rope lenght

nightvision

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Mar 7, 2004
Messages
252
Hi all,
My seven years old son started kneeboarding and my niece started wakeboarding. Both are new to the sport and booth were able to get up. How long should my rope be for the kneeboard and wakeboard. I have to different setup for the two kids. We have an outdrive on our boat. I believe we are currently have a 45 feet rope. It has two additional add on rope that's about 8 feet each. Thanks.
 

trejac

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Jan 31, 2009
Messages
89
Re: rope lenght

My son's 10 and I use a 55' for him while he's knee boarding. The knee board he uses has the aqua hook on the front so I made a special two handle rope that pulls the kneeboard while he holds the second handle. It has helped him learn to get up. Once he's up he pulls the handle and it comes out of the aquahook and he has total control. I use the same size rope when I wakeboard. I hear it is easier to get up. This is how i do it. Other's may know better!
 

skibrain

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jun 17, 2004
Messages
766
Re: rope lenght

If the kids are small I would use the rope length that puts them where ever the wake is least intimidating and easy to cross over. As they get more experienced and want to jump the wake, you can use the rope length that puts them in the cleanest, largest part of the wake. Nothing wrong with using any of your available options - it will be a bit different boat to boat.

And maybe the most important part: A shorter rope = better photos taken from the boat. :)
 

salty87

Commander
Joined
Aug 12, 2003
Messages
2,327
Re: rope lenght

to me it's all about speed. the little ones shouldn't go too fast. find out what speed they're comfortable at and use a rope that puts them in the clean spot.
 

rjlipscomb

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jun 2, 2009
Messages
582
Re: rope lenght

My recommendation is all about getting clear of the boats exhaust fumes. A good recommended starting length is 45-50 ft. Longer ropes will allow you to catch more air.
 
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