The Best Aftermarket Wakeboard Towers (2021 Value Guide)

Trying to pick out the best aftermarket wakeboard towers can be confusing. Do you want a forward-facing or rear-facing model? Are all frames built equal? To help you answer these questions and avoid wasting your money I wrote this value guide with reviews.

Keep in mind, you get what you pay for. I always follow the adage of “pay now, save later.” By spending the extra bucks for a quality product, you get the best insurance in the long run. Yes, a warranty is nice to have but I don’t like relying on them.

To start, is a detailed comparison table. Second, there are comprehensive reviews of the best universal wakeboard towers. If you prefer to navigate to a specific section, there is a clickable table of contents.

We updated this review article in July 2021 to ensure that the products included meet today’s standards. Two models left due to lack of inventory and were replaced by a models from the Krypt and Reborn brands. Read on to discover the best aftermarket wake towers in 2021.

Outdoors Informed is reader supported. We independently research and rate every product. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. However, our opinions and evaluations are our own. Outdoors Informed does not accept free products from manufacturers. Learn more.

Dan Anderson
July 16, 2021

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What Is a Wakeboard Tower?

A wakeboard tower is a frame mounted to the hull of an inboard boat to elevate a tow point. An elevated tow point is crucial for completing aerial maneuvers while wakeboarding.

This board sport first started in the 1980s. In those days, the tow-line point was at a ski tow/pylon or an eye hook at the stern. As a result, the tow-line angled downwards towards the boat. This made the line pull the rider down instead of up. As the sport evolved, riders wanted a solution to help them pop up off the boat’s wake to increase air time. The marine industry answered with wake-specific boats that are very expensive.

Why Buy Aftermarket Wakeboard Towers?

Not every boater has the high budget to pay a wake-specific boat. For most people, a standard new or used inboard boat for leisure boating is much more affordable. But these boats often don’t come with an OEM option for a wake tower. In these instances’ aftermarket wakeboard towers and accessories are great solutions. This bolt-on wake tower is much more affordable and available in a variety of styles.

Learn More: How To Select Aftermarket Wake Towers

Comparison Chart

Wakeboard Towers 1-3

Click To View Wake Towers 4-6

Wakeboard Towers 1-3

Click To View Wake Towers 4-6

Absolute Best Aftermarket Wakeboard Towers

Photo of a silver colored Krypt Pro Air wakeboard tower

Krypt Pro Air Tower

Universal Fit: Boats Over 16 Feet In Length; 76 To 108 Inch Beam
Finish: Polished Aluminum
Tube Frame Materials: 6061 T6 Aviation Grade Aluminum Frame & Fittings; 360° Swivel Mounts
Fastener Materials: 316 Marine Grade Stainless Bolts & Washers
Tube Size(s): 2.25 Inches
Mounting Location: Either Top, Side Or Angle Mounted
Collapsible: Yes - Folds Toward Aft
Bimini Included: No
Custom Sidebar Design That Follows The Boat's Windshield
Versatile Mounts Swivel 360 degrees To Make Install Easy
Folds Down In 2 Minutes
Warranty (years): 5

Pro's & Con's

Krypt Pro Air Wake Tower Review:

My #1 pick for best all-around aftermarket wakeboard towers in 2021 is the Krypt Pro Air Tower. It grabs top spot because it’s built with the best materials and mimic many factory boat towers. The Krypt Pro Air is a rear sweep tower that offers a classic yet sleek look to any boat. This universal tower fits boats that are over 16 feet (4.88 m) in length with beam widths of 76 to 108 inches. Or 193.04 up to 274.32 centimeters.

Superior Construction

This wakeboard tower is the only model I reviewed that uses actual aviation grade aluminum. This grade of aluminum delivers the best stiffness and corrosion resistance. In fact, the Krypt Pro Air uses a beefy 2.25 inch diameter (6.35 cm) 6061 aircraft aluminum tubes for the entire frame. Plus billet 6061 aluminum for the awesome 360 degree swivel hull mounts.

This is important as many brands claim “6063 T6″ is also aviation grade aluminum” which it isn’t. The numbers 6063 are the universal rating for architectural grade aluminum. This grade of aluminum isn’t bad, its just not as premium as the aluminum that the Pro Air Tower Uses.

