Young kids can definitely learn to wakesurf. That said, they can learn much more easily on a kids wakesurf board. The Phase 5 Scamp is designed specifically with kids in mind (under 90 lbs).
The scamp has a smaller size and lighter weight. This makes it easier for kids to maneuver and control. In addition, it has a wide center compared to its length. This makes it significantly more stable for smaller kids to stand on.
Plus, the wider profile gives the board more speed so that kids can move faster and easily stay in the sweet spot of the wake. See what I mean in this video below:
This wakesurfer also comes with a 3-fin setup, which also increases stability for the rider. On top of that, the standard deck grip pad is very comfortable on kids’ feet.
Should You Buy a Kid-Only Wakesurf Board?
Some people think that it doesn’t make sense to buy a smaller wakesurfer that kids will grow out of. However, children can learn much more easily when they are smaller and have a lower center of gravity.
If you have a boat and plan on wakesurfing every summer, make it easier on yourself and more fun for your kids. Get a youth-sized wakesurf board. They can use it for many years before moving up to an adult-sized wakesurfer (because boards don’t have bindings!).
Then, when you don’t need it anymore, you can resell it and make a good amount of your money back. That is, unless you decide to have more kids…
The Phase Five Scamp kids wakesurf board offers several benefits for young riders, but it has drawbacks as well. Let’s look at the advantages, disadvantages and how this wakesurfer caters specifically to children’s needs compared to adult-sized boards.
Benefits of the Phase Five Scamp Wakesurfer:
1. Size and Weight: The Scamp is specifically designed for kids, featuring a smaller size and lighter weight, making it easier for young riders to handle and maneuver on the water. This characteristic allows children to feel more comfortable and confident during their wakesurfing sessions.
2. Stability and Balance: The Scamp offers excellent stability and balance, thanks to its wide surface area and flat rocker design. This feature helps young riders maintain control and stay on the board more easily, enhancing their overall experience and progression in the sport.
3. Forgiving Performance: The Scamp’s design incorporates forgiving characteristics, such as a larger sweet spot and softer rails. These aspects contribute to easier turns, smoother transitions, and increased forgiveness for slight mistakes, ensuring a positive and enjoyable learning curve for young wakesurfers.
4. Durability: The Scamp is constructed with durable materials to withstand the rigors of children’s use. It can handle accidental bumps and collisions with ease, ensuring longevity and minimizing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
5. Safety: Due to its smaller size, the Scamp poses less risk for accidents or injuries. Additionally, its forgiving design helps prevent sudden falls or slips, providing a safer experience for young wakesurfers.
6. Child-Friendly Design: The Scamp features vibrant and appealing graphics that cater to children’s tastes, making the board visually appealing and exciting for young riders. This aspect adds to the overall enjoyment and engagement during wakesurfing sessions.
Drawbacks of the Scamp:
1. Limited Lifespan: As the Scamp is specifically designed for children, it may have a limited lifespan. As kids grow and gain more experience, they might outgrow the board’s size and performance capabilities, requiring an upgrade to a larger and more advanced wakesurf board.
2. Reduced Speed and Maneuverability: Due to its smaller size and lightweight construction, the Scamp may not provide the same level of speed and maneuverability as adult-sized wakesurf boards. While this is suitable for young riders developing their skills, more experienced wakesurfers may find the Scamp less suitable for advanced tricks and high-performance riding.
Different Boards to Take a Look At:
Hyperlite Gromcast: Similar to the Scamp, the Gromcast is designed specifically for kids. It offers stability, easy maneuverability and forgiveness, making it another excellent choice for young riders.
Hyperlite Shim Wakesurf Board: The Hyperlite Shim is an adult-sized wakesurf board that provides exceptional performance, speed, and maneuverability. While it may be tempting for young riders to use a board like the Shim, the Scamp’s size and forgiving characteristics are better suited for children, offering a safer and more enjoyable experience on the water.
Note: The Scamp has a “pintail” shape, which means that it gives the ride greater control when surfing.
However, if your boat puts out a smaller wake, you may prefer a wakesurfer with a “squash tail” design which performs better on smaller waves. The Hyperite Gromcast has a squash tail design.
Kids Wakesurfers VS Adult Boards:
Size and Weight: Adult-sized boards are larger and heavier. Thus, they can be more challenging for children to handle and control. This can lead to frustration and hinder their learning progress. The Scamp’s smaller size and lighter weight are better suited for young riders, allowing them to develop their skills more comfortably.
Maneuverability: Adult-sized boards are designed for experienced riders who can utilize their speed and maneuverability to perform tricks and advanced maneuvers. Young wakesurfers may find it challenging to maneuver and control these larger boards, while the Scamp’s design offers easier handling and maneuverability, enhancing their overall experience.
Safety: Young riders may struggle to maintain balance and control on these larger, heavier boards. As a result, they can increase the likelihood of accidents or injuries. The Scamp’s design prioritizes safety with its smaller size, lighter weight and forgiving characteristics.
Phase 5 Scamp Specs:
- Dimensions: approximately 45″ long x 20″ wide x 1/2″ thick
- Board Style: Skim
- Construction: Composilite™ (see below)
- Fins: (2) 1″ side fins + (1) 2″ center fin
- About the Company: Phase 5
- For Sale: Get the Scamp Here
Many Phase 5 boards have a unique feature in their Composilite™ construction. Basically, they can build a high quality board for an affordable price.
As customer, this means that you can pay less for your gear, AND you get an ultra-durable, high performing wakesurf board that will last you a long time.
More Wakesurfing Resources:
- “Wakesurf Boards: How to Choose” by evo
- “Wakesurf Board Buying Guide” by WakeMAKERS
- “The Wakesurfing Guide: Tips, Tricks, and Safety” by Discover Boating
- “Wakesurfing 101: A Beginner’s Guide” by Wakeboarding Magazine
