Regardless of your skill-level, having the right wakesurf board will dramatically improve your riding. In this article, I’ll share my top ten picks of the best wakesurf boards of 2023. I’ve hand-selected these boards based on their construction, design, stability, and maneuverability so that you can find the perfect board to fit your riding style.
So let’s get right to it. Here are seven excellent wakesurf boards to check out in 2023.
Best Wakesurf Boards Overall
Liquid Force Space Pod Wakesurf Board 2023
The Liquid Force Space Pod Wakesurf Board is excellent for intermediate and advanced riders looking for a high-performance board that can take their riding to the next level.
Here is a quick overview video that covers all of the features of this board.
This is one of the highest-end boards packed with so many tech features to help you ride that it will make you drool. That said, the primary features of the Space Pod are its narrow, easy to maneuver shape and extremely lightweight yet incredibly responsive core.
The Space Pod features an EPS stringer core with Liquid Force’s Exclusive Carbon/Innegra deck. The Carbon/Innegra Reinforced Deck makes the board incredibly responsive. Additionally, this board features a Single to Double Concave Hull that is reinforced with carbon tape. Here is a quick diagram of the Double Concave Hull to show its shape and water pressure zones.
The main benefit of the Double Concave is that it allows the board to glide effortlessly while providing the ideal balance of durability, buoyancy, flotation, and maneuverability.
This board also features a V Tail improves the board’s maneuverability and swift turns, granting it more power to traverse over flatter or softer areas of the wave. Additionally, Liquid Force added a carbon fin quad setup to give you the ultimate control, performance, and traction. Here is a closer look at the quad fin setup.
To round out the Space Pod, Liquid Force added a double groove EVA foam Surf Traction Pad that provides grip, cushioning, and dampness to your ride.
If you’re looking for a responsive board that will improve your riding and last you for years to come, get the Liquid Force Space Pod.
Pros:
- One of the highest end boards you can buy with features that will make you drool.
- It’s extremely light and durable
- Responsive / Loads of pop
- Durable / These will last you for years
Cons:
- This isn’t the most beginner-friendly board.
- The carbon and high tech features make this one of the more expensive boards on the list.
Sizes:
4’2″, 4’6″, 4’10”, 5’2″
See the Right Size Liquid Force Space Pod for You
| Length (ft/in) | Weight Range (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 4’2" | Up to 170 |
| 4’6" | 130 – 200 |
| 4’10" | 150 – 210 |
| 5’2" | 190 – 250 |
Best Beginner Wakesurf Boards Under $300
Connelly Stratus Wakesurf Board 2023
The Connelly Stratus wakesurf board is the perfect choice for beginner riders looking to progress their skills quickly and safely. Here is an image that shows the core features of the Stratus wakesurf board.
The Stratus features an incredibly soft, from tip-to-tail EVA foam construction that makes the board safer and makes it easier to gain confidence learning tricks. If you fall onto the Stratus or if it hits your shins, its soft protective layer will prevent you from getting hurt.
The Stratus wakesurfer is lightweight yet durable, and its cruiser shape offers a thicker profile and more rounded rail than a hybrid for a stable, comfortable ride. This board comes with two 3.6″ fins which will provide extra traction and stability, while the square tail gives plenty of surface area for a stable platform.
The construction of the Status is an Expanded Polystyrene Foam (EPS) core with a full-length wood stringer. The combination of foam and wood makes this board feel fast and responsive while still being playful enough for beginner riders who want to try more difficult tricks with minimal consequences.
If you’re looking for the perfect beginner board under $300, get the Connelly Stratus and get out on the water.
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners – Soft top that prevents injuries to the rider and scratches to your boat
- Light / Durable
- A lot of board for the money
Cons:
- This will feel too playful for advanced riders.
