Getting out in the water is one of the joys of the hot summer months. There’s surfing, wakeboarding, and water skiing where you're pulled along by a speedy boat. Whether you are headed to a dam, river, or out on the sea, the right water skis will make all the difference and unlock some great fun.
The first water skis, which date back to 1922, were invented right here in the United States. Early versions consisted of two planks of wood with leather straps to secure your feet. It wasn’t until the 1970s that materials like fiberglass entered the picture allowing for faster and more responsive water skis. These days, fiberglass is still a key component along with graphite and other manufactured materials.
Water skiing can be done on one ski (slalom) if you're more advanced, or two (combo) skis, which is typically for beginners. And don’t forget about a life vest, another essential for your day on the water. Following are recommendations for the water skis best suited for you and your family.
What to Look for in Water Skis
There is a wide variety of water skis used for a range of specific purposes. Consider not only your weight, but your ability, ski type, materials and alsot he boat you will use and speed that you typically ski at. Smaller engine boats sometimes battle with pull off so wide forebody skis like the Connelly Eclypse combos really help get started.
Weight and Size
Most water skis for adults range in size from 59- to 72-inches long, except for trick skis, which are shorter. In general, riders who weigh 45 Kgs or less will do best with a ski that’s between 59- and 63-inches; those in the 45kg- 75kg weight range may want to consider skis between 63- and 66-inches long; riders from 75kg - 95kg are best suited for skis from 66- to 68-inches long; and those over 95kg and up typically need skis from 68- to 72-inches long and should consider the wider forebody options.
Note that several factors in addition to weight may influence the size ski you ultimately choose, including boat speed, whether you're buying combo skis or a slalom ski, and your build.
Skier Ability
For beginners, or those who are purchasing skis for family and friends, you’ll want a set of combo or training skis. Look out for the ski's which include the removable training bar like the Connelly Quantums or Obrien All Star Trainers for Kids.
Ski Type
The majority of water skis recommended below are combo, trainer, and slalom which are the most popular types on the market. There are more specialized types of water skis as well.
Combo/Trainer
Beginner water skiers will want combo or trainer water skis. These come in pairs. Trainers, typically offered for younger ones, are connected with stabilizer bars to help keep children's feet together as they learn how to waterski. Combo skis usually have one ski with two bindings and a second with a single binding. This allows the ride transition from two skis to one as someone gets more comfortable water skiing.
Slalom
Slalom skis are sold as singles and have two bindings. They’re intended for intermediate to advanced water skiers who like playing in the wake, going fast, carving, and maybe doing some small jumps or tricks.
Trick
Trick water skis are smaller, fatter, and rounder than other water skis. They usually have a flatter bottom which allows the rider to glide over the water whether going forward, backward, or sideways. Sometimes these are sold in pairs, other times they’re sold as a solo ski. Note: Trick skis don’t have fins (more on that below). On solo trick skis, the rear binding is canted at an angle, much like on a snowboard, to allow for better positioning during tricks.
Jump
Jump skis are specialized, longer and wider planks, like their snow counterparts. They’re made for stability under speed and maximum lift.
Materials
Water skis have come a long way since those original pine planks. Today they’re composed of a variety of buoyant materials, including polyurethane foam, fiberglass, graphite, and carbon fiber. Fiberglass is found in many water skis. High-end, more expensive water skis will consist of layers of graphite and/or carbon fiber, which can enhance ride quality and shock absorption.
So without further ado here are our picks for season...
Best Adult Combos
Best Kids Trainers
Best Junior Trainers
Jobe Shark Trainer
Best Intermediate Slalom
Best Advanced Slalom
Best Expert Slalom
Best Novelty Ski