Flex is one of the most important factors in deciding which wake boot is right for you.
The flex of wakeboard boots can vary dramatically between models from stiff to very flexible. The flex of your boots is personal preference. Some riders like to feel locked into stiff boots with a lot of ankle support while other riders like a softer flex which gives them the ability to tweak their wakeboard in different directions during tricks.
Similar to snowboard boots, the stiffer your wake boot, the better it is for carving and speed. The softer it is, the more maneuverability you will have for tricks. Check out the stiffness rating on product details pages when available.
Most often beginner bindings are more flexible (softer) than bindings geared towards advanced riders.
Controlling your wakeboard with loose fitting boots is like trying to type with mittens on. Your wakeboard boots should be snug but not so tight that they are painful. Most boots are designed to fit a range of shoe sizes, while some higher end boots are single sizes. Many wakeboard boots now feature heat moldable liners that significantly improve fit and make getting them off and on a lot easier, eliminating the need for old school boot lubricant. Listen to your feet and refer to size charts whenever possible!
Wakeboard boots have many features you will want to consider when choosing a new boot. For the best fit, many riders choose to have their own set of boots even if they share a wakeboard. Remember, boots may easily be swapped out on the boat between rides if this is the case.
System bindings take a nod from snowboard bindings. Utilizing a highback frame with ratchet straps across the ankle and toes, System bindings take a specifically designed boot (no, you can't use your snowboard boots), and allow riders to further customize fit and engage the entire leg — rather than just heels and toes.
These are a common, simple, and efficient system.
These are another common system found on wake boots. And once again, no laces to tie! Gummy straps in particular have gotten very popular in recent years due to their ability to quickly and securely customize the tightness of your fit.
Boa® is designed for speed and strength, incorporating aircraft grade stainless steel laces with a dial ratchet closure. No laces to tie! Boa® can also be found on products such as cycling shoes and snowboard boots.
Almost all modern wakeboards use standard M6 mounting hardware and 6" binding plates that are universally compatible across all brands. The only exception is Liquid Force 4D bindings. These bindings are only compatible with wakeboards equipped with a Flextrack, like many modern Liquid Force boards. Liquid Force boards with Flextrack mounting are compatible with all wakeboard bindings.
For information about wakeboard and binding compatibility before the universal change to 6" boot plates and M6 mounting hardware, see our Wakeboard Binding Compatibility guide.
Duck feet! Stand comfortably on the floor and do a squat. Now think about the outward direction your feet and knees are pointed. Position your boots on your board with the boot toes slightly tweaked out toward the tips of the wakeboard. The angle at which you set your duck stance varies depending on your preference, but your stance should be completely symmetrical. This will not only give you a firm feel and control of your wakeboard, but it will also help you avoid injury. Most boots now list angle increments on the plates. A default angle of 12 degrees out with boots placed just wide of your shoulders is a good place to start until you develop your own stance preference.
There is no standard formula to achieve a correct stance. Two wakeboarders of identical heights and with similar riding styles may prefer different stances. In general, the taller you are the wider your stance. The most important aspect of the stance is how comfortable the rider feels. Just like sleeping, comfort translates to performance in wakeboarding.
All wakeboard binding screws share the same universal 1/4" thread but not all companies use the same length screws. When mounting a binding without the factory screws, be sure that the screw is the correct length. The screws should be shorter than the thickness of the wakeboard and use a plastic washer to protect your binding plate. We do not suggest mounting your wakeboard bindings without the factory screws, but it can be done. Using a screw that is too long can result in a loose connection between your wakeboard and boots and damage your board and void a manufacturer warranty.
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