Install is pretty easy as you get all the hardware included. While Krypt claims they include instructions, in actuality, many user state they never got them. Although finding instructions online is easy.

Next, for fiberglass boat owners, you need to install backer plates under the boat deck. Are these included? Unfortunately they’re not, but a piece of alloy or plywood works great. In general, most two person teams can get the install job done in around 4 hours.

On The Water

Pulling a rider with this tower is great, its stiff and I didn’t too much shaking in most waters. Although I did see a tiny bit of wobbling in rough choppy waters, but in reality every tower will flex under harsh conditions.

I appreciate the use of a one-piece top section, instead of tube-in-tube construction to increase rigidity. Plus having a dual tube header is great because you can mount a variety of accessories, from speakers to lights.

On top, the swivel tow point rotates smooth and is secure. I also like that the tower folds down for storage or low clearances. It pivots by removing the front screws and loosening the rear screws. While it’s not hard to accomplish I would prefer quick release mounts, so I don’t have to fiddle with tools.

Disadvantages For The Krypt Pro Air Tower?

I just mentioned my biggest gripe with this wakeboard tower, the folding sequence. I wish it came with quick release knobs, although I imagine a DIY boater could come up with a nifty solution.

The next point I want to make isn’t an actual disadvantage but a heads up for fiberglass boat owners. If you buy this tower, you must use backing plates behind the mounting points. Which aren’t included in this tower. Just a note, I would install backing plates to any install, regardless of the construction of a boat. This is because doing so will increase total stiffness.

Verdict:

Want the absolute best aftermarket wakeboard tower? Then you want this one from Krypt Towers, specifically the Pro Air Model. It’s built with ultra premium materials, near silent on the water and looks OEM. Yes, the price is a tiny bit higher than others but you get what you pay for right?!

Sleek Reverse Arch Tower

Reborn Launch Wakeboard Tower

Universal Fit: Boats Over 18 To 24 Feet In Length; 78 To 106 Inch Beam
Finish: Gloss Black Powder Coating (Protected)
Frame Materials: 6063 T6 Architectural Grade Aluminum Tubing; 6061 Aviation Grade Aluminium Fittings
Fastener Materials: Stainless Steel Fasteners
Tube Size(s): 2.25 Inches
Mounting Location: Either Top Or Side Mounted
Collapsible: Yes - Folds Forward Via Quick Release Mounts
Bimini Included: No
Double Header to Support Accessories
Easy To Install With Single Bolt Feet
Warranty (years): 5

Pro's & Con's

Reborn Launch Wake Tower Review:

For wider boat owners in 2021 searching to add aftermarket wakeboard towers, a great choice is the Reborn Launch. This forward-facing tower will fit boats between 18 and 24 feet in length. For international boaters, it fits between 5.48 and 7.32 meters in vessel length. It’s the only wakeboard tower in this review that fits beam widths from 78 up to 106 inches, or 198 to 269.24 centimeters.

6063 T6 Aluminum Pipe Frame

The material for the tube frame of the Reborn Launch is 6063 T6 aluminum in a 2.25 inch (5.71 cm) diameter. This is the most popular metal for mid-range aftermarket wakeboard towers. Its smooth surface, makes it a good fit for anodizing. The 6000 series, uses magnesium and silicon elements but it’s less strong than 6061. As I mentioned in the introduction, 6063 isn’t aviation grade, it’s architectural.

Next, the “T6” indicates “Temper-6” which is a heat-treating process. Tempering metal shifts the inner molecules of the metal, increasing its durability.

Brands use 6063 T6 because it’s less expensive to manufacture, which trickles down to lower the cost to the buyer. The Reborn Launch uses 6063 T6 for the tubes and 6061 for the fittings. It won’t be as strong as complete 6061 towers, but dependent on installation it performs okay in calm waters. To prolong its life, rinse it down with fresh water and maintain connection points.

Like my top pick, this tower can fold toward the stern for storage via easy to use quick release knobs. Its also easy to install and you only have to drill 4 holes in your boat.

