Axis Wake Blog

What Is Power Wedge®III — And Why It Matters for Wake Boat Performance

Written by Axis Wake | Sep 9, 2025 8:45:00 PM

When you buy an Axis, you’re not just buying a boat — you’re buying a wakesurfing and wakeboarding machine. Axis boats are engineered to throw perfect wakes and waves, and one of the biggest reasons why is the Power Wedge® III.

This patented performance feature is one of the keys to Axis’ industry-leading flexibility. Whether you’re learning your first surf carve or going huge on a wakeboard, Power Wedge® III gives you the ability to fine-tune your wake with the tap of a button.

WHAT IS POWER WEDGE® III?

Power Wedge® III is a patented hydraulically-deployed reverse hydrofoil permanently mounted at the stern of your boat. Originally developed by Malibu Boats — the world's #1 towboat manufacturer — Power Wedge® III now comes standard on every Axis model.

When not in use, Power Wedge® III is safely stowed underneath the swim platform, in a horizontal position. This ensures that it is out of the way when launching the boat and when putting it back on the trailer, and it ensures that it does not cause any unnecessary drag in the water when not actually needed. When deployed, Power Wedge instantly shapes the wake, adjusting boat pitch and simulating up to 1,500 lbs of additional ballast to create a customized wave length and shape for riders of all abilities and levels.

WHAT DOES POWER WEDGE® III DO?

In simple terms: Power Wedge allows you to customize the size and shape of your wake or wave in real time.

  • Adds size & weight: Instantly simulates up to 1,500 lbs of ballast.

  • Optimizes takeoff: Helps the boat get on plane faster.

  • Real-time control: Adjust on the fly through the dashboard or even directly from the rider’s Surf Band®.

  • Seven positions: Drop it farther into the water for more push, or retract it for smaller, friendlier wakes.

Power Wedge® III is activated through the user friendly settings on your boat's dashboard where you can choose between 7 positions. Use the pointers below as a guide for how to choose the right setting for your rider. 

UNDERSTANDING THE SEVEN POWER WEDGE® III POSITIONS

Power Wedge® III offers seven different settings that you can activate through the user-friendly controls on your boat's dashboard. Each position changes how the wedge sits in the water, which directly affects the shape and character of your wake or wave.

Lift Mode

Lift Mode is the fully deployed position where Power Wedge III sits deepest in the water. In this position, the wedge helps lift your hull out of the water, reducing drag and improving your boat's planing efficiency — which means you're burning less fuel and getting on plane faster, even with a full load of ballast.

Lift Mode automatically activates when your boat's speed rises above surf speed, but you can also engage it manually at lower speeds. When activated at lower speeds, Lift Mode decreases the amount of hull in the water, creating a smaller, more approachable wake that's perfect for beginner riders and skiers.

POSITIONS 1-6: DIALING IN YOUR WAKE

Once you're ready to surf or board, you've got six active positions to choose from—and here's the key to understanding them:

Lower numbers (1-2) = Longer, more mellow wakes and waves

These settings are ideal for beginners or riders who want a forgiving, drawn-out wave with plenty of room to maneuver. Setting Power Wedge III to position 1 or 2 creates a nice long pocket with a mellow face that's easier to ride.

Mid-range positions (3-4)

These settings offer a sweet spot between mellow and aggressive, giving you versatility to fine-tune based on rider preference, ballast levels, and riding style.

Higher numbers (5-6) = Shorter, steeper wakes and waves

As the Power Wedge moves toward position six, the wave gradually gets steeper and more powerful. Advanced riders looking for aggressive push and a technical face will love these higher settings.

The beauty of Power Wedge® III is that there's no one "correct" setting. Really, it's all about what feels right for your crew. Start somewhere in the middle and adjust from there. And if you're wearing your Surf Band®, you can tweak your settings in real time without ever shouting at the driver. Regardless of which position you choose, your wake or wave will still have that perfect, clean shape you expect from all Axis Boats.

WHY POWER WEDGE® III MATTERS

Power Wedge® III is more than a gadget - it’s what makes an Axis boat so versatile.

  • Riders of all skill levels can get their perfect wake, from mellow learner waves to steep, pro-level ramps.

  • It saves time by eliminating complicated setup or endless manual adjustments.

  • It boosts fuel efficiency when you’re not surfing or wakeboarding.

  • And it gives Axis owners serious value, because you’re getting Malibu-engineered wake technology at an Axis price point.

POWER WEDGE® III: THE AXIS ADVANTAGE

When you choose Axis, you’re choosing a boat designed to deliver world-class performance and unbeatable fun. With Power Wedge® III at your fingertips, you can customize your wake like never before - and unlock the full potential of your Axis.

Ready to see what Power Wedge® III can do for you? Head over to our online Build a Boat to start designing your perfect Axis. Your best sessions yet are waiting - it’s time to Go All Out®.