BEST KNEEBOARDS

An Ultimate Guide To Buying The Best Kneeboards

Introduction

We have prepared a list of best kneeboards for you to have a great time in waters regardless of the fact that you are a beginner or an intermediate level stunt performer. In this article, we have ensured to include all types of kneeboards ranging from the products that are best suited for families to the boards that are ideal for the riders who are looking for some over the edge experience.

Please bear in mind that we are not focusing on high-end kneeboards in this post.

We will review different types of kneeboards and the brands that have the high-quality products to offer you. We will also share a comparison table for you to quickly jump to a conclusion and buy the best kneeboard that meets all your requirements.

In most cases, your buying decision will be based on your preferences and requirements. So, let's begin!

Product

Type of Product

Strap Type

Customer Rating out of 5

Price

O'Brien Ion 

​Competitive

​3”Padded

Leader Accessories

​Competitive

​3”Padded

Driftsun Charger

​Recreational

​3” Padded Adjustable Straps

Hydroslide Magna

​Competitive

​3”Padded

Driftsun - Budget Kneeboard

​Recreational

​3” Padded Adjustable Straps

O'Brien Radica

​Recreational

​3” Padded Adjustable Straps

O'Brien Voodoo - Best Kneeboard

​Recreational

​3” Padded Adjustable Straps

Types of kneeboards

Primarily, there are two types of kneeboards: recreational and competitive.

The recreational kneeboards

The recreational kneeboards

The recreationaltypes come with a roto-molded board which is cheap. They have wide and soft edges and are designed for beginners. These edges offer smooth turning and excellent control. These boards are relatively thick and buoyant and act well as a floating device.

Some of these kneeboards also come with fins for convenient turns.

The competitive kneeboards

The competitive kneeboards

The competitive kneeboards are compression molded and are equipped with more durability and performance as compared to the recreational types. Due to this fact, the competitive kneeboards are best suited for advanced users.

These boards are thinner and lighter and they also feature sharper edges as compared to recreational ones to allow swift turning and radial tricks. As these boards are not buoyant, therefore, you can use them in deep-waters too.

Above all that, there are different types of rockers too. More rocker will be good for making sharp turns while fewer rockers will be good for speed. There are trick boards that come with rounded edges and bottom while you will also find slalom boards that come with sharp edges for tight turns.

The high-end kneeboards come with some high tech features and they will cost you more. 

Top Brands

There are so many options available on the market and each of them is designed to meet a different set of requirements for the consumers. You can easily get carried away and might even end up buying the wrong kneeboard that doesn't cater your needs.

In most cases when someone doesn’t find the right option they tend to turn towards the expensive products with a view that expensive ones offer sound quality, but to tell you the truth, high price doesn’t always guarantee high quality. In the end, it all comes down to this question: "which is the best kneeboard out there?"

Well, to sort out the mystery for you can pick anyone kneeboards from our list but to be precise we will highly recommend the products from O'Brien. The brand has been at the forefront of kneeboarding with years of experience under their belt. They have a vast variety of high-quality kneeboards that not perform but also last for a long time.

They use the state of the art design and cutting-edge technologies in production to provide you with all types of kneeboards. These boards have a unique sandwich construction making them more flexible,and you get a very responsive and snappy ride on the water that you crave.

O’Brien kneeboards are the best kneeboards that you will find on the market. The brand offers both low end and high tech kneeboards using cutting-edge technologies. It is a common view that once you ride O'Brien, you don't ride anything else after that. 

Apart from O'Brien, there are some other high-quality brands including Hydroslide, Driftsun, HO Sports, Body Glove, and Nash. All these names offer topnotch kneeboards that will bring out the best of you on waves. Most of these brands are included in our list of best kneeboards too.

review of the Best Kneeboard

1. O'Brien Ion Kneeboard 

O'Brien Ion Kneeboard

The O’Brien Ion kneeboard is a classic yet strong design to help you with the sport on any skill level that you choose. It comes in one size which is fit for all and comes in a competitive quality.

Main Features

The O’Brien ion kneeboard is one of the most relied upon kneeboards that is required for the sport. It comes in one size that fits people of all ages and weights. Users will love the design of this board since it is made for smooth riding on the water and easy maneuvering.

The smoothness ensures speed of the product as well. For added comfort, there is a custom place to fit your knees which is cushioned. 

The product is made with a design keeping in mind the turns that are taken around the water and to make it easier. The board does not halt a pit stop which may seem like fun but is very bad for the internal organs; it is designed to be brought to a smooth standstill.

For another touch of security, sandwich technology is used which enables users to settle themselves and have a strap over them for high security. The price of this item is a little heavy on the pocket, but it worth each penny.