Using The Reborn Launch Wake Tower

Installed with backing plates this wake tower does shake a tiny bit but not so much that I was too concerned. On the water though when I was towing a rider this shake dissipated. I do worry about long term use when a tower shakes after install, especially with thinner 2.25 inch (5.71 cm) tubes. Boaters who spend a lot of time in open choppy water will want to do regular check ups on this tower. For calm waters like lakes it seems to perform fine.

The glossy black coating looks good and will protect the frame from corrosion. A bonus for towers with small diameter frames is they will fit off-brand accessories.

Downsides Of the Reborn Launch Tower?

Beyond the less strong and smaller diameter frame, the fasteners could also be better. Reborn uses standard stainless steel hardware, I would upgrade to “316 stainless steel.”

Verdict:

Pick the Reborn Launch if you have a wider boat and want a less expensive forward-facing wake tower. It has a nice curved shape that will be solid and quiet in calmer waters. But it’s best to do regular maintenance to guarantee life expectancy.

Best Budget-Friendly Universal Wake Tower

Origin OWT-I Advancer Wakeboard Tower

Universal Fit: Boats Over 17 to 22 Feet In Length; 68 To 98 Inch Beam
Finish: Polished Aluminum (Oxidation Hazard)
Frame Materials: 6063 T6 Architectural Grade Aluminum Tubing; 6061 Aviation Grade Aluminium Fittings
Fastener Materials: Stainless Steel Fasteners
Tube Size(s): 2.25 Inches
Mounting Location: Either Top Or Side Mounted
Collapsible: Yes - Folds Toward Aft Via Removal Of Rear Vertical Tubes
Bimini Included: No
Simple Install But Note Manual Not Included
Warranty (years): 5

Pro's & Con's

Origin OWT-I Advancer Wakeboard Tower Review:

For wallet conscious buyers in 2021 my pick is for the Origin OWT-I Advancer tower. Its a super basic rear-facing wakeboard tower that will fold for storage. Its best suited for boats 17 to 22 feet (5.18 to 6.70 cm) in length. Beam width that this model fits are between 68 to 98 inches or 172.22 up to 248.92 centimeters.

Two Wake Tower Companies In One

Origin is the same company as Reborn wake towers, so expect a somewhat similar build quality. The OWT-I Advancer has a 2.25 inch (ca. 6 cm) diameter pipe frame made from 6063 aluminum. For fittings, it’s aviation grade 6061 billet aluminum and stainless steel hardware. Keep in mind, the finish for this tower has the least protection. It has a polished aluminum finish, which tends to oxidize fast increasing corrosion. As such, you need to rinse and wipe down tower after contact with salt (brackish) water.

Something about this wake tower that I find hilarious is that Origin claims install is easy. Well, they don’t include paper install instructions so how is it easy? On the box there is a small label with a link to their basic online instructions. But don’t expect to have it installed in under 3 hours and don’t use thread locker until you are completely done.

If you plan to add speakers, this tower only support a max of two. Routing of wiring is also problematic as you can’t route speaker wiring all the way through the tubes. The wires need to go out and back in due to the upper bracket joints. Otherwise, this frame will fit universal accessories for many wake brands.

Origin OWT-I Advancer: Expected Performance

The OWT-I wakeboard tower is a multi-piece tube-in-tube design. As a result, I noticed some noise and rattling out on the water. For this low price though, it performs as expected and you do get a collapsible tower. You can fold the tower by disconnecting the rear mounts, loosen front mounts and pivot toward the stern.

If you want shade, Origin sells a flat Bimini, or choose the special combo package. Since Origin uses smaller diameter pipes the frame is very versatile for off-brand accessories. Beyond two speakers, it will fit wakeboard racks, driver’s mirror and more. On top the swing mount works good but I wish there was an integrated navigation light.

Verdict:

Sticking to a budget or have an older boat that doesn’t need a flashy sleek tower? A good pick is the Origin OWT-I Advancer tower, designed with low storage in mind. As a basic tower it isn’t super stiff but for the price it’s a decent performer. Plus, it has a 5-year warranty for peace of mind.

