The snow has melted, winter layers are packed away, and the mountains are trading their white coats for green. But just because the powder is gone doesn’t mean the shredding has to stop. Here at Blauer Board Shop, we believe the transition from winter to summer means swapping one type of carve for another.
That’s right—it’s time to trade the powder for the wake.
We are stoked to announce that Blauer’s Summer Rental Shop is officially OPEN for the season! Whether you’re a seasoned lake rat or trying a tow sport for the first time, we’ve got the boat packed and the gear tuned.
Not sure what to strap into or stand on behind the boat this summer? We’ve put together a quick intro to the holy trinity of boat sports: Wakeboards, Wakeskates, and Waterskis. Let’s dive in.
1. Wakeboarding: Snowboarding’s Summer Cousin
If you spent the winter slashing through glades and hitting the terrain park, wakeboarding is going to feel like a homecoming.
What is it? Wakeboarding involves riding a single board with stationary, boot-like bindings while being towed behind a boat. You ride sideways, regular or goofy just like on the snow, using the boat's wake as a ramp to catch air, spin, or carve massive, glassy turns.
Who is it for? Everyone! Wakeboarding is accessible for beginners because the bindings keep your feet locked in place, making deep-water starts easier to learn. For advanced riders, the progression is endless—from clearing the wake to throwing inverts.
What to rent at Blauer: We carry a fleet of beginner-friendly continuous rocker boards for smooth, predictable rides, as well as aggressive 3-stage rocker boards for riders looking for massive pop off the wake.
2. Wakeskating: The Unleashed Ride
Want to take the bindings off and bring your street skills to the water? Meet wakeskating.
What is it? A wakeskate is similar in shape to a wakeboard but slightly smaller and has no bindings. Instead, the top of the board is covered in grippy EVA foam or waterproof grip tape. You wear specialized water shoes or go barefoot if you're rocking foam and ride it exactly like a skateboard.
Who is it for? Skateboarders will instantly fall in love with the physics of wakeskating. It’s also perfect for wakeboarders looking for a fresh challenge. Because you aren't strapped in, you can kickflip, shuv-it, and manual just like at the skatepark. Plus, crashes are usually more forgiving since you simply kick the board away!
What to rent at Blauer: We rent a variety of wakeskates designed for both boat and winch riding. Our team can help you pick the right size and set you up with a shorter non-stretch tow rope for the perfect pull.
3. Waterskiing: The Classic Lake Thrill
Before there were wakeboards and wakeskates, there were waterskis. It’s the classic lake sport that never goes out of style, offering unparalleled speed and edge control.
What is it? You know the drill: riding forward, facing the boat. Waterskiing can be done on two skis (combo skis) or a single ski (slalom).
Who is it for? Combo skiing is the ultimate family-friendly activity and often the easiest way for young kids or beginners to get up on the water for the first time. The two skis provide a wide, stable platform. For speed demons, dropping a ski and transitioning to slalom is where the real magic happens. Slalom skiers lean into corners so hard their shoulders graze the water, creating massive, iconic walls of spray.
What to rent at Blauer: We have adjustable combo skis perfect for the whole family, as well as high-performance slalom skis for those looking to tear up the glassy morning water.
Come Get Geared Up!
Summer goes by fast, so don’t waste a single glassy morning. Whether you’re heading to the local reservoir for an afternoon or booking a week-long cabin trip on the lake, Blauer Board Shop has the rental gear you need to make it epic.
Our rental packages include the board/skis, bindings, life jackets (CGA approved!), and the right tow ropes for your specific sport.
Drop by the shop today to get sized up, chat with our team about lake conditions, and reserve your setup. See you on the water! 🤙