The Trinidad hat was featured in our May issue as the prize for our Inbox section, and the winner was one lucky dog. You too can be a winner and the proud owner of a Heshbacks hat… Check them out here >>

About Heshbacks: Four years ago founder Nick Dorsey was given a hat that didn’t fit quite right. Instead of throwing it out or not wearing it he got crafty and made it his own. He wanted something home-made that would fit any size of head. He punctured a few holes in the back, ran a shoelace through to tie it up and the fit was perfect. Co-Owner Dylan Miller saw Nick’s idea; was hyped on it and suggested they start a company, 4 years later here we are…

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The Space Blanket is all about speed. In fact, this next-generation camber board from Ronix was designed with one goal — increased glide speed — and the Erik Ruck and Shota Tezuka pro model delivers with 30 percent less water resistance than its predecessor, the Bandwagon. Since it comes standard with Ronix’s lightest-ever core, the Space Blanket yields the least amount of swing weight possible, so you’ll spin faster, too.

Sizes: 134 cm, 137 cm, 141 cm

MSRP: $630

ronixwake.com

Completely redesigned for 2017, Slingshot’s new Shredtown and KTV boots sport a trio of all-new features. The new Gummy Strap closure system allows riders to tighten their boots to their heart’s content without sacrificing comfort. New Direct Connect soles jettison traditional base plates in favor of a lower profile, enhanced flex underfoot, and increased responsiveness. Finally, the new K9 mounting system lets you ­completely customize your stance.

MSRP: $460 (Shredtown); $399 (KTV)

slingshotsports.com

Someone at Jobe may have been watching a little too much True Detective,­ ­season one, because the ­teaser ­videos for the new Knox wakeboard look like they were filmed in ­Carcosa. The gloomy setting of the videos contrasts with the Knox’s most illuminating characteristic: a first-of-its-kind see-through ­rocker system. In addition to its clear calling card, the Knox features an ­aggressive three-stage ­rocker and a wider profile for a ­stable ride and tons of takeoff.

Sizes: 139 cm, 143 cm

MSRP: $500

jobesports.com

With an aggressive three-stage rocker and CWB’s super-­lightweight Pro Core with carbon-torsion tech, the new Dowdy ­wakeboard is the perfect fit for ­advanced riders chasing the go-huge, spin-for-days style of its namesake. The rocker ­delivers more straight-up pop than any board in the CWB line, the techy interior yields a snappy feel off the wake, and the spooned tip and tail reduce swing weight so you can add an extra 180.

Sizes: 136 cm, 142 cm

MSRP: $430

ridecwb.com

Anytime you opt for a comp vest over a USCG-approved life jacket, you’re choosing maximum mobility over ­potentially lifesaving flotation. This women’s comp vest from Body Glove has the former on lock, thanks to its super-flexible shell and segmented Aerolite foam construction. Just make sure you ride with a rescue crew, because this low-profile design isn’t guaranteed to keep you afloat should something go wrong.

MSRP: $100

bodyglove.com

Looking for a nice, mellow cruise? This is not the board for you. A hand-shaped carbon-­fiber and epoxy layup not only makes the Censor lightweight and durable, but snappy and responsive too. The ultrawide design and lightning-quick rocker line yield added stability and ­effortless speed on the wave. Enjoy ultimate customization thanks to FCS-compatible fin boxes, which allow you to fine-tune the board’s performance to your riding needs.

Sizes: 50 in., 55 in, 60 in.

MSRP: $700

obrien.com

A 100 percent hardwood core is at the heart of the Indie’s park-conquering performance. Aggressive center channels help you lock onto rails with ease, the finless design gives you the perfect amount of traction on the water without sacrificing your dominance over obstacles, and O’Brien’s super-durable Impact base and TPU Dura-Rail edges ­ensure the Indie can handle everything you throw at it.

Sizes: 136 cm, 140 cm, 144 cm

MSRP: $500

obrien.com

If you like to dress for every session like it’s a Pro Wakeboard Tour final, then ­Harley Clifford’s pro-model comp vest is a can’t-miss addition to your on-water wardrobe. Segmented Aerolite foam lends the vest an ergonomic fit, mesh drain panels keep it light, and the Magnaflex shell affords you maximum mobility.

