Water Skis Buying Guide
If you're looking for a challenging new sport 
to add to your summer recreation repertoire, water skiing may be a perfect option. With balance, patience and practice, you can experience great rides and maybe even move toward performing tricks on the water. The key to attaining success is learning not to stand up too early, but to allow the force of the motor boat to simply pull you out of the water. It also helps to have the right skis for your skill level and your skiing style. Check out the following guide for information on the different ski designs available on today's market.
Water Ski Types
There are four main types of water skis available, although combination pairs and slalom skis are the most popular. Your body weight and the speed at which you wish to travel will help you determine which type of skis will work best for you. Longer skis work well if you plan to travel at slower speeds, while longer skis offer greater control at faster speeds. Check out some more details below:
|
|
|
|
|
Combination Skis - Combination pairs are the easiest to learn with because they have wide tips that provide more control. They are also longer than other ski designs, which allows the skier to move more slowly in the water.
- One ski in the pair has a double binding that allows for slalom skiing after you've become a more experienced skier.
|
Trick Skis
- Trick skis are suitable for advanced skiers who wish to conquer jumps, spins and other tricks.
- These skis are short and wide, making them move faster in the water.
- These skis do not have fins like combination pairs do. This makes them more difficult to control, but easier to turn and to slide into tricks.
|
Slalom Skis
- Slalom skis are used for skiing with only one ski.
- They are ideal for making sharp turns and reaching higher speeds because of their short length and wider tail.
- These recreational skis are also easier to get up and ride straight on because of their wide tails and their flat bottom surfaces.
- To recognize intermediate and advanced slalom skis on the shelves, look for a more tapered tail, bevelled edges and a moderately concave bottom (as opposed to flat).
|
Jump Skis
- Jump skis have a highly specialized design that is only meant for ramp jumping.
- These skis are extremely long, with a wide body.
- They are often made of high-tech composite materials which make them strong, yet light.
|
Major Manufacturers
If you're looking for a quality pair of water skis, stick to the popular brands. They've earned their reputations for manufacturing quality products.
Related Guides
