Aquaplaning (sport)

Aquaplaning, also known as planiboarding or hydroplaning, is a surface water sport in which a participant is towed behind a motorboat, usually at a high speed, while standing on a board. The primary objective is to skim across the surface of the water, achieving the effect of hydroplaning. The board, typically made of wood, fiberglass, or composite materials, is designed with a flat or slightly concave bottom to facilitate this skimming action.

Aquaplaning requires a skilled boat driver capable of maintaining a consistent speed and navigating a safe course. The participant must possess good balance, core strength, and the ability to react quickly to changes in speed and direction. It is a physically demanding sport that requires practice and coordination between the driver and the aquaplaner.

Safety is paramount in aquaplaning. Participants typically wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and helmets are often recommended. A spotter in the boat is crucial to monitor the aquaplaner and alert the driver to any problems. Aquaplaning is generally performed in calm waters, free of obstacles or other watercraft.

While less common than other towed water sports like waterskiing or wakeboarding, aquaplaning maintains a niche following and can be seen as a precursor to those more modern disciplines. Its appeal lies in the simplicity of the equipment and the exhilaration of gliding across the water surface.