Fall Tips for Water Sports Fun

As the leaves change and the weather cools down, the familiar signs of fall are all around— but as summer comes to a close, your thrills on the water certainly don’t need to.

Getting in some choice water sport action this fall is all about preparing for the weather and seeking out new, seasonal takes on your favorite sports. Read on as we share a few of our top ways to do just that.

Throw on a wetsuit

Surfers use wetsuits to keep warm as they brave the cool, Pacific waters—but who says you can’t do the same to stay warm as you wakeboard, surf or ski?

While it’s worth noting that wetsuits won’t work for very cold (or freezing) water, it can certainly make the transition from summer to fall a little more comfortable. Enjoy your favorite lake or river stomping grounds for a while longer, as you watch the colors around you change from lush greens to rich, crisp reds, oranges and yellows—the signature signs of a beautiful fall day, well-spent doing what you love best.

Try a new kind of wake

Do you love the breezy thrill of wake sports—but don’t want to tumble into the water in cool weather? Try “wake kayaking!”

You can hop into a kayak and paddle your way through your Vortex’s wake, for a ride that’s as wild (or mild) as you want. This method isn’t foolproof—depending on the wake, there might be some slips and certainly some splashes—but it’s a new way to ride the water for fall. When you’ve gotten in your thrills, you can slow down and paddle around to enjoy the view closer to the coast.

Cozy up

Don’t forget to get warm and comfy in between your runs on the water! Use your Vortex onboard storage to stow away thick blankets and dry clothes, perfect for getting warm when those crisp, fall evenings start to set in. 

Know your water

As boarders, surfers and skiers, we’re always seeking out deep channels of water to ensure a safe ride. During the fall, seasonal changes (like less rainfall or planned drawdowns) can make your favorite body of water shallower than you are used to—so keep an eye on changes and always be on the lookout for rocks and other structures beneath the surface. 

Stay hydrated

We all know how good a big drink of water tastes on a hot day—the perfect reward after a long day of riding the wake. But don’t forget to stay hydrated during the cooler fall months, too! Boarding is a workout, and you’ll want all the fuel you can get to stay smooth, safe and replenished on the water.

Seek out the "golden hour"

If you’re looking to capture on-the-water action photos, fall is a great time to do it! The glimmer of golden-hour sun (which you’ll find in the late afternoon leading up to sunset) makes for primetime photography you won’t want to miss.

Ready—set—go! And enjoy the adventure that is fall on the water. We hope that today’s tips help you enjoy time on your Vortex to the fullest.