Waveboards: Discover the Origin and learn waveboarding in 5 steps

by Joost Nusselder Updated on: March 16, 2023

Like a skateboard is no longer cool enough, everyone moves on to the next craze. This time it's waveboards!

A wave board is a new type of skateboard launched in 2004 with two wheels next to each other, which can turn independently of each other. It works by means of a flexible platform connected to a torsion bar with two wheels that can rotate independently of each other.

In this article I will tell you everything about the origin, development and possibilities of the wave board.

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What is a wave board?

A waveboard is a type of skateboard with two wheels placed next to each other and connected by a flexible platform. It is a relatively new type of skateboard that was launched in 2004. The waveboard is designed for riders looking for a new challenge and want to experience a different way of riding.

How does it work?

The waveboard consists of two parts that are connected by a flexible platform. The platform is made of plastic and has a ribbed bottom to improve grip. Two wheels are attached to the underside of the platform, which are positioned next to each other. The front and rear wheels can rotate independently of each other, giving the wave board a unique movement.

How do you ride a waveboard?

To ride a waveboard, you first need to find the right position. Place your feet together on the platform, with your front foot pointing slightly forward. Place your back foot on the back edge of the platform for more stability. To start, push yourself off with your back foot and start moving. To accelerate, move your body from side to side, shifting your weight from one side to the other.

How do you make turns?

To turn on a waveboard, you have to move your body to the side you want to turn to. For example, if you want to turn left, move your body to the left. In addition, you can also turn your front foot to the left or right to change the direction of the waveboard.

What are the benefits of waveboarding?

Waveboarding is a fun and challenging way to move your body. It takes a bit of practice to master the right move, but it offers multiple options for riding, jumping, and turning. It is a natural way of moving that makes your body strong and gives you a feeling of freedom.

Who is waveboarding suitable for?

Waveboarding is suitable for anyone looking for a new challenge and wants to experience a different way of riding. It is a great sport for beginners and experts. It does take some practice to master the right move, but with the right steps and guidance, anyone can learn it.

The origin of the wave board

The waveboard was originally developed in America in the 90s. The creators wanted to create a board that made the surf-like movement possible on the street. They came up with the idea of ​​attaching caster wheels to a skateboard, allowing the board to make a unique combination of spinning and surf-like movements. The board was connected by a torsion bar that connects the two wheels.

The introduction of the waveboard to the market

The waveboard was marketed in 2003 under the name “Waveboard” by the manufacturer Streetsurfing. It was the only manufacturer that had acquired the rights to sell the board under this name. The waveboard was a very innovative product and quickly became popular among young people.

The development of the caster board

Soon other manufacturers entered the market and released a similar board under a different name. For example, the caster board was introduced by the manufacturer Ess Boarding. The casterboard is characterized by the combination of two separately rotating decks, connected by a torsion bar.

The popularity of the wave board

The wave board and caster board have both become very popular sports equipment. The boards have also become a popular means of transport for short distances. The boards are easy to carry and make it possible to move yourself in a unique way.

The origin of the waveboard in Asia

Although the wave board was originally developed in America, today the production of the wave board mainly takes place in Asia. The creators of the waveboard have sometimes indicated that they were inspired by surfing and experiencing freedom on the street. The wave board has continued to develop and has become a very popular board among young people and adults.

Learn waveboarding

Waveboarding is a fun way to propel yourself and enjoy free time. If you want to start waveboarding, there are a number of steps you need to follow. First of all, you need to make sure you have a waveboard. Waveboards are similar to skateboards, but have two wheels that can turn independently.

The right attitude

If you have a wave board, you need to learn how to stand on it. This takes some practice, but it is very important to adopt the correct posture. First, sit on the floor and put your feet on the waveboard. Then you come up and stand still. Place your feet slightly apart and bend your knees slightly. Hold your hands out in front of you to keep your balance.

