A waveski is a surf craft designed to ride waves while seated, and combines the paddle power of a kayak with the manoeuvrability and performance of a surfboard. They handle very easily on a wave, in much the same way as a surf board, but instead you sit on top of the ski and turn with body movements and a paddle. Surfers are strapped on with a seatbelt and their feet secured by foot straps. The paddle propels the surfer onto the waves where they can do similar manoeuvres to stand up surfing. Now when it comes to fitness, waveski surfing is guaranteed to give you a good upper body and cardiovascular workout. It’s also ideal for anyone with knee or ankle injuries that rule out stand up surfing. So whether you’re male or female, a beginner or someone who simply enjoys the excitement of riding big waves, there’s a waveski to suit everyone. C
To make the transition into this sport looking like a pro, selecting the right waveski for you is all important, and the following factors should be taken into account: • Weight and size - The length and width of a waveski relates to body height and weight. So the smaller you are and the less you weigh, and the better you become, the smaller the ski. However, I would recommend purchasing a larger ski when starting out, as this will help with stability and staying on the ski for longer whilst surfing. Then as you progress and get fitter, you can start to look at smaller, more manoeuvreable boards.
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• Height - It is imperative to sit right on the waveski. So the distance from the seat to your feet is of the utmost importance, as sitting with your knees bent too high or low is uncomfortable, and will certainly contribute towards the unstableness of your craft. The ideal position for your legs is one to one-andhalf fists lengths between the back of the knee and top of the board, while sitting in the seat pan with your feet in the foot well under the straps and belt on. The knees should be slightly bent. You should be able to pull your feet out easily to hang over the sides of the ski, and you need to be able to lean forward with the belt on. Ensuring a proper fit can also assist stressed muscles when surfing for long periods of time.
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