HO Sports & Hyperlite Have Landed at Sun Sports+

Posted by Julia Peet

HO Sports + Hyperlite Have Landed at Sun Sports+

If you’ve been waiting for the good stuff to show up… this is it.

The trucks have been rolling in, boxes are getting ripped open, and just like that—our lineup from HO Sports and Hyperlite has officially arrived at Sun Sports+. And yeah, it’s as good as it sounds.

This is the gear that defines summer on the water. Whether you’re chasing glassy morning sets on a slalom ski or dialing in your wakeboard tricks behind the boat, this is the stuff that makes those moments happen.

Let’s start with the roots—waterskiing.

The HO Omni Slalom Ski – One Ski, Endless Possibilities

One of the standouts this season is the HO Omni Slalom Ski. If you’ve been around the sport for a while, you know HO has always been about pushing performance while keeping things accessible—and the Omni is a perfect example of that.

This ski is built to do it all. Whether you’re just getting comfortable outside the wake or you’ve been skiing for years and want something smooth, stable, and responsive, the Omni delivers. It’s designed with a wide platform that gives you easy starts and confidence right out of the gate, but it still holds edge and speed when you want to push it.

Translation? You don’t need three different skis to have a good time. This one covers a ton of ground, and it’s a blast to ride.

New for 2026: Stance Ultralite Binding Series

Bindings matter more than people think. Comfort, control, and how connected you feel to the ski—it all starts there.

That’s why we’re fired up about the new HO Stance Ultralite Series for 2026. These are lightweight, super dialed-in, and built for all-day comfort. HO really focused on reducing weight without sacrificing support, which means less fatigue and more time enjoying your set.

They’ve also improved fit and adjustability, so whether you’re sharing skis with family or locking in your personal setup, you’re getting something that feels custom every time you step in.

Hyperlite: Wakeboards, Surf, and Foil Season Is Here

Now let’s talk about the other side of the dock—wake.

Hyperlite showed up strong this year, and we’re fully stocked with wakeboards, wake surfers, and wake foil packages that are ready to hit the water. Whether you’re learning your first wake-to-wake jump or chasing that endless surf wave, there’s something here for every level.

We’ve got wakeboard setups for beginners looking to get up and ride, all the way to advanced riders who want something aggressive and responsive. Our wake surfers are built for that laid-back, endless summer feel—drop the rope, find your pocket, and just cruise.

And if you haven’t stepped into the world of foiling yet, this is your sign. Wake foil packages are one of the fastest-growing parts of watersports right now, and for good reason. Once you get up and flying, it’s a completely different feeling—smooth, quiet, and honestly kind of addicting.

The Essentials: Ropes, Gear, and Everything In Between

Of course, none of this works without the right setup. We’re fully stocked on wakeboard ropes, slalom ski ropes, handles, and all the small pieces that make a big difference when you’re out on the water.

It’s the kind of gear you don’t always think about—until you need it. And when you need it, you want it to be right.

Ready for Summer Starts Here

This is what we love about this time of year. The shop starts to fill up, the energy shifts, and you can feel lake season getting closer by the day.

The arrival of HO Sports and Hyperlite is a big part of that. It means it’s time to start thinking about early morning ski sets, long afternoons behind the boat, and those perfect glassy nights that only happen in a Maine summer.

If you’re looking for the best waterskis, wakeboards, wake surfers, or wake foil packages in the Lakes Region, you’ll find them right here at Sun Sports+.

Stop by the shop, check out the new lineup, and let’s get you set up for your best summer yet.

Opening Day 2026 is Right Around the Corner

Posted by Julia Peet

There’s something about this time of year that just hits different. The snow is melting, the days are getting longer, and you can feel summer slowly making its way back to the Lakes Region. Around here, that only means one thing—Opening Day is right around the corner.

We’re less than two weeks out from April 24th, and Sun Sports+ is getting ready to open the doors for our 33rd season on the Naples Causeway. Thirty-three years. That number means a lot to us. It’s not just seasons—it’s summers, memories, families, and a whole lot of hard work behind the scenes to make it all happen.

Because what most people don’t see is what goes into getting ready for summer.