Move and drive

Once you are standing, you can start driving. To move, take off your feet and start stepping. It is important to use your feet alternately so that you can maintain a constant speed. Once you have a little more experience, you can also start jumping and turning on your waveboard.

Braking and safety

If you want to stop, you can press the back of the waveboard to brake. It is important to always pay attention to safety and to wear protective gear such as a helmet and knee pads.

Tips for beginners

– Start on a flat surface and practice slowly before going faster.

• Don't put your feet too far apart or it will be harder to keep your balance.
• Use your body movement to steer and turn.
• Try not to go too fast, especially if you are still a beginner.
• Practice regularly and don't give up if you don't succeed right away.

Waveboarding takes some practice, but it's a fun and challenging activity for kids and adults alike. With the right basics and tips you can quickly learn to waveboard and enjoy the freedom and speed that waveboarding offers.

How does the movement of a wave board work?

A waveboard looks like a skateboard at first sight, but the movement is very different. This is due to the unique construction of the wave board. The board consists of two separate parts that are connected to each other with a flexible rod. Under each part are two wheels that can rotate independently of each other. This allows the waveboard to propel itself in a fluid motion similar to surfing or snowboarding.

Moving forward by tilting and turning

To ride on a waveboard, you must first gain sufficient speed by pushing off with your foot against the ground. Then place your feet on the back and front platform of the board. Your body movement will tilt the board to the left or right, making you head in that direction. The tilting is done by rotating your hips and shifting your weight from one foot to the other. It is important to make this move carefully and calculated, otherwise the waveboard can become unbalanced.

Make turns and steer

To make turns on a waveboard you have to tilt the board in the direction you want to go. This can be done to the left or to the right. By shifting your weight to the outside of the board, the board is brought in that direction. Steering a waveboard therefore requires a combination of tilting and turning. It's important to time your moves well and anticipate the board's reaction.

Propulsion and speed

The propulsion of a wave board comes from the propulsive and turning movement you make with your hips and feet. By tilting the board and shifting your weight, you push the board up and it is pushed by the wheels. This gives you speed and you can even drive up small slopes. It is important to have enough speed before you start tilting and turning, otherwise the waveboard will not have enough momentum to move.

The position of your feet

The position of your feet on a waveboard is also important for the movement. Your back foot is perpendicular to the board and your front foot is in a straight position. This allows you to easily shift your weight from one side of the board to the other. It is important not to place your feet too far apart, as this will affect your balance.

The movement of a wave board compared to other board sports

Unlike roller skates or a casting rod, where you mainly move forward, on a waveboard you move in all directions. It is similar to snowboarding or surfing, where you can also move in all directions. The big difference is that you don't have fixed bindings on a waveboard, so you can move your feet separately from each other. This makes waveboarding a unique experience that cannot be compared to other board sports.

Steering on a waveboard: tips and tricks

Steering on a waveboard is an important part of riding. It is a combination of the correct foot movement and tilting the board. To steer, you need to shift your weight from the front to the back of the board. You do this by moving your foot forward or backward. To steer to the left, move your left foot forward and your right foot back. To make a right turn, do the opposite.

Tilting the board

The tilt of the board is another important factor in steering. By tilting the board, you shift the center of gravity and change the direction you are going. To go left, tilt the board to the left and to go right, tilt the board to the right. It is important not to tilt too much, otherwise the board can get out of control.

Surfing on the street

Waveboards are intended for surfing on the street and are ideal for young people and adults looking for a new way of moving. It is a combination of skateboarding, roller skating and surfing. It is important to use proper technique when steering to avoid injury. If you have a bruised foot, it is important to allow adequate time for recovery before riding again.

Braking with a waveboard

When you start waveboarding, it is important to know how to brake. Braking with a waveboard is different from braking with a skateboard. The waveboard has two sides, and you have to be on the right side to brake. To start, you need to stand on a flat surface and pick up some speed. Then you tilt the waveboard to the side where your dominant foot is. For example, if you are right-footed, tilt the board to the right. This causes your speed to decrease.

