Wakesurfing is a fun water sport. It feels like surfing but behind a boat. If you are new to wakesurfing, you will need the right clothes. Wearing the right clothes helps you enjoy and stay safe. This guide will tell you what to wear when wakesurfing as a beginner.
Why Is Clothing Important for Wakesurfing?
Wakesurfing needs a lot of movement. You need to balance and move your body freely. Clothes that fit well and feel good make it easier. Also, the water can be cold or hot. Your clothes protect you from the sun, cold, and water. Safety is important too. Wearing a life jacket is a must. It keeps you safe if you fall in the water.
Basic Clothes to Wear for Wakesurfing
Here are the main clothes you need to wear:
- Swimwear: A good swimsuit or boardshorts is best.
- Rash Guard: This is a tight shirt that protects your skin.
- Wetsuit: For cold water, a wetsuit keeps you warm.
- Life Jacket: Always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Swimwear
Swimwear is the base layer. Choose swim trunks or boardshorts for men. Women can wear a swimsuit or bikini made for sports. Make sure the swimwear fits well. It should not be too loose or too tight. Loose swimwear can get caught on the board or rope. Tight swimwear can be uncomfortable and limit movement.
Rash Guard
A rash guard is a special shirt. It protects your skin from the sun and from rubbing on the board. When you fall, the board can rub your skin. Rash guards stop this from hurting you. They also help keep you warm in cool water. Rash guards come in long or short sleeves. Choose one based on the weather.
Wetsuit
If the water is cold, wear a wetsuit. Wetsuits are made of thick rubber. They keep your body warm in cold water. Wetsuits also protect your skin from cuts and scrapes. For warmer water, you may not need a wetsuit. But if it is cold, a wetsuit is very helpful.
Life Jacket Or Personal Flotation Device (pfd)
This is the most important item to wear. It keeps you safe if you fall in the water. Even if you know how to swim, wear a life jacket. The life jacket should be Coast Guard-approved. It must fit your body well. A good fit means it will stay on and help you float.
Additional Tips for What to Wear
Besides the basic clothes, here are some tips for new riders.
- Sunscreen: Apply waterproof sunscreen to all skin areas.
- Hat or Cap: Use a hat to protect your face from the sun.
- Water Shoes: Optional but good for foot protection.
- Gloves: Some use gloves to help grip the rope.
Sunscreen
Sunburn can spoil your fun. Use sunscreen with high SPF. Apply it before you go out on the water. Make sure it is waterproof. Reapply every two hours or after swimming.
Hat Or Cap
A hat or cap can protect your face and eyes. Choose one that fits well. It should not fall off easily. Some hats have straps to keep them on.
Water Shoes
Water shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks or shells. They also help you keep balance on slippery surfaces. Water shoes are not always needed but good for rocky areas.
Gloves
Gloves can help you hold the rope better. They stop your hands from getting sore. Choose gloves made for water sports. These gloves dry quickly and fit tight.
Credit: monstertower.com
How to Choose Clothes Based on Weather and Water
Think about the weather and water temperature before dressing.
| Water Temperature | Clothing Suggestion | Additional Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Warm (above 75°F / 24°C) | Swimwear and rash guard | Use sunscreen and wear a life jacket |
| Cool (60-75°F / 15-24°C) | Swimwear, rash guard, and light wetsuit | Wear a life jacket and apply sunscreen |
| Cold (below 60°F / 15°C) | Full wetsuit with booties and gloves | Life jacket is a must for safety |
Credit: monstertower.com
What Not to Wear Wakesurfing
Some clothes are not good for wakesurfing. Avoid these to stay safe and comfortable:
- Loose clothes that can get caught in the board or rope
- Regular T-shirts that get heavy when wet
- Heavy shoes or sandals that do not dry fast
- Jewelry or watches that can break or cause injury
Summary: What Should a New Rider Wear?
Here is a quick list for new wakesurfers:
- Coast Guard-approved life jacket
- Comfortable swimwear or boardshorts
- Rash guard for skin protection
- Wetsuit if water is cold
- Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
- Optional water shoes and gloves
Final Thoughts
Wakesurfing is exciting and fun. Wearing the right clothes helps you enjoy more. It keeps you safe and comfortable. Always wear your life jacket first. Choose clothes that fit well and let you move easily. Dress for the weather and water temperature. Now you are ready to ride the wave and have fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
What To Wear When Wakesurfing?
Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, comfortable boardshorts or swimwear, and a rash guard or wetsuit for protection and flexibility.
How To Wake Surf For Beginners?
Start by wearing a life jacket and comfortable swimwear. Hold a short wakesurf rope. Place your back foot near the board’s tail, front foot forward. Let the boat create a steady wake. Balance on the board and gradually release the rope to surf the wave.
Is Wakeboarding Hard For Beginners?
Wakeboarding can be challenging for beginners but becomes easier with proper lessons and the right-sized board. Practice improves balance quickly.
Do You Have To Wear A Lifejacket While Wakesurfing?
Wearing a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket while wakesurfing is essential for safety. It provides buoyancy if you fall. Always wear a properly fitting lifejacket, especially for beginners or in deep water. Safety regulations often require it on most watersports boats.