Customer Product Reviews

The board is nimble and fast which makes it great. The size of the strap is huge and makes the product better. The comfort on the knees made my experience better. I love the color and the comfort this kneeboard has to offer

Things We Liked

  • ​Comfort on the knee placing sections
  • A long strap perfect for use for all
  • One size for everyone, no hindrance
  • Smooth stop design
  • Easy maneuvering in the water

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​The strap cannot be tightened or loose
  • No side handles additionally

Verdict

This product gets a 4 out of 5 stars from us. The reason for our verdict is that even after the many comforts it has to offer, it is costly,and it does hold cons that can be avoided. 

​2. Leader Accessories Kneeboard

 Leader Accessories Kneeboard

The leader’s accessories kneeboard is a perfect kneeboard for beginners. It has many exceptional qualities that make it an impressive product to use.

Main Features

The leader accessories kneeboard has very vibrant designs that seem to attract in the first impression. The blue and gold colors are perfect for people that like to go around the water keeping their style intact. 

The design is made with precision and side cuts which ensure that cutting through water is perfect and smooth. The edges also make sure that it remains on the water with a person sitting on it with maximum stability.

The strap on this kneeboard is padded which ensures that it does not dig in the rider's skin and remains comfortable throughout the experience. The beltis also made adjustable so that riders can adjust according to their preference.

A hook is also placed so that beginners will not have found trouble in taking off the kneeboard and the hook will provide assistance. The soft padding on the knee placing area makes the board comfortable and keeps it light on the water.

The lightweight of the board makes it ideal for children to use as well so that if it flips over, it does not hit them over the head.

Customer Product Reviews

This is a great beginners kneeboard and very reasonable too. Durability is commendable since most kneeboards are not very long lasting. It works great for all the members of our family. The sturdiness and balance are great.

Things We Liked

  • ​The lightweight is perfect for children
  • The stability of the water is great
  • Edges are designed to swift through water
  • The padding on the knee part
  • The adjustable strap

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​The strap is adjustable but not very long
  • Design makes the item halt a stop
  • No added side handles

Verdict

 This kneeboard caught our attention with the somewhat reasonable price and great features. A well deserving 4.1 out of 5 stars is what this product stands.

​3. ​Driftsun Charger Kneeboard

Driftsun 2017 Charger Kneeboard

The Charger kneeboard from Driftsun is another one of those products designed for recreational users,and it also comes at an excellent price. The comfortable EVA knee pad board is excellent for softer landings and smooth ride on the water.

Main Features

The Charger is also about comfort with its soft molded EVA pad for knees to provide you with a comfortable ride for long hours. The classic spoon shape doesn't sacrifice any pop off the shake and gives you plenty of pleasure.

The board comes with a V-shaped rounded hull,and you can perform that 360s kneeboarding and 180s with ease and comfort. It is among the best kneeboards for tricks at this price.

It also features reinforced knee strap brackets and roto-molded shell for high durability along with the EPS core. Moreover, it also features an integrated tow hook to handle deep waters well along with a 3-padded adjustable strap.

It is another option where you can enjoy maximum benefits at a very affordable price allowing you to derive the most value from it.

Customer C​​​​ustomers Reviews

I like this board for its functionality. It holds up well. Great kneeboard, 5 stars. I haven’t used it,but my kids loved. I had a few joy rides with it, loved the Charger

Things We Liked

  • ​Molded EVA knee pad
  • Classic spoon shape
  • Integrated tow hook
  • 3-padded adjustable strap

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​The knee area could have been deeper
  • Fairly entry level product

Verdict

The 2107 Charger is designed for the beginners or recreational users so don't expect much from it. However, at this price, it does the basics well is good sturdy kneeboards that will continue to deliver for many years. We give this product 4.2 out 5 rating.

4. Hydroslide Magna Kneeboard

Hydroslide Magna Kneeboard

The HydroslideMagna kneeboard is a bold and reliable design that can be used by everyone in the family. It is loaded with features that make it very tempting to purchase.

Main Features

The HydroslideMagna kneeboard is a perfect kneeboard for kids and adults. The hydro look stands out in the water and helps you maintain your style along with finding the perfect fit for you. The tow point of this kneeboard is high quality and helps keep the kneeboard more stable than ever.

The knee placing area is more comfortable with the EVA pad and is full in size which fits everyone. A padded strap is placed with the product making it more comfortable along with ensuring the required security on the item.

The thin profile design is made so that the ride on the water can be very smooth.  The thin profile also ensures that the product remains light so that it does not hit hard on the head if it flips over.

You can enjoy getting this exceptional design ata meager price which is hard to find in the market. The cost may be low, but the quality of this product remains high and mighty.

