Do you want your boat to create better waves for wakesurfing – without a lot of work? The Swell Wakesurf Creator simplifies the process while producing a bigger, cleaner wake.
The Mission Wake Shaper and Liquid Force Mega Wakesurf Edge essentially do the same thing as far as generating a DIY wave.
However, they do have different design features you’ll want to know about, and we note them below.
How Do Wake Shapers Work?
In short, these wave-making devices have 2 high-performance suction cups that secure to the hull of your boat. They are strong, durable and can withstand speeds up to 14 mph.
The unique wakesurf wedge design first increases water turbulence along the boat’s hull. In turn, it slows the water flow on that side of the boat.
As a result, you get a bigger, cleaner and longer wake that makes for better surfing. In other words, your board gets more “push” from the wave, and you can surf more easily for longer.
People love these small surfing gadgets because they are quick and easy to use, plus they don’t cost a lot of money. Not to mention, they take up virtually no space in the boat. =)
Can You Use a Wake Shaper Without Ballast?
In short, yes you can. However, you can get a larger, more surf-able wave by adding ballast with Fat Sac Ballast bags or lots of heavy people.
Installation Instructions: How to Use a Wakesurf Shaper:
Once the boat is fully loaded, attach the Swell Wakesurf Creator to the hull of the boat 3-4 inches below the water line. (Position it on the opposite side of where the person will surf.)
Then, simply press both suction cups firmly against the hull of the boat and flip the locking levers. Placement only takes a few seconds.
The Swell eliminates the need to weight your boat to one side. In other words, now everyone can sit where they want in the boat – instead of on top of each other.
Plus, both goofy and regular riders can surf on their preferred side. Just release the levers on the Swell and attach it to the opposite side of the boat!
Specs for the Swell Wakesurf Creator 2.0:
- Dimensions: 13″ Long x 8″ Wide x 8″ Tall
- Universal, Works on Most Inboard Boats
- Space Needed: 13″ Long x 5″ Wide x 3.5″ Tall
- Material: UV-Protected Marine Grade Polymer & Stainless Steel
- Weight: 4.5 lbs
- It Floats!
- On Sale: Where to Get the Swell 2.0
What if the Swell Won’t Fit Your Boat? Wake shapers don’t fit all boat styles. For example, the Swell doesn’t fit the Mastercraft X2, X30 or X45. In these situation, you can use the Swell Wakesurf Slim instead.
2. Delta 2.0 Mission Wake Shaper:
The Mission Wake Shaper works a little differently from other wakesurf creators.
First of all, it has open side vents to increase turbulence and produce a better surfing wave.
Second, the device has lofted suction cups to conform to curved surfaces on boats. Therefore, if your boat’s hull has significant curvature, this device may work best for you. Otherwise, the fitting may won’t matter.
Third, the RipFlow technology creates a really clean wave without putting extra load on your boat. In other words, it minimizes wash, smooths out the wake and you can save money on gas. (That said, it costs about $75 more up front than the Swell.)
The video below reviews how to install a wake shaper and how it works to divert the water flow. Plus, you see a comparison of how the wake looks before and after…
Note: The Delta 2.0 also works on direct drive boats, due to its reversible orientation feature. Plus, you can use the Delta 2.0 on a boat with a complex hull, or if you need to attach the wakesurf wedge higher.
3. Liquid Force Mega Wake Shaper:
As you might expect, the Liquid Force Wake Shaper makes a really big wave. Basically, the concave channeling arm pushes more water, and therefore increases the length of the wave.
However, this shaper will put extra load on your boat and therefore use more gas. It is recommended boat 21 feet or longer and for boats that have a 325 hp engine or greater.
4. Tidal Wake XLR8 Wake Generator:
If you want to save money, the Tidal Wake Shaper costs about $50 less than the Swell.
It also has a curved arm vs a flat panel, which allows it to increase the wake size, providing more push and speed.
What’s the Best Wake Shaper for Wakesurfing?
This really depends on (1) the size wave you want (2) how much money you want to spend and (3) if you want to save money on gas. In any case, adding ballast bags will enhance wave output.
The Liquid Force Mega wake generator can produce the largest wave. On the other hand, the Mission Delta 2.0 work efficiently to produce a smooth, elongated wake with minimal pull. The Swell Wakesurf Maker is the best-selling model, while the Tidal Wake Shaper is the cheapest.
Also, keep in mind that wakesurf creators don’t work on jet skis, jetboat hulls or pontoon boats. In addition, you don’t want to surf behind a boat with an outboard motor due to safety reasons.
