Also called static, stationary, or rapid waves, standing waves most resemble river waves. They are generally formed by pumping water over a firm surface that is shaped such that the rushing water forms a rideable wave. However some standing waves do not move water over a structure and instead have an apparatus to change the shape of rushing water that sits in a larger body of water like a lake. On standing waves, riders can move side to side over a short distance.

Deep-water standing waves have water that is deep enough to make it possible to use regular surf boards with fins of different lengths. Some deep-water waves are big enough for mid-length boards while others only provide a good experience with short boards.

Sheet waves are standing/stationary wave pools that are shallow and only can be used with small, wakeboard or boogie board sized, fin-less boards.