Customer Product Reviews

Works well for kids and adults both.This board is great,and it is worth every penny spent. Great price with evenmore significant quality. Works well for everyone in my family

Things We Liked

  • ​Lightweight design prevents injuries
  • The full-size knee well makes sure everyone fits into it
  • Tow point is placedon added stability
  • The thin design which makes the ride smooth
  • The padded strap for comfort and security

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​The belt is not adjustable
  • Edges are not soft to cut through water causing it to flip more often
  • The knee wells are a little uncomfortable

Verdict

For us, this product will get 4.3 out of 5 stars. The low price and exceptional quality are attractive, but this item still has room for a lot of improvement.

5. Driftsun Kneeboard 2017

Driftsun Kneeboard 2017

This kneeboard from Driftsun also feature the standard ¾-inch EVA pad for additional comfort and comes with an integrated hook attached at the front to enable the beginners to take off easily. You don’t have to waste a lot of time in getting up with this board.

Main Features

The kneeboard is very versatile because it is an excellent product for both beginners and advanced users. Moreover, both children and adults can enjoy their rides on this board. It boasts a 3” padded adjustable strap to improve stability without compromising on comfort.

The board also features a beveled edge which makes the board float low in the water and makes cutting faster.

There is a massive benefit of the integrated hook attached at the front as it enables the beginners to take off conveniently and they don't have to struggle to get up. It is one of the best kneeboards for kids,and they will love everything about it.

Driftsun is a very competitive brand that has been producing quality products and decent price,and this kneeboard is not an exception.

Customer Customers Reviews

Why didn’t I find this board sooner?This was my best online purchase. I think this board is for kids only. This board is made to last and good for beginners like me.

Things We Liked

  • ​Beveled edge
  • 3” padded straps for easy adjustments
  • Very versatile
  • ¾-inch EVA pad for extra comfort

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​Not good for advanced users
  • Slightly cheap quality

Verdic​​​​t

The product is designed for the users who just want to have fun on the water and nothing much besides it. At this price, the board delivers great value and it is made for some good recreational family fun. 4.5 out of 5 is the rating of this piece.

​6. O'Brien Radica Kneeboard

O'Brien Radica Kneeboard

Another one from O’Brien comes with an integrated hook, adjustable padded strap, and a ¾-inch EVA pad. It also features quad molded fins and variable beveled edge making it an excellent recreational kneeboard.

Main Features

The Radica kneeboard takes the cues from the industry leading designs of O’Brien and it integrates water-ski and wakeboard designs within. The quad is wakeboard styled,and the fins are cup molded which makes cutting and carving a piece of cake.

Water-ski design inspires the edge angle,and it helps the board to sit low in the water for extra stability. The built-in hook on this board makes getting up very easy and convenient.

All in all, it is a good ride for most of the beginners and intermediate users. If you are looking for some decent family fun, then you don’t have to spend much money on it.

Customer Customers Reviews

Excellent kneeboard for the price. It’s all about family fun. The perfect board, 5 stars all the way. It was my first board and I loved everything about it. It had all what I needed.

Things We Liked

  • ​Quad molded fins
  • Integrated hook
  • Beveled edges
  • Padded strap with adjustments
  • ¾-inch sized EVA pad

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​Basic board with no high-end materials
  • Designed for beginners

Verdict

If you are looking for a basic kneeboard and don’t want to invest much in it, the Radica is the right option for you. As mentioned above, it does the basics right and will give you excellent performance for a long time to come.  After careful review, we give 4.5 points to this kneeboard.

7. O'Brien Voodoo Kneeboard - Best Kneeboard

O'Brien Voodoo Kneeboard

The Voodoo kneeboard from O’Brien comes with a hook,and it is the best kneeboard that you will find on the market. It is equipped with all the features that you will need and also comes at a fantastic price to deliver maximum value. It is one of the best kneeboards for beginners.

Main Features

The Voodoo kneeboard has an integrated hook and comprises of a ¾-inch EVA pad that features adjustable padded strap. It has a variable beveled edge and we can guarantee that only one ride on it will cast a spell on you.

It has a low profile cross-section and high-performance edges make it a suitable ride for almost all type of riders.

The kneeboard also features quad molded fins at both corners along with a hull to provide you with proper control over tracking. The EVA pad maximizes the plush comfort on your knees and the padded strap keeps you in control of your ride at all times.

The best feature of this board is that it offers a good combination of functionality and affordability enabling you to get the most out of it without spending much. 

Customer Customers Reviews

I can’t imagine a better kneeboard then this one. Easily the best kneeboard that I have ridden in years. Great price and high performance. O’Brien has done it again. No need to look any further, highly recommended

Things We Liked

  • ​¾-inch EVA pad
  • Beveled edge
  • Padded strap with adjustability
  • Integrated hook system

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​Not ideal for stunt performers
  • Slightly low-quality materials

Verdict

If you are looking for some recreational activities on the water then O'Brien Voodoo will get the job done for you. It comes at an extremely affordable price and delivers high performance too, therefore; it ends up on the top of our list of best kneeboards. We declare ratings of 5 out of 5 for this kneeboard.

