Our Top 5 Tips for Smooth Saltwater Wakeboarding  

Who says you need a lake or river to go wakeboarding? Thrill-seekers know how to take advantage of their saltwater digs for an exhilarating ride, every time. Follow in their footsteps—or, rather, wake—and learn the rhythm of riding in saltwater. Just read on to see some of our best tips!

Work with the weather

Weather is always worth considering before hitting the water—especially when it comes to saltwater sports, since wind, temperature and time of day can have a big impact on your experience. Pay attention to the wind forecast so you know how choppy the water might be. To ride gentler waters, your best bet is often to head out in the early morning. Not only will there be less boaters out on the water, but you will be able to enjoy smoother surfaces before the afternoon winds have a chance to pick up.

When it comes to Miami specifically, you’ll often find that storms and showers are temporary events instead of all-day affairs. So, if you’re ready to hit the water but things look stormy, simply use that time to catch a lunch break by the water. Things might just clear up by the time you’re through!

Gear up

If you’re not used to spending time in saltwater, you might consider wearing specialized gear in addition to your personal floatation device. Polarized surf glasses or goggles, for example, will help make it easier to see your course in the bright sunlight. They will also help shield your eyes from saltwater should you slip into the water after a long run!

Board with bounce

Because saltwater has more density than freshwater, you might be surprised at the subtle change in buoyancy. On the ocean, your board will tend to float closer to the top of the water—but by adjusting your weight on board, you’ll be back to your old tricks in no time.

Know your surroundings

Unlike your favorite freshwater lake, where the majority of the action is probably dominated by fellow wakeboarders and surfers, use of Miami’s bays and oceanfront spots is a little more varied. Because you’ll be sharing the water with everyone from anglers to fast-paced cruisers, sailboats and everything in between, it can help to be extra aware of your surroundings as you ride the wake.

Rinse off your board and bindings

Just as you rinse off your Vortex with freshwater after ocean adventures, you’ll want to rinse off your board, bindings and other gear, too, so that the salt doesn’t corrode your equipment. 

We hope that these tips help you enjoy Miami’s saltwater scene to the fullest. With so many bays, inlets and open-water expanses to explore, you’ll never get tired of cruising this warm, sunny paradise.