MSRP: $130

bodyglove.com

Ronix managed to cram all of its top tech into a single boot. The result is the new RXT. This binding’s long list of superlative features includes Ronix’s breakthrough Brainframe platform, the make-it-yours customization of the Intuition+ liners, and the all-over breathability of Ronix’s Naked technology. The boot’s asymmetrical support offers soft ankle mobility with a supportive foothold.

MSRP: $530

ronixwake.com

This Parks Bonifay pro ­model delivers the same shape as the Parks Air Core at a more ­affordable ­value. The new shape yields ­increased top water speed with a sharp rail design that ­ensures you’ll get ­wherever you’re going post haste.

Sizes: 134 cm, 139 cm, 144 cm

MSRP: $480

ronixwake.com

The core of Julian Cohen’s pro model blends paulownia wood and polyurethane, yielding a unique combination of flex and strength. Combine that with a three-stage rocker, and you have a super-­stable ride that’s not only fun in the park, but completely capable behind the boat as well.

Sizes: 127 cm, 134 cm, 138 cm, 142 cm, 145 cm

MSRP: $500

jobesports.com

Designed by Dylan Miller, this all-new crossover board ­features a ton of Slingshot’s all-new tech. Among the ­advances is Slingshot’s Flex Tip technology, which outfits the tip and tail with 100 percent vertically laminated wood, allowing riders to lock into presses without ­sacrificing rigidity at the center of the board. The new super-­durable Ballistic base and Fusion sidewalls keep the Solo virtually indestructible in the park, while the center V-spine helps break up big landings behind the boat.

Sizes: 138 cm, 142 cm, 147 cm

MSRP: $550

slingshotsports.com

CWB named this new skim-style wakesurfer the ­Habit ­because it’s confident that sessions aboard this fast-­reacting, low-profile design will be tough to quit. With no bottom features and a single 1-inch fin, the Habit is easy to break free for shoves and spins, so it’s a great fit for techy riders who like a looser feel.

Sizes: 48 in., 52 in.

MSRP: $430

ridecwb.com

This aptly named boot is all about making ­wakeboarding accessible for up-and-­coming riders. It all starts with a sticker price just north of $200, but the ­Access’ ­affordability is just the ­beginning. The low-profile ­design and 2-degree canting of the ­entire platform ­create a comfortable feel that’s ­designed to keep you on the water until the sun goes down.

MSRP: $205

obrien.com

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This year Jobe presents an advanced collection of wetsuits. Put on a Jobe Steamer and embrace the cold.

The post Jobe Steamers Fall/Winter ‘16/’17 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

SEE MORE FROM CWB >>

The post CWB Team Vest appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

The Kinetik Project is designed for those who want a park board with a fast topwater speed. It provides continuous flex from tip to tail for a smooth edge into the wake. It’s durable enough to last in the park lap after lap hitting rails and features. The Kinetik Project is available in two different cores, the stiffer ATR S or the softer Park Core 2.0.

Watch the product video »

#2: Ronix Kinetik Boots

The Kinetic is a top-of-the-line boot designed for advanced riders who like a completely customized feel. It’s crazy-comfy and the cushy heel pad takes the heavy impact of big landings. Heat-moldable liners conform to your feet, and a pivot point allows for flex while remaining supportive.

For more product details »

#3: Jetpilot Aaron Rathy Comp Vest

Made from 100 percent Flex-Lite Ultra Stretch panels with ultra-soft PVC foam flotation, Aaron Rathy’s signature comp vest features a front zip, a segmented design and a sublimated tie-dye colorway.

Watch the product video »

#4: SP Gadgets Mouth Mount

A POV cam is the best way to capture wakesurf glory. Shoot your amazing wakesurf footage with the amazing SP Gadgets Mouth Mount!

Watch the product video »

#5: Kicker KPW Bluetooth Speaker

This Bluetooth speaker lets you take music aboard the boat, in the tow vehicle, and to the beach at Party Cove. Available in black or white, it plays up to 30 feet from your device.

Watch the product video »

The post Best Wakeboard Gear: 7/4 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Jeff Langley’s second signature board, the Rome is designed for the wake-centric rider seeking a nice clean pop off the wake. The feather core reduces weight for more control in the air. The Delta Base reduces drag for faster edging and better release. Widened profile and square tip and tail for more stability and punch.