Sizes:
4’6″
See the Right Size Connelly Stratus for You
| Length (ft/in) | Weight Range (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 4’6" | One Size Fits All |
The Lightest Wakesurf Board
Hyperlite Ranger Wakesurf Board 2023
The Ranger from Hyperlite is created with a full woven carbon Durashell making it one the lightest wakesurf boards you can buy. This higher-end board is known for its lightweight, responsive, explosive snappy nature yet looser surfy feel. The Ranger offers flexibility with its fin configurations that allow you to ride it in either skim or surf style board. Altogether, this is an outstanding board loaded with tech features to improve your riding.
Here is an overview video of the Hyperlite Ranger showcasing its primary features.
The Ranger was designed to feel faster, floatier, and more versatile than most other boards on this list. The Hyperlite Ranger features a full-machine EVA traction pad with a corduroy finish, giving it exceptional grip and stability in the surf.
The Hyperlite Ranger has a specially designed rail system and a 3-fin setup. Here is a closer look at it.
This fin set up makes it simple to switch between skim and surf styles giving you the freedom to ride however you like. With the Hyperlite Ranger Wakesurf Board 2023, you have the power to explore the waves in any way you want to.
If you’re looking for a lightweight board packed with tech features, check out the Hyperlite Ranger Wakesurf board before it sells out.
Pros:
- Lightest wakesurf board – Full woven carbon DuraShell construction
- Insanely Durable
- Feels surfy yet snappy
- Hybrid Rail Design
- Grip – Machined EVA Traction – Corduroy
Cons:
- This is one of the most expensive boards on this list (for good reason, it rips).
Sizes:
4’5″, 4’10”
See the Right Size Hyperlite Ranger for You
| Length (ft/in) | Weight Range (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 4′ 5" | Up to 185 lbs |
| 4′ 10" | Up to 250lbs |
Best Beginner Wakesurf Boards Under $500
Hyperlite Landlock Wakesurf Board 2023
The Hyperlite Landlock wakesurf board was designed to be an extremely universal shape that is perfect for any rider, boat, and wave size. This is the perfect board for any beginner rider looking for a high-performance, durable longboard-style wakesurf that can truly do it all.
Here is a quick overview video of the Landlock Wakesurf board.
The Landlock Wakesurf offers beginners a stable platform to learn while still being fast and maneuverable. One of the first features of the Landlock that you will notice is its overall shape. The Landlock features a beginner-friendly rolled edge profile. The rolled edge profile means this board has a turned-up (beveled) hybrid-style surf rail that runs from the center of the board through the tip. The combination of the hybrid rail with the more rounded shape of the nose gives this board a looser and floatier feeling ride. The more aggressive angles in the board’s tail give the board its balanced, more responsive, in-control feel. Altogether, this is an easy-to-ride shape that riders of all types will enjoy cruising for hours down, moving up and down the face of the wave.
The base of the board has a slight concave at the tip to allow water to flow through the board’s body. The Landlock has a three-fin design. The fins offer some additional grip and response without it overpowering the board. The Landlock’s swallow tail profile works in combination with the fins to allow the board to feel fast and controlled down the line while allowing it to turn on a dime whenever you need to.
This board features a mold eva foam traction pad. The foam feels very soft underfoot while still providing the perfect level of grip. One noticeable feature is that the eva traction pad features a slight kicktail. This allows beginner riders to easily know where they are on the board as well as a little extra pop for shuv-its and airs.
If you’re looking for a versatile board that is perfect to learn on and can accommodate any rider and any boat, get the Hyperlite Landlock Wakesurf board.
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners – This is a board that is perfect for any rider and any type of wave. Simply get on it and cruise.
Cons:
- It is a large board, so it won’t be the best option for learning airs.
Sizes:
5’9″
See the Right Size Hyperlite Landlock for You
| Length (ft/in) | Weight Range (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 5′ 9" | Up to 300lbs |
The Best Skim Style Wakesurf Board
Ronix Flyweight Skimmer Wakesurf Board 2023
The Ronix Flyweight Skimmer Wakesurf Board 2023 is perfect for intermediate riders looking want to take their riding and trick selection to the next level. This extremely lightweight skim style board is designed specifically for its speed, agility, pop, and power.