Top-Rated Combo Tower & Bimini Package

Photo of a silver and navy colored Reborn Catapult wake tower & Flat Bimini

Reborn Catapult & Flat Tower Bimini

Universal Fit: Boats Over 16 Feet In Length; 76 To 106 Inch Beam
Finish: Polished Aluminum
Tube Frame Materials: Seamless 6063 T6 Architectural Grade Aluminum Tubing; CNC 6061 Aviation Grade Aluminum Fittings
Fastener Materials: M12 & M10 Stainless Steel Hardware
Tube Size(s): 2.25 Inches
Mounting Location: Either Top Or Side Mounted
Collapsible: Yes - Folds Toward Aft
Bimini Included: Yes - Black or Navy Colored Flat Bimini
Fully Adjustable Tower, Can Slide Forwards Or Backwards For Minor Adjustments
Remove Bimini For Towing Via Easy To Use Zippers
Folds Down For Safe Storage & Towing
Warranty (years): 5

Pro's & Con's

Reborn Catapult & Flat Bimini Review:

My runner-up pick for 2021 is this great package of the Catapult wake tower and flat Bimini from Reborn. This package is great for vessels in length from 16 to 25 feet with beam widths of 76 to 106-inches. In metric this measures between 193.04 up to 269.24 centimeters. Also the side bars measure 65-inches between front and rear mounts. Users love the value to cost ratio and the convenience of this combo.

Adaptable Frame

I like that Reborn decided to design a frame that slides forward and backward. This aids in making small adjustments during the installation. As a mid-range tower the tubes are seamless 2.25 inch 6063 T6 architectural grade aluminum. Don’t mistake their claim that “6063” is aviation grade though, because it’s not. Where they do use aviation grade aluminum is for the fittings. Which is great as this is an area that sees a lot of stress. So the added strength is a bonus

Included Protection From The Sun

Included with the tower is the Reborn “flat Bimini,” this is a one piece acrylic sun shade. It’s available is either black or navy and is 75-inches in length. Width size, depends on your the installed width of your tower. That’s the caveat of this package, you need to install the tower first then tell the shop what size Bimini you need.

How do I find the measurement? Measure across the boat between the front legs and between the rear legs at the height you want the Bimini to sit.

If your measurements are between 53 to 62-inches, order the order size small Bimini. Actual dimension of the size are: 1.35m (W) x 1.9m (L) or 53in (W) x 75in (L), 1.35m (W) x 1.9m (L).
For measurements 63″ or above you want a size large. The total dimensions are: 62in (W) x 75in (L), 1.58m (W) x 1.9m (L).
If the measured width is less than 53-inches, you have to install the tower Bimini above your tower top. For this, you should order large size Bimini. Plus you need to order a pair of lifting brackets as they are not included in the standard package.

Any Downsides?

Yes, the less strong frame and needing to order the Bimini after initial installation. Plus I wish they included better fasteners. Reborn uses standard M12 and M10 stainless steel hardware. I recommend to upgrade to “316 stainless steel.” Also the tower isn’t pre-drilled for wiring meant for speakers or lights. Which is a nuisance for some boaters. Lastly, you need to add extra backing plates under the boat deck, this is critical for decks less than 1-inch thick. Not doing so risks crack damage to the gel coat.

Verdict:

If you want to skip researching for separate a tower and Bimini, this is a good solution. This all-in-one package provides a mid-range tower and big sun protection at a decent price. But expect to wait on the Bimini until after you install the tower. Although the performance to cost is worth it, especially for vessels 16 to 25-feet in length.

Affordable Tower & Bimini Package For Boats Under 22-Feet

Photo of a silver colored Origin Advancer Wakeboard Tower With Black Binimi Top

Origin Advancer Wakeboard Tower Plus Flat Bimini

Universal Fit: All Boats With 68 To 98 Inch Beam
Finish: Polished Aluminum (Oxidation Hazard)
Frame Materials: Seamless 6063 T6 Architectural Grade Aluminum Tubing; 6061 Aviation Grade Aluminium Fittings
Fastener Materials: Stainless Steel Hardware
Tube Size(s): 2.25 Inches
Mounting Location: Either Top Or Side Mounted
Collapsible: Yes - Front Legs Pivot Forward; Rear Swing Backward
Bimini Included: Yes - Flat Under-The-Top Bimini (Black)
Marine Grade VIII, UV resistant Bimini Top
Designed With Low Storage In Mind
Warranty (years): 5

Pro's & Con's

Origin Advancer Wake Tower With Bimini Review:

For 2021 the Origin Advancer with Bimini is the best combo package due to its total value. I’ve already reviewed the tower so this review covers the Bimini and its support system. This one in this package is a specific under-the-tower model that’s black.

