Explained: The Basics of Wakeboard Rocker and Why It?s Important

Explained: The Basics of Wakeboard Rocker and Why It?s Important
By WakeOrigin.com on Saturday, June 07, 2008 @ 6:03 pm
There are many factors that determine how a wakeboard will perform, but without a doubt, rocker profile is one of the most prominent contributors to the overall feel of a wakeboard on the water. Understanding how different rocker shapes influence the way a wakeboard riders can be a huge advantage when it comes time to by your next wakeboard. So sit back and relax as we school you on wakeboard rocker. Basic Rocker Profiles Rocker is the amount of curvature in a board, from the center to the tip or tail (on modern symmetrical boards, the measurement is the same regardless of which end it's taken at). If you lay a wakeboard flat on the floor, the amount of rocker is how far off the ground the tip and tail sit. When it comes to wakeboard rocker, there are two basic outlines for the shape of a board: Continuous Rocker: One smooth bend from tip to tail, as if the board were a section of a very large circle. 3-Stage Rocker: Appears as though it is constructed from 3 flat planks joined together which results in a large flat spot at the tip and tail, and one under the rider's feet. Below is a brief summary of each type of rocker design, along with the more general pros and cons for that given profile. Of course every board will be different, but here what you can expect from a wakeboard based on it's rocker shape. Continue reading for a detailed explanation of continuous and 3-stage rocker boards.