Recreation
Double up
When the energy of two waves combines into one larger wave, sometimes used off a turn-around to add power for a hit.
Double up is a term from limnology — the scientific study of inland waters. The detailed explanation below covers the definition, why the concept matters to lake water-quality interpretation, and how it intersects with the LakeGrade rubric. Reading Double up alongside the LakeGrade rubric helps make the rubric's structure intuitive — each grading parameter maps directly onto an established limnological concept.
The per-lake pages on LakeQuality always show the specific Double up value for that lake, so you can move from the general concept to the specific lake without leaving the site.
What It Means for Your Lake
A double up occurs when the power of two waves combines, stacking their energy into a single, larger, more powerful wave. In towed sports a double up is sometimes created intentionally by turning the boat so its wake crosses its own previous wake, producing a bigger ramp for a trick. There is even a hand signal (forefinger and thumb forming an L pointed left or right) to call for a double-up turn. The combined wave packs more punch but is also less predictable, so double ups are used by more advanced riders chasing extra air.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is double up?
When the energy of two waves combines into one larger wave, sometimes used off a turn-around to add power for a hit.
Why does double up matter for lake health?
A double up occurs when the power of two waves combines, stacking their energy into a single, larger, more powerful wave. In towed sports a double up is sometimes created intentionally by turning the boat so its wake crosses its own previous wake, producing a bigger ramp for a trick. There is even a...
Related Terms
The wave thrown off the stern of a moving boat, which the wakesurfer rides; on a properly set-up wake boat it forms a continuous, surfable face.
The top edge or crest of the wave, the powerful upper section where riders throw slashes, off-the-lip turns, and launch airs.
Launching off the lip with the board into the air and landing back on the wake with the nose still facing forward.
A standardized set of gestures the rider and spotter use to communicate speed, direction, status, and stopping over engine noise and distance.
Source: EPA National Aquatic Resource Surveys, 2026.