Wakesurfing in Switzerland
What is wakesurfing?
Wakesurfing is a water sport in which you surf on a short surfboard on the wake generated by a motorboat. Unlike wakeboarding, the rider is not permanently pulled by a rope. The speed of the boat is set so that a constant, standing wave is created, on which the wakesurfer can surf freely. The tow rope is only needed for the start and is then thrown back into the boat.
How does wakesurfing work?
-
The motorboat travels at a low speed, usually between 9 and 16 km/h, to create a clean, surfable wave.
-
The wakesurfer stands on a special wakesurf board that is shorter and wider than a classic surfboard or wakeboard.
-
After starting with the line, the surfer moves towards the stern of the boat until they reach the wave optimally.
-
As soon as the position is correct, the tow rope is released and the surfer rides the boat wave.
-
Speed, balance, and direction are controlled exclusively through weight distribution and foot placement.
Just like with classic surfing or skateboarding, tricks, turns, and spins can also be performed while wakesurfing.
Who is wakesurfing suitable for?
Wakesurfing is an accessible and versatile water sport that is suitable for almost every age and skill level. Although it takes some practice to develop balance and control, the sport offers a safe, controlled environment and a lot of fun on the water.
Wakesurfing in Switzerland
There are also numerous opportunities for wakesurfing in Switzerland:
Lake Zurich
One of the most popular lakes for water sports. There are several providers and schools along the lake.
Wakesurf schools: reboat.ch, ceccotorenas.ch
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)
Around Geneva and Lausanne, you will find water sports centers with courses and rental offers.
Wakesurf school: wake-up.ch
Lake Thun
Located in the Bernese Oberland, Lake Thun offers ideal conditions for wakesurfing.
Wakesurf school: wakehouse.ch
Lake Biel
Also a popular spot with various water sports clubs and providers.
Equipment: Wakesurf Boards
Wakesurf boards differ significantly from classic surfboards or wakeboards:
-
Shorter and wider to provide enough buoyancy at low speeds
-
More volume and surface area, since no paddling is necessary
-
Often twin or quad fin setups with smaller fins for more control on the wave
-
Almost always with front pad and tail pad, so no wax is needed
Since you barely paddle while wakesurfing, comfort and grip are the clear priorities.
There are different board types for different riding styles:
Beginners usually prefer stable, forgiving boards, while advanced riders choose lighter, more agile shapes for tricks and maneuvers. Choosing the right board depends on body weight, skill, and personal riding style.
You can find our wakesurf equipment at the following link:
https://surfari.ch/collections/wakesurfboards