Sizes Available

This package offer two sizes of Bimini’s dependent on the width of your boat’s beam. Once you order this package, Origin will first send you the tower. After you mount it, you measure the inside diameters of the tower and communicate your findings to Origin. Then they send you the right-sized Bimini top.

If the measurements are between 53 and 62 inches (134.62-157.48 cm) of space, order “1350v” small size. The actual dimensions of a small is:

4.42 Ft(W) x 6.23 Feet(L)

If you measure between 63 and 82 inches (160.02-208.28 cm) order the “1580” large size. Below are its dimensions:

5.18 Feet (W) x 6.23 Feet (L)

Construction & Performance:

The material for the Bimini structure is 1-inch bright-dipped anodized aluminum. Which is a bonus because the actual tower frame is only polished 6063 extruded aluminum. All this means is the tower needs significant more cleaning than the structure for the Bimini.

You can choose where to secure the support arms, either at the front, rear, above or below. Plus the top is adjustable, sliding forwards or backwards for minor adjustments. The main cross bar is pin adjustable and clamps 6061 polished alloy. Again with the polished alloy (aluminum), be sure to clean this area as well to prevent rusting. These clamps can fit 2.5, 2.25 and 2″ diameter pipe frames, so the fitment is very versatile.

For the actual Bimini cover, it looks like an off-brand Sunbrella material. Origin states it’s a genuine marine grade VIII, UV resistant material which is a step down from actual Sunbrella. I like that the cover attaches via zippers and Velcro, which is easy for removal when storing the boat.

On to performance, does it provide shade? Yes, but the best part of this Bimini and its structure is the extra strength it gives the tower. Alone this tower isn’t terrible but it could use improvements to reduce noise and shaking. Adding the Bimini actually does a great job at fixing this.

Verdict:

For boats up to 22 feet (6.71 m), with a beam width of 68 to 98 inches (173 – 248.92 cm) it’s a good deal. For the price it’s always better to buy a package than the tower and Bimini on their own. Anyone considering buying a wake tower, will eventually want a Bimini too. Adding a Bimini to this tower also increases strength, plus you can add a wide range of universal accessories.

Excellent Mid Range Wakeboard Tower

Krypt Towers Indy Liquid Wakeboard Tower

Universal Fit: Boats 17 To 25 Feet In Length; With 70 To 102 Inch Beam
Finish: Black Powder Coating (Protected)
Frame Materials: Seamless 6063 T6 Architectural Grade Aluminum Tubing; 6061 Aviation Grade Aluminium Fittings
Fastener Materials: 316 Marine Grade Stainless M12 Bolts & Washers
Tube Size(s): 2.25 Inches
Mounting Location: Either Top Or Side Mounted
Collapsible: Yes - Folds Toward Aft Via Removal Of Rear Vertical Tubes
Bimini Included: No - Bimini (Over Or Under Top) Sold Separately
Double Top Bars Are fully Welded For Superior Strength
Thick 3 mm Walled Tubing With Hidden Fastener Connections
Warranty (years): 5

Pro's & Con's

Indy Liquid Wakeboard Tower Review:

In 2021, the Indy Liquid is a great mid-range rear-facing wakeboard tower. It sits right in the middle of the pack price wise. The same can be said for the towers’ performance, it’s a step up from the Origin but a bit lower quality than the MT2.

The Indy Liquid tower fits vessels 17 To 25 feet (5.18-7.62 m) in length. With a beam width of 70 to 102 inches or 177.8 to 259.08 centimeters. This specific tower is a rear-facing model that is black power coated. Power coating is a high-quality finish that prevents corrosion and delivers minimalist looks.

I like that its strong enough for the cost, shaking/noise is minimal, and it folds for storage. Install seems easy, consider it as a DIY project that will take around 4/5 hours.

