Shopping For Water Skis
2008 Buyer's Guide: Accessories
by Randy Scott
Why You Need Them
A boat without water skis is like cookies without milk — you’re just not getting the full
enjoyment from the experience. Waterskiing ranks as one of the most popular watersports. Regardless
of your skill level, it’s fun and great exercise. And even if you don’t ski, chances are good that
someone you take out on the water with you will, and you’ll feel like a better host if you have a
ski or skis with you. Parents and grandparents will likely get as much pleasure from seeing a child
delight in waterskiing as the child does participating in the sport.
Connelly Pilot (top) and Prophecy
What You Need To Know
There are four basic types of water skis: combos (two skis), slalom (single ski), trick and
jump. Trick skis are small finless skis for performing tricks, while jump skis are designed
specifically for jumping ramps. Both require intermediate to advanced skiing ability. The vast
majority of skis are combos and slalom. Combos have wider tips and are usually preferred by
beginners because they’re easier to get up on. Some have a rope connecting the two skis to
facilitate learning. Most combos have one ski with dual bindings so the beginner can make the
transition to slalom skiing. Slalom skis are for carving tight turns and jumping wakes.
Slalom skis generally range from 63 to 70 inches long. The more you weigh and the faster
your speed, the longer your skis should be. Wider skis provide more stability and easier starts,
but are less maneuverable. Bindings are also important to your performance. High-wrap, fixed
bindings provide the greatest control, but if skiers with different-sized feet will be using the
ski, go with adjustable bindings. If your skiing style is to stand straight or lean back, a
narrow-tunnel bottom is best.
But if you tend to bend your knees and put your weight forward, a concave bottom is better
suited for you.
Rocker, the amount of ski curvature, affects your skiing too. More rocker means better
turning, while less rocker means faster speeds. A ski’s degree of flex is another factor to
consider. A stiff flex will increase speed, but if you want to negotiate quicker turns, go with
more flex. Finally, a ski with a sharp bevel edge maximizes lift and increases speed, but is more
difficult to control than a ski with a rounder bevel.
O'Brien Prima and Sixam SS
The Final Word
Don’t get more ski than you need. Simply buying a professional-level water ski won’t make
you ski like a professional. Purchase a water ski for your present skiing ability and hone your
skills. Then step up to a higher-end ski.