Braking at high speed

When driving at a high speed, you have to make a big side to brake. It is important to know that you cannot stop all at once. You have to gradually reduce your speed. You do this by turning more and more until you come to a stop. If you brake too quickly, the waveboard may break out and you may fall.

Braking on sharp turns

If you make a sharp turn, you also need to be able to brake. You do this by tilting the waveboard to the rear. This will lock the wheel at the back of the board and reduce your speed. It is important to know that you should not brake too hard, otherwise the board could break out and you could fall.

Other ways to brake

There are also other ways to brake with a waveboard. One is by turning. When you start turning, your speed automatically decreases. Another way is by using your feet. If you move your feet forward, your speed decreases. It is important to note that these types of braking are not as effective as basic braking.

Important to practice

Braking with a waveboard takes practice. It is important to know how to brake before driving. Practice on a flat surface and start at a slow speed. Then try increasing your speed and braking in different ways. It is also important to know that every waveboard is different. It may respond slightly differently than another waveboard. It is therefore important to get used to the specific waveboard you use.

Waveboarding safety

Waveboarding is a fun and exciting sport, but safety should always come first. Here are some important facts to keep in mind:

• Waveboarding can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. Even if you are an experienced wave boarder, you should always be careful and take proper precautions.
• Beginners are more likely to get injured than advanced wave boarders. If you're new to the sport, take extra care and take the time to learn the basics before attempting more difficult maneuvers.
• It is very important to wear proper protection, such as wrist guards and a helmet. This protection can prevent or reduce serious injury if you fall.
• Waveboarding should only be done on terrains suitable for the sport. Tiles and other hard surfaces can cause serious injuries if you fall.
• It is important to know how to brake and stop before you start waveboarding. Not knowing how to stop can lead to serious injuries.

Safety precautions for beginners

As a beginner, it is important to be extra careful and take proper safety precautions. Here are some tips:

• Always wear wrist guards and a helmet. This protection can prevent serious injuries if you fall.
• Start on a level surface and practice steering and braking before trying more difficult maneuvers.
• Do not go too fast. Take the time to get used to the waveboard and slowly build up the speed.
• Waveboard only on areas suitable for the sport, such as skate parks or special waveboard areas.
• Pay attention to other people around you and make sure you don't endanger anyone.

Waveboard or skateboard: what's the difference?

At first glance, a waveboard looks like a skateboard, but there are some differences. The main difference is that a wave board has a flexible board, while a skateboard has a rigid board. This makes the wave board easier to move and steer.

Wheel arrangement

Another difference is the wheel arrangement. A skateboard has the wheels on the front and back of the board, while a wave board has the wheels in the middle of the board. As a result, the rider balances on the waveboard differently than on a skateboard.

Movement and tricks

Because a wave board is more flexible and the wheels are arranged differently, the wave board is easier to move and do tricks with. The skateboard, on the other hand, is better suited for high speeds and making sharp turns.

Grip points

Another difference is that a waveboard often has grip points on the board, while a skateboard does not. This helps the rider to stay on the board better.

Quality and brands

There are different brands of waveboards and skateboards. In general, the quality of a waveboard is slightly higher than that of a skateboard. This is because wave boards often have extra reinforcements and are made of better materials.

Tough and safe

Incidentally, both the waveboard and the skateboard are very cool to see and use. It is important to always take safety into account and wear protection while driving. This way the rider not only feels tough, but also safe.

Fear of failure

If you are fearful of failure, the wave board can be a good choice. Because the wave board is easier to move, the chance of falling and failure is smaller. This can help you feel more confident while driving.

Conclusion

Waveboards are a new challenge for riders looking for a different way to ride. It works best if you find the right position and move your body like you would on a skateboard, but with two wheels side by side.

Now that you know how it works, you're ready to try it and it's a fun way to move your body. Give it a try and enjoy the freedom!

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.