Wakeboard Trick: Kicker Perspective – Everything to Know
Wakeboarding, an exhilarating water sport that combines the thrill of surfing, snowboarding, and skateboarding, has captivated adrenaline seekers for years. One of the most exciting elements of wakeboarding is learning and perfecting new tricks. Among these tricks, those performed using a kicker ramp (often called simply a “kicker”) add an entirely new dimension of airtime and style. Whether you’re a seasoned wakeboarder or new to the sport, understanding the role of a kicker and how to leverage it to pull off impressive tricks can take your skills to the next level.
In this article, we’ll explore everything about wakeboard kicker tricks, from what a kicker is, to some pro-level tips, equipment specs, and pricing details to help you get started.
What is a Wakeboard Kicker?
A wakeboard kicker is a floating or stationary ramp placed in the water, designed to launch riders into the air to perform aerial tricks. It’s similar in function to a skateboarding ramp, providing the boost needed for bigger jumps and advanced maneuvers. Kickers can be found at wake parks, where they’re a key feature in trick-based competitions, but some experienced wakeboarders install kickers in lakes or private bodies of water for practice.
There are different types of kickers that vary in size, shape, and launch angle. Riders choose kickers based on the type of trick they aim to perform and their level of experience.
Types of Kickers
- Small Kickers: Great for beginners or those working on basic grabs and rotations. These have a gentler incline, offering less height but a more forgiving landing.
- Medium Kickers: The sweet spot for intermediate riders. Medium-sized kickers give riders enough height to practice more complex spins or flips, but without the intensity of a large ramp.
- Large Kickers: Meant for advanced riders. These ramps offer the greatest air and hang time, enabling pro-level tricks like double rotations, flips, and advanced grabs.
Why Use a Kicker for Tricks?
Wakeboarding on a smooth water surface is exciting, but adding obstacles like kickers takes it to the next level. Here’s why kickers are essential for trick progression:
- Increased Air Time: Kickers launch riders higher than they can get from just the wake. This extra height allows for more time in the air to complete rotations and complex tricks.
- Consistency: At cable wake parks, kickers provide a consistent feature that allows you to refine your skills, as compared to unpredictable wake conditions.
- Learning New Tricks: Kickers offer a predictable boost, making them great for learning spins, grabs, and flips. With enough practice, even beginners can start attempting intermediate tricks.
- Versatility: Kickers provide options. You can choose to pop off the ramp for a smaller, controlled jump or go full-speed for maximum airtime.
Popular Wakeboard Kicker Tricks
1. Tail Grab
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- How to Perform: As you approach the kicker, bend your knees and prepare to launch off. At the peak of your jump, reach back with your rear hand and grab the tail of your board. Hold the grab for a moment, release, and prepare for a smooth landing.
2. 180 Spin
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- How to Perform: Hit the kicker at a slight angle, and as you launch off, rotate your body 180 degrees in the air. Stay balanced during the spin, and spot your landing to make sure you touch down correctly.
3. Backroll
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- How to Perform: This is a flip trick that involves launching off the kicker and rotating backward over your shoulder. A backroll requires commitment and balance, and a large kicker makes this trick more achievable for advanced riders.
4. Raley
- Difficulty Level: Pro
- How to Perform: One of the most iconic wakeboarding tricks, the Raley involves launching off the kicker at speed and extending your body parallel to the water while your board swings behind you. Bring the board back under your feet just before landing.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Kicker Tricks
- Focus on Speed: Approach the kicker with enough speed to get a clean launch, but not so fast that you lose control.
- Body Position: Keep your knees bent and your body centered over the board as you approach the ramp. Stand tall at the lip of the kicker for maximum height.
- Use Your Edges: Control your approach by using the edges of your wakeboard. Cutting into the kicker at the right angle is key to controlling your jump.
- Spot Your Landing: Always know where you’re going to land. Look ahead, spot your landing zone, and adjust your body for a smooth touchdown.
- Practice: Mastery comes with repetition. Start with smaller kickers and gradually work your way up to larger ones as you gain confidence and control.
Wakeboard Kicker Specs & Pricing
If you’re thinking about purchasing or using a wakeboard kicker at your local wake park, it helps to know the specs and pricing of various models available on the market. Below are a few examples of popular kicker models:
Unit Parktech Small Kicker
- Dimensions: 2.3 meters long, 1 meter wide, and 0.5 meters tall
- Materials: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) surface for durability and smooth gliding
- Price: $2,000 – $2,500
Liquid Force Large Kicker
- Dimensions: 3.5 meters long, 1.2 meters wide, and 1 meter tall
- Materials: Marine-grade aluminum and UV-stabilized plastic
- Price: $3,500 – $4,000
RADAR Kicker Ramp
- Dimensions: 2.7 meters long, 1 meter wide, and 0.75 meters tall
- Materials: Composite construction with a slick top surface for easy launches
- Price: $1,800 – $2,200
Prices vary based on the material, size, and construction quality of the kicker. If you’re visiting a wake park, however, you won’t need to purchase a kicker – park access fees usually include the use of obstacles like kickers, which range from $25 to $60 per day depending on the location.
Final Thoughts
Wakeboarding with a kicker adds new dimensions of fun and progression to the sport. Whether you’re working on your first 180 spin or aiming to land a backroll, understanding the kicker’s role in boosting your performance is key. With the right equipment and dedication, even beginners can work up to advanced tricks. Practice, perseverance, and proper technique will unlock the world of aerial maneuvers that only a kicker can provide.
So, grab your board, hit the nearest wake park, and get ready to fly!
Happy Boating!
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