Popular Wakeboard Tower For 10 Years

Indy has been selling Liquid since 2010. It’s designed to close the gap between Universal fit and OEM towers. For materials, the frame is 6063 seamless aluminum. The pipes are 2.25 inches (5.71 cm) in diameter and 3 mm thick, fastened with CNC 6061 solid aluminum fittings. These materials are pretty strong and reduce rusting, but will need regular maintenance. On top, is a solid welded double bar top section for rock solid strength when towing your friends and family.

Unlike other brands that skimp on the hardware, Indy uses the best bolts and washers available. Supplying boaters with 316 grade stainless steel M12 bolts and washers. This high-quality hardware is the most corrosion-proof hardware for marine environments.

“Cleanest” Looking Wake Tower On The Market

On first look this universal wake tower is by far the closest to an OEM tower. This is because it’s the only tower that has hidden connections, so no exposed bolts.

Another bonus is the patented rotating deck mounts. With these there’s no need for exact alignment like all other brands to allow for folding. The mounts will rotate under pressure to let the tower to pivot and lower flat, almost anywhere you install it. For ease of installation you can mount on the top or side of your boat.

Having hidden fittings and sleek hull mounts creates a near factory tower appearance. An added bonus is that the height from tow point to mount position is about 55 inches (1.4 m). This is more than enough to help riders pop off the wake to create big aerial tricks.

Downsides Of The Indy Liquid Wake Tower?

As a mid-range aftermarket wakeboard tower, the Indy Liquid ticks off a lot of boxes. Yet there is one issue, top mounting can create an interference issue when folding the tower. Indy designed the tower to lower via the front legs toward the stern. If you top-mount the front legs too far in the bow section, they may rest on the frame of the windshield when folded down. No one wants a damaged windshield. A solution for this could be to mount as close as possible to the outside edge of the boat or side mount.

Also, to fold the frame you need to use tools to remove the rear vertical legs. I’d prefer a quick release knob for convenience but I suppose Indy did this to ensure stiffness during use.

Verdict:

Pick the Indy Liquid tower if you want an excellent mid-range rear facing tower. It has the strength and height to deliver great wakeboarding. You just have to be aware the if you need to top mount it, it might interfere with your windshield.

Final Thoughts

Now picking aftermarket wakeboard towers shouldn’t be hard. Choose the best wakeboard tower you can afford. Remember that 6061 T6 aluminum is always preferred over 6063 aluminum. Finishes matter too, anodized and powder coating will always perform better than simple polish aluminum. That’s it, find a wake tower that fits your specific style of boat and budget.

Finally, thanks for letting Outdoors Informed help with your research. We enjoy helping out, so you can spend less time indoors and more doing big aerials!

The Best Aftermarket Wakeboard Towers (2021 Value Guide)

What Is a Wakeboard Tower?

Why Buy Aftermarket Wakeboard Towers?

Comparison Chart

Absolute Best Aftermarket Wakeboard Towers

Krypt Pro Air Wake Tower Review:

Superior Construction

On The Water

Disadvantages For The Krypt Pro Air Tower?

Verdict:

Sleek Reverse Arch Tower

Reborn Launch Wake Tower Review:

6063 T6 Aluminum Pipe Frame

Using The Reborn Launch Wake Tower

Downsides Of the Reborn Launch Tower?

Verdict:

Best Budget-Friendly Universal Wake Tower

Origin OWT-I Advancer Wakeboard Tower Review:

Two Wake Tower Companies In One

Origin OWT-I Advancer: Expected Performance

Verdict:

Top-Rated Combo Tower & Bimini Package

Reborn Catapult & Flat Bimini Review:

Adaptable Frame

Included Protection From The Sun

Any Downsides?

Verdict:

Affordable Tower & Bimini Package For Boats Under 22-Feet

Origin Advancer Wake Tower With Bimini Review:

Sizes Available

Construction & Performance:

Verdict:

Excellent Mid Range Wakeboard Tower

Indy Liquid Wakeboard Tower Review:

Popular Wakeboard Tower For 10 Years

“Cleanest” Looking Wake Tower On The Market

Downsides Of The Indy Liquid Wake Tower?

Verdict:

Final Thoughts

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