A day out on the water wakesurfing can be some of the best days of your life. But like any new sport, learning the basics can make or break your first experiences. The good news is that with the right guidance, you can go from struggling with balance to confidently carving in no time. Whether you’re completely new or just dusting off old skills, these five tips are designed to set you up for success from day one.

1. Pick the Right Gear

Choosing the right board is your first big decision, and it can make a world of difference in how quickly you feel comfortable on the water. Beginner wakesurfers benefit from boards that are bigger and wider, providing more surface area for balance and stability. Look for a board that matches your body weight and skill level—boards that are too small or narrow for you will feel unstable, while the right fit will help you stay steady as you learn.

And let’s not forget about safety. A snug, comfortable life vest is essential, even if you’re a strong swimmer. Not only does it provide peace of mind, but it also keeps you afloat with less effort, allowing you to focus on getting up on the board and catching that wave.

Pro Tip: Boards designed specifically for beginners, like those from Smith Board Co, are tailored to help you find your balance and control from the get-go, so you can focus on learning without worrying about stability.

2. Master the Basics Behind the Boat

Before you focus on riding the wave, get comfortable with the fundamentals of being pulled up behind the boat. When the boat starts moving, your initial body position is key. Keep your knees bent and your body low and centered, like you’re squatting. This position gives you a strong base, making it easier to pop up when the boat pulls you forward.

Once you’re standing, keep your knees soft to absorb any bumps or changes in speed. Let the boat do the work to pull you up, and concentrate on staying centered over the board—don’t lean back or pull against the rope, as this will only throw off your balance.

Quick Tip: Think of yourself as a shock absorber. By keeping your knees bent, you can better handle the movement of the boat and any turbulence on the water, making your ride smoother and more controlled.

3. Find Your Stance

One of the most important parts of wakesurfing is finding your natural stance—whether that’s regular (left foot forward) or goofy (right foot forward). Knowing this will give you more confidence and control on the board. If you’re unsure, try standing on a skateboard, balance board, or even just running up stairs. The foot you naturally put forward is usually your lead foot on a wakesurf board.

Finding your stance can make learning spins and balance much easier since you’ll feel more at ease controlling the board from your natural position. Plus, once you know your stance, you can work on foot placement and weight distribution, which are crucial for mastering spins and carving.

Testing Tip: If you feel comfortable, practice this on a skateboard or balance board at home to help build muscle memory. The more natural your stance feels, the easier it will be to find your balance on the water.

4. Let Go When You’re Ready

One of the biggest milestones in wakesurfing is learning to let go of the rope and let the wave carry you. When you’re ready, gradually release your grip as you feel the wave beneath you. The goal is to let the wake push you forward, while you use your balance to stay in the “sweet spot” of the wave. Don’t rush—ease into it and focus on using the wave’s energy to keep you moving.

Letting go can be intimidating, but start by releasing the pressure on the rope for just a few seconds and then picking up the pressure. With practice, you’ll feel more confident releasing the rope and letting the wake guide your ride.

Pro Progression: Once you’re comfortable, try without the rope in short bursts, releasing pressure on the rope and then feeling tension to build confidence. Eventually, you’ll be riding the wake like a pro without any assistance!

5. It’s All in the Hips

Smooth, controlled movement in wakesurfing is all about engaging your hips. Once you’re up, keep your weight balanced over the board and focus on using your hips to steer and control your direction. Many beginners make the mistake of relying on their arms to steer, but this creates a rigid and tense ride. By letting your hips guide your movements, you’ll have a more fluid and relaxed experience on the board.

This “hip-centric” technique keeps your body aligned and allows you to carve turns smoothly, making your ride feel effortless. Remember, your arms are there for balance—your legs and hips are doing all the real work!

Balance Hack: Look where you want to go, not at your feet! Your body will naturally follow the direction of your gaze, which helps with steering and staying balanced.

Enjoy the Ride

Learning to wakesurf is about building up a solid foundation and focusing on the basics, which will ultimately make more advanced tricks easier to learn later. Each of these tips is designed to help you feel comfortable, safe, and in control as you start your wakesurfing journey. Remember, every ride is progress, so keep practicing and enjoy the process!

Want more tips and tricks? Check back with us soon as we continue to share more expert advice and tips to help you become a wakesurfing pro in no time!