A wave board is a skateboard-like device that combines the forward movement of rollerblades with the lateral movement of snowboards and the flowing motion of surfboards. It's a fun way to cruise around, and—after you get the hang of it—to show off some cool tricks. This guide will show you how to wave board.

A wave board is a skateboard-like device that combines the forward movement of rollerblades with the lateral movement of snowboards and the flowing motion of surfboards. It's a fun way to cruise around, and—after you get the hang of it—to show off some cool tricks. This guide will show you how to wave board.

• Unlike skateboards, a wave board only has two wheels, which can rotate a full 360 degrees. The board rides on a pair of independently rotating platforms that make it possible to move around without ever touching the ground with your feet. The wave board offers a smooth, controlled ride, and allows you to make quick, tight turns while easily holding your balance. If you're a novice at wave boarding, or are simply curious about how it works, this article is for you.

• Wave boards vary in price, from around $30 at the low end to $150 for a more advanced model. They can be purchased at some retail sporting goods stores, but you should call ahead to make sure the store has them in stock. Don't worry if you live in an area that doesn't offer them; wave boards are readily available for sale online from a number of specialty shops. If you aren't 100% sure if wave boarding is for you, you may want to buy a lower-cost board to get started.

(Creative Commons photo by rusticus80)

• For your first time out, you'll want to follow these steps:

1. Obtain a helmet, knee and elbow pads and wrist guards. Safety first!
2. Find a reasonably flat road that doesn't have car traffic. Bike paths or parks are ideal.
3. Get a partner. Your partner will help you learn how to keep your balance while in motion. You should keep your partner close enough that you can hang on in case you start to slip.
4. Once you feel confident with your stance, have your partner give you a gentle push to start your momentum.
5. Gauge your balance while you're moving. You'll likely be pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to stabilize yourself on the board.
6. Start the S-pattern. The key to moving a wave board is the S-pattern, a motion that feels like you're writing the letter "S" with your feet over and over. The S-pattern keeps the board's rotating wheels in motion and propels you forward.
7. Make a turn. To turn, you simply twist the front panel in the direction you want to go. If you want to make a tight turn, simply twist the back panel in the opposite direction.
8. When you're ready to stop, tilt your front foot while keeping your back foot flat until the board comes to a stop. It will probably start to tip when you're at a stop, so be careful when you're dismounting.

• Once you've mastered the flat road, it's time to have some real fun. Find some mildly hilly areas around town and test your acceleration, braking and turning abilities. Take on progressively higher inclines until you're riding like a champ.

• Many cities have parks where you can race with other wave boarders, skateboarders or rollerbladers. Put your mettle to the test with more advanced riders and push yourself to a higher skill level.

• Feel like a pro? Now it's time for a bigger challenge. Race parks often have ramps where you can tear it up with all kinds of riders. If you're into freestyle, you can try riding on one wheel, doing 180- or 360-degree turns or executing a kick flip.

• Wave boards may seem intimidating at first, but you'll quickly find that they're much more stable and versatile than a skateboard. They're relatively inexpensive and, if you're feeling really creative, you can even build and customize your own. Stay safe and happy riding!

• Introduction
• Step 1: Obtain a Wave Board
• Step 2: Start Practicing
• Step 3: Wave Board on Hills
• Step 4: Racing
• Step 5: Ramps and Freestyle
• Conclusion