Best Kneeboards for Family Fun on the Water

Kneeboards are essential for having fun in the water and are a major part of many water sports. However, having the right equipment is essential for kneeboarding or else you could get hurt. On the surface, all kneeboards look the same, a board with a rope attached to them. Yet, there are many specific types of kneeboards and different materials that you need to be aware of. Here’s the buyer’s guide for the best kneeboard in 2021 so you can make an informed decision and pick the one best for you.

Material

One of the most important things to keep in mind when buying a kneeboard is the material that it is made out of. Traditional materials that are economical usually lead to heavier boards. These are what most beginners prefer as they are only just starting.

Lighter yet durable materials are more expensive and favored by professionals. The core of the kneeboard is made of foam or PU whereas the outside shell is fiberglass.

Professional boards have the same type of core but a fiberglass-graphite amalgam for the shell. This not only reduces the weight of the board but makes it more durable and enhances performance, as well.

Type

Kneeboards are of different types. Depending on the type of kneeboard you are looking for, the things to look into differ. Here are the most common types:

Recreational Kneeboards

Recreational kneeboards are used by beginners and others for everyday recreational fun. They make great practice boards as well. Since they are built using rotational molding, they are quite flat towards the edges.

Being thick and buoyant, they float well for those prone to toppling over. Recreational boards are made in a way that they offer more control and easy turns to beginners. They are soft compared to competitive boards. Some designs include fins that can help with turning.

Competitive Kneeboards

Competitive kneeboards are more expensive and have a high-quality build. They are thinner, sturdier, and lighter than recreational ones. They have relatively sharp outlines which make them cut through water, aiding in quick turns and tricks.

Being lighter and less buoyant, you should go for this type of board if you've mastered your balance and are suited to deep-water sports. Instead of rotational molding, these boards are made of compressed molding instead.

Rope

The ropes on a kneeboard are extremely important for the safety of the user. Unlike water skiing or waterboarding, kneeboards use ropes of varying qualities. This is because the rope needs to be able to support them and aid the kneeboarders’ tricks. If you know what qualities are desired in a rope for kneeboarding, you will be able to pick a better board.

No-Stretch Ropes

No stretch ropes are inelastic ropes made from a material known as Spectra. Since the rope does not stretch, it pairs perfectly with kneeboarding. On top of that, it is highly durable as well, so regular use is unlikely to wear it out. This rope is waterproof and doesn’t tire out the user during tricks.

Low-Stretch Ropes

As the name suggests, low stretch ropes are slightly elastic but not enough that they’d be a hindrance. They’re usually made of polyethylene or a mix of it with other materials. Since the rope is only slightly elastic, recreational players tend to choose it because of its value for money factor.

All-in-One Ropes

All-in-one ropes are also known as multi-purpose ropes. They are just elastic enough to be used for kneeboarding whilst also being handy for all sorts of water sports. Youngsters who are into a variety of watersports prefer this type of rope as it gives them versatility.

Build

Kneeboards come in different builds depending on which kind you're looking to buy. There are certain additions to the general structure of the kneeboard that make a world of a difference once the kneeboarder is in the water. Two important features are:

Fins

Fins help a board cut through the water and make it easier to steer the kneeboard. Most competitive boards have fins for better direction. Although most recreational boards do not have them, they are a useful addition to the standard board. If you can find a recreational board with fins, opt for it.

Rocker

The amount of curve on the underside of a kneeboard is known as the rocker.. Boards with a bigger rocker tend to be easier to turn and control whereas boards with a rocker that is flatter tend to have more speed. Beginners prefer boards with a bigger rocker whereas professionals prefer a flatter rocker.

Style

The style of the board is another important aspect that many kneeboarders overlook when choosing one. Depending on what you want to use the board for, you have to choose between a trick board and a slalom board.

Trick boards have curved edges and are rounder at the bottom. This makes them easier to use for tricks. Slalom boards have sharp edges that make turning at fast speeds easier for the user. Recreational board users often prefer the trick board style.

Best Kneeboard in 2021 - FAQs

Kneeboarding seems like an easy sport for beginners but when they try it out, it can be way different from what they imagined. This makes them especially vulnerable to many questions, so here are some of the most common FAQs for the best kneeboards in 2021.

Are there different sizes of kneeboards for children and adults?

Yes, traditionally kneeboards for children are a little smaller and thicker than those for adults. It is important to keep upgrading as you hone your skill on the board.

What kind of kneeboard is best for beginners

For beginners, you should look for a lightweight recreational trick board with fins. It will help with learning both tricks and turns. Competitive boards are difficult for beginners to master, so steer clear of them.

Can kneeboards be modified to enhance performance?

It is possible to modify kneeboards to enhance their performance but it is not recommended, especially if you are a beginner. Drastic modifications can cause serious injury and accidents to the user.