Kneeboards: 5 Fast Facts

Fact #1. Unlike modern day surfing, kneeboarding can be considered a newcomer to the sporting world. The first commercially produced kneeboards weren't available until the 1950s. These first models were designed for wave riding. Nowadays, behind towed behind a speed boat is associated with the sport. Competition kneeboarding started to develop in the early 1980s. Events included wake crossing and slalom. The most popular event was called the Flip-off. This is when a rider tried to complete as many flips as possible in twenty seconds.

Fact #2. The original kneeboard was manufactured from molded fiberglass. This gave it a neutral buoyancy. A neoprene pad covered the deck to provide cushioning. There was also a Velcro strap designed to go over the knee. This kept the rider firmly on board. A new approach to crafting boards came about in the 1970s. Instead of the fiberglass construction, a plastic shell with a foam filling was used.

Fact #3. The equipment required for kneeboarding includes a tow rope and a boat that can go about 15 to 20 miles per hour. There are two basic grips to use for kneeboards. The palms-down grip is when the hands face downward while holding the ski rope. The baseball bat grip is when kneeboarders hold the handle just like a baseball bat.

Fact #4. Recreational kneeboards are generally roto-molded. This is a readily available and low cost manufacturing method. They also have soft, wide edges. This gives beginner riders more control and makes it easier to turn. Recreational boards are usually thick and extremely buoyant. They can double as a flotation device in case you fall off. Depending on the type of board, it may have bottom fins to aid in turning.

Fact #5. Competitive kneeboards are more expensive. They are compression-molded, which makes them more durable and better suited to high speed runs. They're also thin and lightweight, with sharp edges designed for tight cornering and radical tricks. Because they're thinner, they're less buoyant than recreational boards. This is so high level riders can dig deeper into the water for better starts and trick launches.