Buying Guide

To enjoy your experience in knee boarding, you need to ensure that you have the right kneeboard. The following guide will help you in determining the focal points that shall assist you in choosing the best kneeboard.

Choose the Right Size

When choosing a kneeboard, you need first to determine who is using it in your family. The size of the board will play a heavy part in the experience that you will get. If you are not targeting one person while buying it, then it is recommended that you get one size that fits all.

They may not seem smart, but match them with a few features like adjustability and they will work for a person of all ages.

Choose the Type of Board

Once you know what size you want, the next step is to determine the type. The two basictypes are the ones that are for recreational purposes and the ones that are made for competitive purposes.

Each one has a few different features that may change the way you use them, so choose wisely. The following are a few details of each kind.

The recreational type: This type is suited for people that like to go for knee boarding for leisure. They use the rotationally molded ones that are easy to use and are more controlled in the water.

The competitive type: The competitive ones are made for greater performance in the water. They are made so that the rider can control it as much as possible. They are lighter in weight so that they are easy to ride in the water and are also designed to react smoothly.

Select the Style of Your Choice

The next step in selecting the best kneeboard for yourself is to choose the style that you want. The style of the board needs to be chosenin the style of your riding. There are two basic styles available that you can choose from:

The Slalom board: this style has sharper edges and is more for smooth gliding through the waters without having to flip over

The trick boards: as the name suggests, this is the kneeboard for tricks that you will need. It has bottom round edges that help in playing them better

Focus On the Knee Wells

Any good or even bad kneeboards will have knee wells that are there to fit your knees and make yourself comfortable before you begin. However, the finest boards will have paid much more attention to this feature.

Make sure that the knee walls are padded and they are made with full attention. The size should be big enough to fit your knees and should have padding which will make it more comfortable for your experience. 

Ensure that the angles of the knee wells that are placed are correct or else it can negatively affect your knees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Customers seemed confused even with the checklists of the focal points. Since there is so much variety with one product only, there are bound to be more questions than ever. To guide you through this, we have answered frequently asked questions about this guide.

All the answers are to the best of our understanding and are for the sole purpose to reduce confusions in the buyers.

Are children’s kneeboards different?

On a recreational level, children can use kneeboards that are one size for all. They are usually bigger but will straps that are adjustable; they can fit into the board easily. They are also made lighter so that in case they flip; they do not cause an injury. However, if your child is competing, then they need to have a custom designed kneeboard that is for children and hold features according to their performance in the sport.

Are nonpadded straps worth the purchase?

If you see a kneeboard that you love and you find the straps do not have to pad, then you should ideally change your choice. If you are adamant about it, then there is no such harm.

The reason behind the padding is to ensure that straps do not dig into the skin and cause a loose grip and lack of comfort. However, if you think you can handle it, then there is no harm in getting a nonpadded one.

How long should the strap be?

The first priority of the strap should be that it is adjustable so that you can tighten it according to your requirements. Some kneeboards have straps that are adjustable but they become useless when they are small in size.

The length is not a fixed portion, but if you are sharing the board with your family, then make sure the biggest person in the family can easily tie it tightly with at least 5” hanging out for safety measures.

What kind of kneeboard should a beginner have?

Beginners’ kneeboards will have a few features that will help you brush your skills to perfection. The right board will help you in achieving this purpose.  Early boards will have wide and soft edges to support the riders have maximum control when they are riding.

The thickness is fairly higher and is hollow from inside so that it floats well in the water. They can be swiftly turned with a smooth glide to help you keep control. Beginner’s kneeboards also have fins which are made for easily twists and turns.

How can I increase the durability of my kneeboard?

Like all proper equipment, this one will also need your time and attention that will help you in making it more durable than it already is designed to be. There may be different instructions,but you can start by ensuring that if you are not using the product, it is in a safe place without direct exposure to sunlight.

You need to make sure that you have a protective case to keep it from scratching and losing its body to the harmful material it is carried along with. When you are done using it, make sure to wash it off with fresh water to remove all sand and saltwater from the product.

CONCLUSION

According to our analysis and assessment, the Voodoo kneeboard from O’Brien turns out to be the winners of this roundup of best kneeboards. The kneeboard is equipped with all the must-haves and it won’t break your wallet in half either.

The Voodoo kneeboard features an integrated hook as well as a ¾-inch EVA pad coupled with an adjustable padded strap. It also has a variable beveled edge and has a low profile cross section paired with high-performance edges, which makes it an ideal ride for most intermediate users and beginners.

Proper control over tracking is ensured by quad molded fins and a hull. The board also has an EVA pad that maximizes the comfort on your knees.

So, there it is, now you have all the information that you will ever need to buy the best kneeboard that meets all your requirements. If you have further queries, you can reach out to us by dropping a message in the section given below. We are here to assist you.

Surf’s up!

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