This time of year, the shop is anything but quiet. Boxes are coming in daily, floors are getting reset, displays are being built, and every inch of the store is getting dialed in. It’s organized chaos in the best way. We’re unpacking, tagging, cleaning, stocking—and slowly watching the shop come back to life after a long winter.

Our sunglass wall is stacked with all the heavy hitters—Oakley, Smith, Maui Jim, and Ray-Ban are all in and looking better than ever. It’s one of those first signs that summer is close. You throw on a fresh pair of shades, and suddenly you’re already picturing yourself out on the boat.

Clothing racks are filling up too. Rip Curl and O’Neill just landed, bringing that easy, laid-back, lake-life style we all wait for this time of year. It’s the kind of gear you live in all summer long—whether you’re on the water, grabbing ice cream, or hanging on the dock until sunset.

And then there’s the gear. The heart of what we do.

Life jackets are stocked and ready. O’Brien and Connelly products are rolling in—waterskis, wakeboards, ropes, all the essentials for getting out behind the boat. Aquaglide lakefront bouncers and park setups are here and ready to turn any shoreline into the ultimate hangout spot. Wetsuits are in, too, for those early season rides when the water hasn’t quite caught up to the air temp yet.

It’s a lot of moving pieces, but it all comes together for one reason—to get you ready for summer.

This shop has been built over the last 33 years by Harry and Kirsten, who have poured everything into creating something that’s more than just a store. It’s a place people come back to year after year. A place that’s part of their summer tradition. And for the past 11 years, I’ve been lucky enough to be along for the ride—learning, growing, and being part of something that means so much to so many people.

Opening Day isn’t just about unlocking the doors. It’s about kicking off another season of lake days, boat rides, sunburns, and memories you’ll talk about all winter long.

We can’t wait to see familiar faces and meet new ones. Whether you’re gearing up for your first trip out on the water or just stopping by to see what’s new, we’ll be ready.

April 24th. Less than two weeks away.

Summer starts here.

Wakefoiling: The New Way to Ride Behind Any Boat

Posted by Julia Peet

Wakefoiling: The New Way to Ride Behind Any Boat

If you’ve seen someone silently gliding above the water behind a boat and thought, what is that?—you were probably watching a wakefoil.

Wakefoiling is one of the fastest-growing watersports, and once you see it in person, it makes sense why. Riders start in the water like wakeboarding, but once they get up, the hydrofoil lifts the board above the surface. Suddenly, you’re flying—smooth, quiet, and almost frictionless.

It feels completely different from traditional watersports. There’s no bouncing across chop, no fighting the wake—just a steady, floating glide.

One of the biggest advantages of wakefoiling is that you don’t need a wakesurf boat to do it. That’s a huge deal. You can wakefoil behind almost any boat—especially something like a pontoon or a boat with a smaller wake. In fact, many people find it’s actually easier to learn behind a smaller, less aggressive wake.

At Sun Sports+, we carry wakefoils from top brands like Hyperlite, Ronix, and Liquid Force, all designed to help beginners progress while still offering performance for experienced riders.

If you’re new, expect a bit of a learning curve—but once it clicks, it clicks. Most riders start by keeping the board on the water, then gradually learn how to control the foil and lift above the surface.

If you don’t have a wakesurf boat but still want that endless ride feeling, wakefoiling is 100% worth checking out.

Ready to Try Paddleboarding This Summer?

Posted by Julia Peet

Here at Sun Sports+, we’re all about helping you get outside and make the most of Maine’s beautiful lakes and rivers—and this season, we’re excited to bring in one of the most accessible and fun paddleboards on the market: the BOTE WULF Aero Inflatable Paddle Board! Whether you’re new to paddleboarding or just want a reliable, wallet-friendly board for casual lake cruising, the WULF Aero is a game-changer.

Designed with AeroULTRA technology, the WULF Aero is incredibly lightweight yet stable, making it ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking to paddle without the bulk or hassle of a hard board. With a wide 34-inch platform, this board offers outstanding balance and confidence underfoot—perfect for leisurely exploring Long Lake, floating around Brandy Pond, or even practicing yoga on calm mornings. And with MAGNEPOD™ magnetic accessory compatibility, you can secure your drink or speaker right on the board for hands-free enjoyment.

