A brief introduction to water skiing equipment and water skis.
Few water sports provide the challenge and thrill of water skiing. It’s a sport that offers as much fun for beginners as it does for those who get out on the water regularly and provides a new experience each time. To make the most of your time behind the boat, be sure to equip yourself with the best water-skiing equipment and accessories.
Water Skis
While there are various styles of water skis available, depending on your experience and preferred way to ski, West Marine currently offers two styles of skis, which are junior or training style skis and combo skis.
Trainer skis are excellent for children starting out in the sport. They are lightweight and sized to fit kids up to 80 pounds. Their smaller size makes it easier for kids to achieve success when water skiing for the first time and they include a removable training bar that helps new skiers learn proper foot and leg placement.
A two-handle rope adds safety because in the event of a fall, an adult onboard simply let’s go of the rope to ensure the child is not dragged if they forget to let go.
Combo skis are great for sharing among a family because they accommodate a wide range of sizes and abilities. Skis with wider tails will help with balance and starts. Adjustable bindings make for a comfortable ski for just about anyone and boot bindings provide ankle support as you carve the water.
Combo skis can be made from carbon fiber composite or can be injection molded with reinforced fiberglass rods for stability. Fins add maneuverability and stability to your skis.
For further detail on the various types of water skis, read our West Advisor article Selecting a Water Ski.
Water Skiing Accessories.
You can’t water ski without a good tow rope. Tow ropes that are frayed, knotted or otherwise damaged should be replaced. Look for nylon ropes that are rated for the weight of your skier.
A tower boom allows a skier to practice right alongside the boat at a slower speed while an instructor shares tips. The sturdy metal boom attaches to any rigid tubular mount and can help younger or new water skiers gain confidence before going behind the boat.
Safety flags or skier-down flags alert other boaters that you have a skier in the water and are circling back for a pick-up. Keep safety at the top of your mind and always have a flag onboard, even in states where this is not required by law.