Inverts: Once you’re comfortable with grabs and spins, inverts will come almost naturally. Keep in mind that this type of trick refers to any manoeuvre performed in the air where your head is the lowest point of your body. Riders typically have three axes to rotate on: one running from head to toe, another passing through the navel, and the third going from hip to hip. With this in mind, the only thing left is to figure out how to use each axis and pull off spectacular inverts. This category includes moves like the Backroll, where you’ll defy gravity by performing a backward sideways flip. Meanwhile, the HS Frontflip involves a forward sideways rotation. You can ask your wakeboard instructor about tricks like the TS Backroll, TS Frontflip, Frontroll, Tantrum, and more.
Raley Tricks: This basically involves making your body leave its vertical position with the help of the handle. It’s related to the previous group (inverts), but in this case, there are no rotations. The main advantage of mastering this manoeuvre is the ability to combine it with endless grabs and spins, which are useful for scoring higher in competitions. The possibilities are endless—both the Heelside Raley and Toeside Raley can be combined with grabs, s-bends, spins, or 911s—so it’s best to consult a specialist who can explain them all.
Handle Pass Inverts: This group of tricks is more complex, combining inverts with spins—both frontside and backside, with or without handle passes, etc. Remember, there are six basic inverts: Tantrum, HS Backroll, HS Frontflip, TS Backroll, TS Frontflip, and Frontroll.
To practise wakeboarding and pull off impressive tricks, whether recreationally or competitively, you must keep specific safety measures in mind.
The first and most important is choosing a professional wakeboard school with top-tier instructors and equipment. Always wear a neoprene wetsuit (to avoid getting cold) and a helmet to protect your head in case of a fall. Your board should match your skill level—otherwise, you won’t handle it well and could injure yourself.
Don’t forget that the boat driver must know what they’re doing, as your safety is essentially in their hands, and they’ll need to control the speed at which you want to ride.
If you still have doubts, get in touch with a wakeboarding school, and they’ll provide all the additional information you need.
