With its bulky tower, clean core graphics and rear ballast setup, this direct-drive is the perfect way for the pleasure-cruising family to get into wakeboarding. Less than 20 feet long, the X-7 is a nimble multisport performer with standout handling that’s best suited to calm conditions. Yet despite the X-7’s compact proportions, MasterCraft has squeezed every centimeter of space out of the interior, stretching the observer’s seat all the way to the comfortable driver’s seat and engineering a convertible rear bench that’s perfect for a day of lounging and rider watching.
HULL: MasterCraft realizes that not everybody on the lake needs the pro-level wakes of an X-Star. After all, everybody has to start somewhere, and the recreational-size wake churned up by this multisport direct-drive is the perfect starting line for eager kids and newbie riders. Plus, thanks to MasterCraft’s high-quality construction, you can rest assured that the X-7’s reliable tracking and turning will stay true for years to come.
BALLAST: The standard 450-pound rear bag helps this direct-drive churn up firm, nicely shaped wakes that are great for recreational-level moves and downright welcoming for beginners.
TOWER: The ZeroFlex is as aptly named a tower as there is. Its wake-specific design makes it unflinchingly stoic through rollers and double-ups. The standard tight-clamping board racks swivel in and out of the boat, so retrieving and stowing your board is a snap. Bonus: The tower’s swooping design will make you the envy of the lake.
THE WAKE
Wakes behind the X-7 are on the smaller side, which is to be expected from a boat this size. What we didn’t expect were the nicely shaped ramps that give plenty of hang time to beginner and intermediate riders when the standard rear ballast is full.
SPECS
PEOPLE: 6
DRY WEIGHT: 2,800 LB.
BALLAST: 450 LB.