We carry the WULF Aero in two sizes to match every paddler’s needs. The 10’4″ version is lightweight and nimble, great for solo riders up to 250 lbs, while the 11’4″ model offers extra capacity—supporting up to 315 lbs—making it ideal for larger paddlers, tandem use, or carrying gear. Each board comes as a complete kit, including a 3-piece adjustable paddle, coiled leash, removable fin, hand pump, repair kit, and a durable fabric backpack for easy transport and storage. Whether you’re road-tripping across Maine or just heading down to the dock, this board goes where you go—no roof rack required.

Tubing on the Lake: Fun for Everyone

Posted by Julia Peet

Tubing on the Lake: Fun for Everyone

Tubing is a classic lake activity that’s fun for the whole family, from kids trying it for the first time to adults chasing the thrill of a high-speed ride. At Sun Sports+, we carry a variety of towable tubes designed to match your group’s style, size, and comfort level, so everyone can enjoy the ride safely.

Choosing the Right Tube
There are two main styles of tubes to consider: deck-style and couch-style. Deck-style tubes are built for teens and adults who want speed and excitement. They sit closer to the water, which gives riders a thrilling, fast-paced experience while carving across the wake. Couch-style tubes, on the other hand, are perfect for families with young kids. The higher seating position and added stability help younger riders feel secure while still having a blast. Some couch-style tubes even have backrests or handles that make it easier for children to hold on.

Safety First
It’s important to remember that tubing is as safe as the driver makes it. Driving responsibly, keeping communication clear with riders, and adjusting speeds to comfort levels will make the experience enjoyable for everyone. Wearing Coast Guard-approved life jackets is mandatory in Maine for young riders and is recommended for all participants. A well-prepared tube, paired with good driving etiquette, makes tubing a safe, unforgettable lake activity.

See Before You Buy
One of the things our customers love about Sun Sports+ is that all our tubes are inflated in-store. You can see exactly what you’re getting, test out handles, seating, and overall size, and then we’ll pull a brand-new one right out of the box for you. This way, you get the perfect tube every time, without surprises.

Extra Tips

  • Make sure your boat is equipped for towing and check your rope length for the best experience.
  • Rotate riders to ensure everyone gets their turn and stays comfortable.
  • Consider pairing tubing with other lake toys like wakeboards or kneeboards to keep everyone entertained all day.

Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping rides or relaxing family fun, tubing is a great way to enjoy the water and make lasting memories.

Conclusion:
Have questions or need help choosing the right tube? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.

What Is There to Do in Naples, Maine?

Posted by Julia Peet

What Is There to Do in Naples, Maine?

Naples, Maine is a classic lakeside destination packed with everything you want out of a Maine summer. Whether you’re visiting for a week, a weekend, or the whole season, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside, unwind, and enjoy the water.

At the center of it all are Long Lake and Brandy Pond—two of the most popular boating spots in the state. Days here are all about cruising, anchoring up with friends, swimming off the boat, and squeezing in “just one more lap” on the tube before sunset. If you don’t have your own boat, there are rental options nearby, making it easy for anyone to get out and experience lake life.

Off the water, the Naples Causeway is where everything comes together. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening, with local shops, ice cream stands, and waterfront restaurants all within walking distance. Grab a cone, wander the boardwalk, and take in the view—especially at sunset, when the whole place lights up in that classic golden-hour glow.

Naples is also known for its live music, community events, and family-friendly atmosphere. Throughout the summer, you’ll find everything from casual outdoor concerts to busy weekends where the Causeway is buzzing with energy. It’s the kind of place where kids can run around, families can relax, and everyone feels like they’re part of the same lake-day rhythm.

If you’re looking to mix in a little adventure beyond the boat, there are nearby hiking trails, scenic drives, and quiet spots to explore when you want a break from the crowds. But honestly, most people come here for the water—and once you’re out there, it’s easy to see why.

