to learn and enjoy. All you need to get started is some quality gear, a large body of water, and a can-do attitude. Kneeboarders are pulled by a stiff, non-stretch rope behind a towboat. The rider sits on their knees, securing their legs with a strap while they ride. Some kneeboarders enjoy just being pulled behind the boat, while other riders enjoy doing tricks. Follow along with this beginner’s guide to kneeboarding and you’ll soon be riding behind the boat in no time!
Start with the Right Kneeboard
The first step in our beginner’s guide to kneeboarding is choosing the right kneeboard. Whatever you choose, you need to feel comfortable. Test out your kneeboard to make sure it has the right features before taking it out on the water. There are many different styles, shapes, and features on kneeboards to consider when choosing your gear, so choose one that fits your skill level, size, and activity. Kneeboards are broken into two categories: recreational and competitive. Since this is a beginner’s guide to kneeboarding, we won’t dive too deep into competitive wakeboards.
Recreational Kneeboards
These types of kneeboards are designed and recommended for kneeboard beginners. Generally roto-molded, they have softer and wider edges to provide both stability and floatation to the rider. Some even have fins for better control. While these boards aren’t the best to do tricks with, they do help provide a strong and stable platform to get comfortable with kneeboarding. Their optimal use is to gain an understanding of how kneeboards work, how to use your body to move around and do some light jumps and tricks.
Competitive Kneeboards
However, if you are more into tricks and the extreme, a competitive kneeboard is an option. These boards are generally lighter and made of high-tech materials. The edges are also generally thinner and sharper, giving the rider even more control which allows tricks to become a bit easier. Due to the construction of these kneeboards, they usually don’t float compared to recreation kneeboards, but it does make it so that you can do a deep-water start.
Types of Kneeboards
After choosing between a recreational and competitive kneeboard, the next step is to choose the right type. Kneeboards are further broken up into two categories: slalom and trick.
Slalom
A slalom-type kneeboard is designed for making those quick and controlled turns. At the same time, their flat bottoms make for a smoother ride.
Trick
Trick kneeboards are exactly what they sound like. Their bread and butter are making those hops, skips, and turns look effortless. The curved bottoms and rounded edges are perfect for pulling off all the tricks you can dream of.
Practice Makes Perfect
The next step in our beginner’s guide to kneeboarding is to practice. As the saying goes, “practice makes perfect.” In the case of kneeboarding, start off on dry land. While this may sound counter-intuitive, practicing on dry land allows you to carefully practice your form without all the pressure. Get a feel for the correct body posture which helps get you started on the water. Just because you don’t get up and riding at first, doesn’t mean you won’t eventually get the hang of it. Keep at it!
Starting in the Water
When you are first starting out in the water for a deepwater start with your kneeboard, keep your weight towards the back of the board so the tip of the kneeboard remains up and out of the water. When your towboat starts to pull you up, straighten your arms and look straight ahead to help with balance.
The Belly and Deepwater Start
For beginners, a belly start could be an easy way to begin in the water. First, start with your stomach on the board while in the water. As the boat starts to go, slide your knees up, holding the rope out in front of you Lean back slightly, and try to keep your weight centered over your hips. As you get your balance, keep one hand on the kneeboard rope, and use the other hand to pull your kneeboard straps up over your knees. Make sure that your kneeboard straps are securely fastened, and enjoy your kneeboard surfing ride!
Other Tips
And finally, in our beginner’s guide to kneeboarding, remember essential safety features such as a PFD (personal flotation device) and hand signals to communicate with the towboat. If you are boarding on a colder day, consider a wetsuit or drysuit to keep you warm and comfortable. If you aren’t sure when to wear a wetsuit, here’s a guide on when to wear one. Also, be sure to pack all the necessities needed for your watersports adventure.
With the right gear, a little bit of practice, and the right deepwater start tactics, you will be kneeboarding like a pro in no time. Visit your local Sun & Ski Sports for expert advice about different kneeboards and how to get started. Our experts will get you started on the right track! Or, visit our Adventure Resource Guide. There, you can find articles and tips on your favorite outdoor adventures such as our beginner’s guide to water skiing and how to choose the right hiking trail.