7 Best Kneeboards for Beginners

Kneeboarding is a fun and thrilling watersport. It’s fun for all ages, and, it provides a great starting place for beginners of all ages. To get started, all you’ll need is a sweet body of water, some gear, and a great can-do attitude. A kneeboarder is pulled by a towboat, holding on to a handle and rope that is connected to the boat. There are even kneeboards that allow riders to connect the handle to the front of the kneeboard, so they don’t even need to hang on! Riders sit on their knees and secure their legs using a strap. Some kneeboarders just enjoy riding along the water while being pulled behind the boat. Other riders like to learn how to do challenging tricks. It doesn’t take a willing learner long to learn new techniques and tricks. If you have the right equipment, you can master kneeboarding in no time.

Is Kneeboarding Easier for an Introduction to Watersports?

Kneeboarding is a fun option, often considered by those who love being on the water. Novices and children don’t usually want to start with other more challenging sports like wakeboarding or waterskiing. Kneeboarding is a great introduction for beginners since it offers the perfect middle ground. With the right equipment, you can learn to do tricks, learn new techniques, and eventually master balancing on your knees. Having the right kneeboard doesn’t guarantee you’ll never fall, but it can help ensure you’ll have a blast on the water.

How to Choose the Right Kneeboard

Type of Kneeboard

Kneeboards come in two main types – recreational and competitive. The main difference is their build. Recreational kneeboards are designed for casual users. They provide smooth, easy rides for novices. A recreational kneeboard has wide edges that make them easier to turn. Their soft material is rather forgiving, which is great for those just getting started in the sport. They are also cheaper than competitive kneeboards.

By design, competitive kneeboards are made for advanced riders who plan to compete. Their design is thinner and lighter than recreational models. This allows faster speeds, greater control, and more impressive tricks. Competitive kneeboards are less buoyant, which allows riders to take off in deeper waters. They do not double as a flotation device, so only strong swimmers should use them.

Kneeboard Style

Kneeboards also vary in style. The style influences the shape, design, and performance of the board. Your experience level and intended use will help determine which style is right for you. A slalom-style kneeboard is usually for general kneeboarding activities and some specific types of competitive events. The angular design means more surface area is in contact with the water, so the rider enjoys more stability and control. A trick kneeboard has a curvy, flat bottom and a rounder design. Their design is better suited for performing tricks and competitive kneeboarding.

Kneeboard Material

Most manufacturers use the same materials for constructing kneeboards as they use to make paddleboards and water skis. There are not a lot of options; however, your choice can influence the kneeboard’s performance and its final price. The kneeboard’s core is what provides buoyancy and stability. Cores are usually made from some type of foam, such as polyurethane. Foam materials are easy to shape around, which is what the shell or outside does. The outer shell must be the proper shape and durable. The most popular material used for the hard shell is fiberglass. It is inexpensive and lightweight. High-end kneeboards combine fiberglass with graphite for increased durability.

Fins and Rockers

There are other factors to consider when looking at kneeboards. You will need to decide if you want a board with fins. Most recreational boards have fins since they make steering easier. Fins are not as commonly used on advanced or competitive boards since they tend to provide some resistance that slows you down. You’ll also want to look at the rocker number on the board. A higher rocker number means the board will ride slower, but it’s also easier to handle. Lower rocker numbers mean the board is faster, as well as more challenging to ride.

Quality

When it comes to kneeboards, quality is everything. It’s best to become familiar with some of the top kneeboard brands. You can then take it to the water with complete confidence. You’ll know the kneeboard is not going to let you down.

7 Best Kneeboards for Beginners

Once you’ve got a decent grasp of the basics, you’re ready to start shopping for a quality kneeboard. The most important factor is finding one that works for you or for the riders who are planning on using the kneeboard. Take a look at these top 7 best kneeboards for beginners. We’re sure you’re going to find one you love!

MAXFLO Integrated Kneeboard

This premium kneeboard from MAXFLO offers the latest in aerodynamic design. The thin profile and rigid build offer riders exceptional performance. At 50 by 20 inches, the kneeboard is a great size for older children, teenagers, and adults. Marine-grade materials used in the board’s construction give it corrosion-resistant properties, so it’s sure to provide years of enjoyment.

SereneLife Kneeboard with Strap and Hook

The SereneLife kneeboard is designed to be lightweight at just under 9 pounds, so it doesn’t slow you down. It’s the perfect size to fit in a boat box or in your vehicle. The adjustable strap ensures every rider is held to the board snugly. The durable build ensures the board is strong and durable for competitive or leisure use. Knee slots are designed to provide riders of any age a comfortable fit.

Leader Accessories Kneeboard with Integrated Hook

Suitable for riders of all ages, from kids to teens and adults, this kneeboard from Leader Accessories is the perfect size. The hook is molded in to provide sturdy, hands-free starts every time. The beveled edge design allows for fast cuts and water stability. Any skill level can enjoy this high-quality kneeboard with a heavy-duty adjustable, padded strap.

Hydroslide Revolution Kneeboard

This kneeboard from Hydroslide Revolution features a classic spoon shape that provides easy rides and smooth transitions.The thin profile is aesthetic, but it also provides great performance for first-time riders to pros. The 3-inch padded strap ensures the rider’s knees remain securely in the deep, padded knee wells.

O’Brien Voodoo Kneeboard

The Voodoo kneeboard from O’Brien is designed for performance. The board’s four quad-molded fins provide more tracking control, while the underside’s design helps make transitions smooth and fast. The rider’s knees sit comfortably in the cushy kneewells and are strapped into place using an adjustable padded strap. An integrated, heavy-duty hook ensures performance and durability.

O’Brien Radica Kneeboards

The Radica from O’Brien is designed for use by adults. It features a durable integrated hook so riders’ hands are free to secure their knees using the adjustable, padded strap. Padded knee wells keep the knees comfortable while riding. The quad-molded fins help keep the board going on a straight line.

O’Brien Freeboard V2 Kneeboard

The Freeboard provides riders with extreme versatility since riders have the option of standing on the board instead of kneeling. Handles on either side of the board make this a great board for beginners who are just learning how to ride. Dual molded fins enhance the board’s stability and tracking capabilities. Beveled edges provide a smoother ride, and padding keeps riders comfortable.

Get ready to grab one of the best kneeboards for beginners and head to a body of water near you! At WakeScout Worldwide Water Sports, we want to help you find your next water adventure. Use our handy online tool to find your next watersport destination.