Of course, no trip to Naples is complete without a stop at Sun Sports+. Whether you’re picking up a tube for the kids, grabbing a new pair of sunglasses, or just need some local advice on where to ride, we’re part of the Naples experience. We’ll help you get set up so you can spend less time figuring things out—and more time enjoying the lake.

Conclusion:
Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.

Aquaglide Ricochet Bouncers: Turn Your Lake Into a Floating Playground

Posted by Julia Peet

If you’re looking to level up your lake setup this summer, Aquaglide Ricochet bouncers are about as fun as it gets. These inflatable water trampolines turn any shoreline or swim area into a full-on floating aquapark, and they’re a hit with both kids and adults.

At Sun Sports+, we carry the Aquaglide Ricochet bouncer in 12’ and 16’ sizes, giving you options depending on your space and how many people you want bouncing at once. You can keep it simple with just the bouncer and a loading platform (which makes climbing on way easier), or go all-in and build out a full aquapark with slides, attachments, and additional features.

One of the biggest questions we get is: How hard is it to install? The good news—it’s more straightforward than you might think.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

  • Inflate the bouncer using a high-pressure pump (we’ll help you pick the right one)
  • Attach the anchor lines to the designated D-rings
  • Position the bouncer in your desired water depth (typically 8–12 feet is ideal)
  • Secure it using anchors (sandbags or mushroom anchors work great)
  • Connect your loading platform or additional features

That’s it—you’re ready to bounce.

The key to a great setup is making sure your anchoring is solid and your water depth is appropriate. Once it’s in, it becomes the centerpiece of your lake day. Kids will spend hours on it, and let’s be honest—adults will too.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your waterfront or adding something that guarantees nonstop fun, this is it.

The Portland Boat Show 2026

Posted by Julia Peet

If you’re counting down the days until ice-out and long lake days, we’ve got something to get you officially stoked for summer. The Portland Boat Show is back at the Portland Sports Complex from February 26 – March 1, and it’s the perfect way to shake off winter and start dreaming about boat season.

This is one of our favorite events of the year—and not just because we get to hang out and talk lake life all weekend. The show is family friendly, conveniently located, and offers plenty of FREE parking, which makes it an easy yes for a day out. Whether you’re seriously shopping for a new boat or just looking for something fun to do with the kids during late winter, the Portland Boat Show delivers.

One of the best parts? You can actually climb inside the boats. Open compartments. Sit at the helm. Stretch out on the seats. Imagine yourself cruising Long Lake or anchoring up with friends. If you’re in the market to purchase a boat, this is an incredible opportunity to see a wide range of models all under one roof. You can compare layouts, ask questions, talk to dealers, and gather real information without having to drive all over the state. It’s early enough in the season that there’s plenty of inventory to choose from, and you can get ahead of the spring rush.

And even if you’re not boat shopping? It’s still just plain fun. There’s something about walking through rows of shiny new boats in February that flips the mental switch from winter mode to summer mode. It’s a reminder that dock days, sunset cruises, and tubing laps are closer than they feel.

Of course, we’ll be there—like always—with our Sun Sports+ booth set up and ready to go. You’ll find a curated selection of our favorite tubes, Coast Guard–approved life jackets, watersports equipment, Bogg Bags, and other lake-day essentials. It’s a great chance to see gear in person, ask questions, and start planning what you want behind your boat this summer.

We’ll also be running Boat Show Special Pricing, which means you can save a little money while you’re getting dialed for the season. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your tube, replacing old life jackets, or grabbing a few new accessories, this is a smart time to do it. Early season shopping = better selection and better deals.

More than anything, the Portland Boat Show is about getting excited again. It’s about walking the aisles with your kids and hearing them say, “Can we get this one?” It’s about picturing friends piled into a tube, sunscreen on your nose, and the sound of the engine pulling you into another perfect Maine summer day.

So mark your calendar for February 26 – March 1 at the Portland Sports Complex. Bring the family. Climb inside the boats. Ask all the questions. Start making your summer plans.

Come see the Wizard. We’ll be there.

Portland Boat Show 2026

Posted by Julia Peet

If you’re counting down the days until ice-out and long lake days, we’ve got something to get you officially stoked for summer. The Portland Boat Show is back at the Portland Sports Complex from February 26 – March 1, and it’s the perfect way to shake off winter and start dreaming about boat season.

