When it comes to wakeboard towers, the benefits go far beyond style. While aesthetics are a key aspect, our top priority (and that of any quality manufacturer) is delivering a quiet, durable, and universal tower. In this blog, we’ll break down the design and engineering principles that make our wakeboard towers reliable, stable, and perfect for various watersports
Why Controlled Movement Matters
Wakeboard towers are subjected to numerous forces—from road travel to rough waters and big wakes—that can cause movement. But did you know that a certain level of “give” in a wakeboard tower is essential? Without it, the tower could rip from the hull at the mounts. So, while movement is necessary, here at Big Air we focus on designing towers that quickly stabilize after each movement. This balance between flexibility and control is what ensures long-lasting performance and safety.
Key Principles in Tower Design
The stability of a wakeboard tower largely comes down to its shape and stance. Here’s how these aspects contribute to tower performance:
- Triangular Shape for Stability
The triangular design of our towers, which tapers inward towards the top, helps minimize side-to-side movement, increasing overall stability. This shape allows the tower to withstand lateral forces effectively, creating a safer and more reliable experience. - Optimal Front-to-Back Stance
Another critical aspect of our design is the front-to-back stance. We avoid narrow stances because they concentrate stress on a small area, which can damage the hull. Our narrowest stance measures 38 inches, providing ample stability without creating undue stress. Some wake towers on the market have stances under 20 inches, which can require heavy reinforcement to prevent damage. With our towers, you can rest assured that stability comes without compromising your boat’s structure.
Unique Features of Our Wakeboard Towers
Each of our tower models has unique design elements that enhance performance and reduce stress on your boat. Here’s a closer look at two of our popular designs:
- H2O Tower with Heim Joints (this model is no longer manufactured)
The H2O tower features heim joints, which incorporate a “ball” at the end of each joint. This allows for multidirectional movement, which helps disperse stress when the tower moves. The result? A smoother, more flexible connection to the hull, reducing the likelihood of damage or wear over time. - Vapor Tower with Bottom Bar Support
The Vapor tower incorporates a bottom bar that functions as a stabilizing buffer, similar to the heim joints in the H2O tower. In addition to enhancing stability, the bottom bar also adds a sleek design element to the tower, making it both functional and stylish.
Important Note: Not Designed for Inflatables
While our towers are rigorously tested to endure the demands of activities like wakeboarding, wake surfing, skiing, kneeboarding, and more, inflatables create significantly higher levels of stress. Inflatables can exert up to triple the force of these other activities, making it essential to keep them secured at the back of the boat, where the structure is reinforced for this level of strain. If you’re considering towing inflatables, be sure to use reinforced anchor points designed for that purpose. For more details on towing limitations with an inflatable, check out our in-depth blog on this topic [here].
Tested For Reliability
We extensively test all our wakeboard towers to withstand forces beyond what is typical for recreational watersports. From skiing to wakeboarding and kneeboarding, our towers are built to provide exceptional support for you and your gear, making every ride enjoyable and worry-free.
Ready to Upgrade Your Boat?
Explore our full range of high-quality wakeboard towers, crafted for durability, strength, and aesthetics. We have the perfect tower to enhance your boating experience. Visit our product pages for more detailed information on each tower model or contact us if you need help choosing.
