How to Wake Skate

Many people know how to ski. Learning to wake skate is a variation of that skill. By using a special wake skateboard, the experienced wake skater can learn to do many tricks similar to those performed by a skateboarder. Just like a skateboard has non-slip grips, a wake skateboard has the same type of surface. Wake skaters typically wear special shoes to help provide traction.

Instructions

    • 1

      Put on your personal flotation device before you get in the water. No matter how good a swimmer you are, this is mandatory.

    • 2

      Lay the board in the water with the grip side up. Place the board so that it is perpendicular to the boat. While holding the rope near your midsection, lay flat on your back. Place your heels on the top of the board.

    • 3

      Ask the driver of the boat to apply some tension to the rope. With enough pressure from the boat, the wake board gradually turns up to the bottom of your feet. Bend your knees so your center of gravity is low to the board.

    • 4

      Stand slowly. Put the most weight on the foot that you plan to have in the back of the board. It may be more comfortable for you to ride with one hand on the rope and the other hand off once you wake skate.

    • 5

      Practice crossing both boat wakes to get the feel of the board. Try different stances to see which one works best for you. As you gain a feel for the wake skateboard, you soon can be doing all kinds of surf carving and simple tricks.