This is one of our favorite events of the year—and not just because we get to hang out and talk lake life all weekend. The show is family friendly, conveniently located, and offers plenty of FREE parking, which makes it an easy yes for a day out. Whether you’re seriously shopping for a new boat or just looking for something fun to do with the kids during late winter, the Portland Boat Show delivers.

One of the best parts? You can actually climb inside the boats. Open compartments. Sit at the helm. Stretch out on the seats. Imagine yourself cruising Long Lake or anchoring up with friends. If you’re in the market to purchase a boat, this is an incredible opportunity to see a wide range of models all under one roof. You can compare layouts, ask questions, talk to dealers, and gather real information without having to drive all over the state. It’s early enough in the season that there’s plenty of inventory to choose from, and you can get ahead of the spring rush.

And even if you’re not boat shopping? It’s still just plain fun. There’s something about walking through rows of shiny new boats in February that flips the mental switch from winter mode to summer mode. It’s a reminder that dock days, sunset cruises, and tubing laps are closer than they feel.

Of course, we’ll be there—like always—with our Sun Sports+ booth set up and ready to go. You’ll find a curated selection of our favorite tubes, Coast Guard–approved life jackets, watersports equipment, Bogg Bags, and other lake-day essentials. It’s a great chance to see gear in person, ask questions, and start planning what you want behind your boat this summer.

We’ll also be running Boat Show Special Pricing, which means you can save a little money while you’re getting dialed for the season. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your tube, replacing old life jackets, or grabbing a few new accessories, this is a smart time to do it. Early season shopping = better selection and better deals.

More than anything, the Portland Boat Show is about getting excited again. It’s about walking the aisles with your kids and hearing them say, “Can we get this one?” It’s about picturing friends piled into a tube, sunscreen on your nose, and the sound of the engine pulling you into another perfect Maine summer day.

So mark your calendar for February 26 – March 1 at the Portland Sports Complex. Bring the family. Climb inside the boats. Ask all the questions. Start making your summer plans.

Come see the Wizard. We’ll be there.

Wakeboard Rocker Lines: Why They Matter (and What to Choose)

Posted by Julia Peet

If you’ve started looking into wakeboards, you’ve probably come across the term rocker line. It might sound technical, but it’s actually one of the most important factors in how a wakeboard performs on the water. Simply put, the rocker is the curve of the board from tip to tail—and that curve directly impacts how the board rides, feels, and reacts behind the boat.

There are two main types of rocker lines you’ll see: continuous rocker and three-stage rocker.

A continuous rocker has a smooth, consistent curve from end to end. This design helps the board glide more efficiently across the water, giving you faster speed and a more predictable ride. It’s great for riders who want a smooth, flowing feel and easier control when learning how to edge, carve, and cross the wake.

A three-stage rocker, on the other hand, has a more distinct, stepped curve. This creates a flatter spot in the middle of the board, which helps generate more vertical pop off the wake. In simple terms—it gives you that straight-up lift when you hit the wake, which is ideal for tricks and more aggressive riding. The tradeoff is that it can feel a bit slower and less forgiving, especially for beginners.

So which one should you choose?

If you’re just getting started, or teaching friends and family, a board that leans toward a continuous rocker (or a hybrid shape) is usually the best place to begin. It’s easier to control, more forgiving on starts, and helps build confidence quickly.

Boards like the Ronix Vault and Liquid Force Trip are perfect examples of beginner to intermediate wakeboards. They’re designed to be stable, predictable, and easy to ride—making them ideal for learning the basics while still leaving room to progress as your skills improve. These boards help take the frustration out of learning and replace it with more time actually riding.

Another important piece of the puzzle is proper sizing and setup. The right board length, bindings, and stance all play a role in how the board feels under your feet. That’s where we come in. At Sun Sports+, we’ll take the time to make sure you’re matched with the right gear for your size, skill level, and boat setup—so you can get the most out of every set.

At the end of the day, the right wakeboard should make learning feel easier and riding more fun—not more complicated.

Conclusion:
Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.