Watch the product video »

#2: O’Brien Tech Vest

The Tech is U.S. Coast Guard approved and features a neoprene outer layer with strategic hinge points, offering improved comfort while the zip closure and two buckles provide a secure, body-hugging fit.

Watch the product video »

#3: Fly High Pro X Series Fat Sac

Take your riding to the next level with Fly High’s Pro X Series 750-pound Fat Sac, constructed with durable yet flexible vinyl that’s built to last.

Watch the product video »

#4: West Marine 1,000-Amp

Jump-start an engine, charge your cellphone, or power a laptop with West Marine’s 1,000-amp jump starter. With a sealed internal lead-acid battery, it will start most marine engines.

For more product details »

#5: ArmourLite Isobrite ISO100

This polycarbonate watch has an anti-reflective sapphire-crystal face with a rotating elapsed-time bezel and two tritium markers — perfect for watersports.

Watch the product video »

The post Best Wakeboard Gear: 6/13 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Lowdown: Built for beginners, wily veterans or larger-size riders, the Slingshot Nomad is a cruiser that anyone can have fun on. More surface area means it’s easier to get on plane and the perfect board to teach newbies. Larger riders will appreciate the increased stability. It has a continuous rocker for a faster ride and smooth pop off the wake.

Watch the product video »

#2: Slingshot Gnarwhal

Made for aggressive surf-style riders, the Slingshot Gnarwhal is built to take deep carves in the wave. It features a V-spine and added concave for a lively feel. The fast rocker line lets you ride farther back on the wave, or on smaller waves. A wide tail and nose give this board more volume so it fits perfectly in the pocket.

For more product details »

#3: GlideSoul Comp Vest

This GlideSoul competition vest is an easy-entry, quick-drying frontzip vest designed for a lightweight and comfortable fit on a woman — not to mention it’s available in multiple colorways.

For more product details »

#4: Speaqua Barnacle

Boaters value mobility, and the Speaqua Barnacle caters to that desire. The Barnacle is a 100 percent waterproof Bluetooth speaker. Be confident taking it aboard each time you go on the boat.

For more product details »

#5: Hitcase PRO+ Action Pack

The Hitcase PRO+ Action Pack is the real deal. It’s waterproof, shockproof, thin and easy to use. It features a super-wide interchangeable lens, Railslide mounting system, ShootR pole and much more.

Watch the product video »

For more gear: 2016 Water Sports Gear Guide »

The post Best Wakeboard Gear: 5/30 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Read our Ride Engine wetsuit review.

The post Ride Engine Wetsuits appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

You asked for it, and they delivered! The limited edition UNIT Parktech snapback and beanie are here!

The snapback is heather grey with a black brim and subtle UNIT branding on the front and rear. The snapback is adjustable to fit any size dome. The beanie is available in colors to suit every mood: black, black and black. It performs best during snowy winter days and after early-spring wakeboard sessions. One-size-fits-all.

Check out the UNIT Parktech Online Shop to pick one up before they are all gone!

UNIT Parktech AG – checking your head since 2008

The post Snapback and Beanie by UNIT Parktech appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

A life jacket is designed to literally save your life, so naturally it’s the most important piece of equipment you wear during any towed watersport. Not only will it keep you on the surface of the water, but it can protect your torso from heavy crashes that could otherwise break ribs or damage vital organs. With modern vest designs, there’s really no excuse for not wearing one at all times. It’s not like we’re asking you to wear the neck-choking keyhole-design orange life preservers that you wore back in the ’70s and ’80s; today’s vest options are comfortable and snug-fitting, yet still allow for maximum body movement and are even stylish. Don’t be stupid; wear your vest. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the next piece of equipment that could save your life.

While wearing an improperly fitted vest is marginally better than wearing nothing at all, it’s best to take the time to find a vest that fits well and that you actually enjoy wearing. Vests are like wakeboard boots or water-ski shoes: While one model may be a perfect fit for you, it might not work for your friend or family member. Head down to your local pro shop and try on a few models from different manufacturers. A vest should be as snug as possible while remaining comfortable; remember, it will stretch out when it gets wet. If you opt for comfort over fit while trying on vests in the shop, you might find that the same vest you forked out your hard-earned cash for is floating around your ears on the first wipeout you encounter.

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The post How to Choose a Wakeboarding Vest appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.