Here is a quick overview video that highlights the features of the Ronix Flyweight Skimmer.
The main features of this board are its lightweight core and minimalist design. The Flyweight Skimmer’s lightweight surf foam core delivers unparalleled control and responsiveness.
The Ronix Flyweight tends to sit a little deeper in the water due to its shape. Being deeper allows you to get those deep, controlled carves. This board always feels in control, even while you are charging down the line. Additionally, the Flyweight Skimmer features hard rails running for excellent stability and a single removable fin for additional control whenever it is needed.
The board’s profile features a slight rocker in the tail and nose. This profile makes it a little more forgiving to land your tricks. If your spin is slightly off-axis, the rockered tips allow the board to ease the board back into the water for a smoother, controlled transition.
Overall, this board does an exceptional job staying in the wave. It offers speed when you need it, feels responsive and controlled while carving, and has an extraordinary amount of pop.
If you’re looking for a high-performance skim style board to help you progress, look no further than the Ronix Flyweight Skimmer wakesurf board.
Pros:
- Lightest skim style wakesurf board
- Hard rails – speed and controlled feel
- Added grip – Grooved EVA Front / Rear Pad
- Pin tail – rides deeper in the water for controlled carves
Cons:
- This is not a good option for a beginner. If you already know how to ride, you will enjoy the tech features worked into this board. (Its just not the easiest to learn on.)
- This is one of the more expensive boards on this list
Sizes:
4’2″, 4’5″, 4’8″
See the Right Size Ronix Flyweight Skimmer for You
| Length (ft/in) | Weight Range (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 4′ 2 " | Up to 155 lbs |
| 4′ 5" | Up to 175 lbs |
| 4′ 8" | 155lbs + |
The Best Hybrid Style Wakesurf Board
Hyperlite Broadcast Wakesurf Board 2023
The Hyperlite Broadcast is the ultimate hybrid style wakesurf board for riders of all skill levels. This board offers an exceptional value and is packed with features all riders will love. Here is an overview video for the 2023 Hyperlite Broadcast hybrid style wakesurf board. The Hyperlite Broadcast has been one of the best selling wake surfboards on the Hyperlite line for a few years. The main reason for this is the board’s versatility and easy-to-ride rocker line. This is a board that caters to both beginners as well as advanced riders. The Broadcast features a dual concave design that allows water to pass through the three-fin configuration. The setup of the fins gives the Broadcast a fast yet loose feeling ride. The tail profile of the Broadcast is designed to offer an outstanding level of response and control. This board features a slight swallow tail that moves the pivot point closer to the rider’s back foot. It allows the rider to have total control when carving. One of the standout features of the Broadcast is its fully machined Eva pad. Usually, this would be a feature included in a more expensive board. It feels like a premium upgrade that allows riders to always know where the back of the board is while offering an incredible level of grip. The Broadcast’s wider width is another key feature that makes it stand out from other boards on this list. It’s also great for riders who are still working on their balance. The wider platform is easier to balance, and the rolled edge profile offers plenty of power while making it easier for newer riders to not catch an edge. This is an incredibly light and durable board thanks to Hyperlites, BioLite 3 core. The Broadcast’s layered glass was designed with a monocoque construction. This type of glass construction means the top and bottom fiberglass layers were molded into one seamless piece. This adds to the board’s durability by preventing delamination from side impacts. If you’re looking for a hybrid style wakesurf board that is easy to ride and is packed with features, get the Hyperlite Broadcast.
