7 Tips for Water Sport Success

Now that warmer weather is on its way, you’re probably excited to try some new water sports!

While every sport has a unique set of techniques, maneuvers and must-do moves to learn, there are plenty of tips that apply to every kind of water sport—from tubing to wakeboarding and beyond.

Read on as we share a few simple tips for achieving success on the water, no matter what sport you try first!

Pick the perfect location

One of the most important aspects of water sports? Location, location, location! You naturally want a spot that’s as smooth and glassy as possible for creating the perfect wake (this can be achieved by heading out early in the morning, when less boaters are out). But what you really want to look for is an open space that’s removed from busy boating channels and shoreline obstacles, especially docks, rocks, and other features. This creates a safe, smooth adventure that is enjoyable for boater and boarder alike.

Start with a short rope

When you’re first starting out with a new towed water sport, opt for a shorter rope. This will cut down on slack and make it easier for new riders to stand up and get started—plus, for boarders, skiers and tubers alike, a shorter rope keeps the rider closer to the boat so that they can more easily communicate with (and hear from) the crew on board, who may be helping out with directions.

Learn to lean

The proper leaning technique is a key part of any water sport. For those standing up on two feet, leaning ever-so-slightly backward can create a more thrilling ride and, eventually, help with fun tricks such as aerials. If you’re riding on a tube, learning how to lean left and right can help you gain control of the wake and enjoy a more exciting experience (especially on backless tubes, which are built for thrills).

Don’t do all the work

A lot of skill and practice goes into every water sport, but don’t feel like you need to do all the work—your Vortex has you covered! By learning to not tug on the rope’s handle, and keeping it steady in front of your hips when standing up, you can achieve a smoother ride.

Learn simple signals

No matter what water sport you decide to pick up, the basic hand signals remain the same. They’re a crucial part of sport safety, as they help you communicate with your spotter on board, and fortunately, they’re pretty self-explanatory. Take a few minutes and commit them to memory for an effortless ride…

• Thumbs up, increase speed
• Thumbs down, decrease speed
• A-ok symbol, maintain speed
• Finger rotating in the air, turn
• Hand on head, head back to shore
• Finger across neck, stop
• Two hands above head, I’m okay (to be used after a fall)

Fall smart

Knowing how to fall is just as important as any other on-the-water technique! When it’s possible to do so, falling backward can help you avoid hitting your board on the way down. In general, try to be aware of your surroundings and the rhythm of the water so that you know where to fall and when you might be ready to tumble in.

Once in the water, place your hands above your head and keep your board, skis or tube above water so that you are more easily noticed by your boat and other boaters.

Build your skills back on shore

Rainy day, or still a bit too cold to hit the water? Rest assured, there are still plenty of things you can do to prepare for your water sport excursion! One of them is to exercise and build up your fitness, especially in your arms—whether you’re on a tube, board or skis, being able to hold onto a rope or balance your arms with the changing wake is essential. Your core and legs are also key spots to keep in shape, since they will help you maintain your balance and endurance on the water.

We hope that these tips help you enjoy your next water sports adventure to the fullest!