John is one of the best all around board riding athletes we know. From Skimboarding, Surfing, Skateboarding, Foiling or Wakesurfing—John excels at all of them.
John Akerman is a world-class professional wakesurfer and a longtime cornerstone of the Phase 5 Wakesurf Boards team, celebrated for his exceptional versatility and technical mastery. A professional skim boarder for our sister brand Zap Skimboards, He also excels at ocean surfing, skateboarding, foiling, and wakesurfing—his multi-sport background creates a uniquely smooth, fluid style with rapid trick transitions and a seamless blend of skim agility and surf flow. As a World Wakesurf Champion, John has been big part in pushing the direction of our sport.
He co-developed the aggressive skim-style MVP (launched in 2017, with ongoing updates like the MVP LTD), redesigned the ocean-inspired Ahi surf-style board (introduced in 2019 and refreshed through 2025–2026), and introduced the new Sensei surf-style board plus his signature Chopstick foil board. These handcrafted Phase 5 staples, continue to push technical boundaries. John maximizes daily water time across disciplines while mentoring riders, training visitors, and inspiring the next generation with his adaptability and positivity. Follow his sessions and insights and see what makes him the ultimate all-around maestro elevating wakesurfing with every ride.
FOR LESSONS, CONTACT: @jaakerman (Orlando/Central FL, will travel)