Pros:
- Hybrid style – Easy to ride / good for tricks
- Excellent value for under $500
- Great for riders of all skill levels
- Durable
Cons:
- There are faster boards on this list
- There are lighter boards on this list
Sizes:
4’8″, 5’4″
See the Right Size Hyperlite Broadcast for You
| Length (ft/in) | Weight Range (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 4′ 8" | Up to 190 lbs |
| 5′ 4" | Up to 250lbs |
The Best Surf Style Wakesurf Board
Liquid Force Quest Wakesurf Board 2023
The Liquid Force Quest Wakesurf Board offers the perfect combination of surf-style performance and versatility. This high-end wakesurfer is filled with high-tech features designed to take your wave riding to the next level. Here is an overview video of the Liquid Force Quest Wakesurf board.
The biggest selling feature of the Liquid Force Quest is its lightweight construction. This board’s core is made with an EPS foam and wood stringers. These give the board its classic surf-like feel. While additional carbon running through the board gives it its insanely lightweight maneuverability and explosive pop.
The crisp rails of the Quest are another unique feature that sets it apart from other wakesurf boards. Unlike completely rounded rails, the sharp edge of the Quest’s rails provides an additional level of grip and control on the wave. While beginners can easily ride and enjoy this board, the crisp rails make it an ideal board for advanced riders who want a board with some bite to help them push their limits. It’s an easy to ride board that offers a ton of grip.
The Quest’s fat tail is another standout feature that provides an exceptional amount of push, making it perfect for smaller wakes or riders who want to generate more speed on the wave. This board is equipped with a twin fin setup, which makes it looser than thruster or quad setups, and it still provides ample speed and control to get you where you need to be on the wave.
The EVA Surf Traction Pad on top of the Quest offers plenty of grip with some additional shock absorption. The added grip makes this board feel a little easier to ride. The twin fin setup can also make the board feel a little on the looser side. However, that loose feeling balances out nicely with the sharper edges. The Quest’s ability to grip and rip a carve while still feeling surfy is what gives its phenomenal unique feel.
The Liquid Force Quest is an outstanding surf style board for all riders. If you’re new to wakesurfing, this is also a great board for beginners who are just learning to carve. If you’re an advanced rider, this board will rip for you too. It is one of those boards that will grow with you as you progress. It has features that support every rider out there.
If you’re the type of wakesurfer looking for a board that can do it all exceptionally well, get the Liquid Force Quest Wakesurf board.
Pros:
- Surf Style – Good for carving and riding
- Good for all types of riders regardless of skill level
- Easy to ride / yet offers a ton of stability, grip, and response
- Durable and insanely lightweight
Cons:
- This is one of the more expensive / higher end boards on this list.
Sizes:
4’3″, 4’7″, 4’11”
See the Right Size Liquid Force Quest for You
| Length (ft/in) | Weight Range (lbs) |
|---|---|
| 4’3" | Up to 135 |
| 4’7" | 150 – 240 |
| 4’11" | 190 – 240 |
So there you have it. Here are the best wakesurf boards for the 2023 seasons.
- The Lightest Wakesurf Board: Hyperlite Ranger Wakesurf Board 2023
- The Best Skim Style Wakesurf Board: Ronix Flyweight Skimmer Wakesurf Board 2023
- The Best Hybrid Style Wakesurf Board : Hyperlite Broadcast Wakesurf Board 2023
- The Best Surf Style Wakesurf Board: Liquid Force Quest Wakesurf Board 2023
- Best Beginner Wakesurf Boards Under $300: Connelly Stratus 2023
- Best Beginner Wakesurf Boards Under $500: Hyperlite Landlock Wakesurf Board 2023
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, you’re sure to find a wakesurf board that’s perfect for you and your skill level. With the right board and a bit of practice, you will be charging down the line in no time.
Good luck out there.
Last Updated: April 22, 2023 by Steve Weber
Steve Weber
Steve Weber is the author and boardsport gear reviewer for Board of the World. He has been snowboarding for 26 years, skateboarding for 20, and is always looking for a new board sport gear to try out. When he is not riding or skating, he runs a marketing agency. Board of the World is Steve’s blog for skateboard and snowboard gear reviews. The blog’s goal is to help people find the right board for them and encourage people to have fun outside.
