How to Choose the Best Wakeboard and Wakesurf Board Racks For Your Boat

With summer just around the corner, boaters are busy ticking off their spring checklist: pulling the boat out of storage, scheduling de-winterization, fixing any issues from last season, and thinking about how to top last year’s time on the water. One upgrade that can significantly enhance your experience is improved storage—specifically for your wakeboards and wakesurf boards. Whether you currently have no board storage system or your existing racks are showing signs of wear, upgrading to a new set of wakeboard and wakesurf board racks will not only streamline your setup but also make your boat look even more impressive. Keep reading for expert advice on this trending upgrade.

WHAT TO CONSIDER

1. Board Size Compatibility
2. Board Rack Material
3. Mounting System
4. Aesthetic and Design
5. Price and Warranty
6. Brand Reputation
7. Durability and Longevity
8. Bungee vs Clamping

#1. Board Size Compatibility

One of the most important factors to consider is the type of gear you plan to store in your new board racks. Board racks come in various shapes and sizes, with some designed to fit specific combinations of gear—such as two wakeboards, a wakeboard and a wakesurf board, two wakesurf boards, a kneeboard, or even skis. If your gear varies from outing to outing, it's best to choose a rack that can accommodate two wakesurf boards and features a reliable clamping mechanism to securely hold thinner-profile boards when needed.

#2. Board Rack Material

Wakeboard and wakesurf board racks are typically made from three materials: billet aluminum, stainless steel, and over-molded TPU aluminum. Each material affects the cost, durability, and level of protection your rack provides. Over-molded TPU aluminum is usually the most affordable option, while stainless steel tends to be the most expensive. In terms of durability, stainless steel is the strongest and most resistant to corrosion. Billet aluminum, though still highly corrosion-resistant, may not perform as well in extremely harsh environments. However, its lightweight design makes it a popular choice. All three materials offer reliable protection for your boards, and the tines are often covered in a shock-absorbing "board caresser" rubber to cushion your boards during those bumpy rides back to the dock. Ultimately, the right choice for you will depend on your budget, the conditions you typically boat in, and your priorities in terms of weight and durability

#3. Mounting System

When purchasing a new board rack, compatibility is a key factor to consider. While most racks are designed to fit most wake boats, you may need to buy an adapter in some cases. It's recommended to choose the same brand for both the adapter and the rack to ensure the best fit. Additionally, it's important to understand the difference between clamps and swivel mechanisms. Clamps typically attach directly to the tower, while a swivel mechanism fits between the board rack and the adapter.

#4. Aesthetic and Design

We strongly recommend prioritizing functionality over aesthetics, though design still plays an important role. Key design elements to consider include color, material, and orientation. While mixing and matching the colors of your tower, adapter/swivel, and board rack can be fun, boats with a single color above the gunnel tend to be more appealing and retain their resale value. The material of the board rack also impacts the overall look: stainless steel, for instance, provides a sleek and polished appearance, while molded TPU aluminum gives a more budget-friendly feel. Finally, board racks come in various orientations, so it's important to decide whether you prefer a vertical, horizontal, or angled setup.

#5. Price and Warranty

Dialing in your budget is a great way to narrow down your search. Most board racks range from $500 - $2,000 per side. This price range does not include swivels or adapters. Most companies we work with offer a 1-Year Warranty, but this differs brand to brand. It is important to research the warranty offered before purchasing. Board racks are a far less warrantied item than wakesurf boards, tubes, life jackets, etc. but it is still worth factoring into your decision.

#6. Brand Reputation

We are very thoughtful and meticulous about the brands we carry and support. If their product is listed on our website, you can trust the brand is worth trusting. Some companies may manufacturer a board rack, but it is not necessarily their bread and butter. It is recommended to purchase your board rack from a brand that specializes in board racks. Some top brands to check out are Roswell, PTM, and Skylon.

#7. Durability and Longevity

When selecting a board rack for your wakeboard boat, durability and longevity should be key considerations. Look for materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment, such as stainless steel or corrosion-resistant aluminum. These materials not only offer strength and resistance to wear but also ensure that the rack will stand up to exposure to water, salt, and UV rays over time. A durable rack will not only protect your gear but also maintain its functionality and appearance for many seasons, ultimately providing long-term value for your investment.

#8. Bungee vs Clamping

Lastly, an important decision to make is choosing between a bungee-style or clamping-style mechanism. Clamping board racks are generally considered safer for fragile wakesurf boards, but they tend to be more expensive. Bungee systems, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly, though they can sometimes leave marks or dents on delicate boards. For wakeboards and other durable gear, either option should work well. Ultimately, the choice depends on the type of gear you plan to store and your budget.

SHOP WAKEBOARD AND WAKESURF BOARD RACKS