Water Skis
Waterskiing is a fun and challenging water sport that requires strength, stamina, and a good pair of skis! The first step in figuring out what you need is choosing the style that would best suit your ability. As you can see below, there are a few types to choose from.
How to Choose the Correct Size Skis
As far as size, length should be chosen according to your height and weight combined with the average speed you maintain. Speed has to do with several things, namely your skills and the speed of the boat. The guide on the right is a rough guide. You might also want to check out
Goode.com, which has an "AMP" rating that determines the best size and flex for your skis depending on your weight and height.
The Bindings
Skis are nothing without something to hold them to your feet. That's where boots and bindings come in. The boot is what encloses your foot and the binding is what keeps the boot sole and the ski together. The binding consists of a heel and toe plate, while the boot is usually two semi-rigid, rubber flaps that wrap around your foot to provide support and stability. On slalom skis there might be a full boot with two flaps for the front foot and a slipper type boot for the back foot. Depending on your comfort, you may elect to have two full boots instead. Keep in mind that this is the standard for recreational skis. However, advanced skiers who jump and do tricks might prefer a boot that looks more like alpine ski boots with buckles. Sometimes skiers might choose lace up bindings as well.
* '''Sizes''' bindings'>L). Not all manufacturers follow the same rule, but here is a rough guide of
** '''XS''' = 47 Women
** '''S''' = 6.59 Women
** '''M''' = 8.511 Women
** '''L''' = 10.5-13 Men, 11.5 Women
* '''Adaptibility''' Adjustable bindings are best at providing comfort for various users.
The great thing about boots and bindings is that they are relatively inexpensive. So, for example, say you buy a used pair of skis. You can simply replace the bindings and the skis will feel brand new again.
The Details
When talking about water skis you might hear some of the following terms.
'''Flex''' The more flexibility a ski has, the easier it is to turn. The stiffer it is, the faster the ski is. It all has to do with the responsiveness of the ski. It is measured both longitudinally (length) and torsionally (width).
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'''Rocker''' Lay the ski on the floor or another flat surface. The more it rocks from tail to tip (the more curvature the length of the ski has), the more of a "rocker" it has. More rocker will make it easier to turn tightly and less will improve speed but limit turning radius.
'''Material''' Skis can be made of several different types of material, such as magnesium, aluminum, steel, fiberglass, and carbon graphite. Fiberglass and carbon graphite are the lightest, strongest, and most flexible materials.
'''Bevel''' Advanced skiers should choose a sharper edge that increases speed. Rounded edges are best for beginners because it not only slows you down, but it also helps provide control, making it less likely to fall down.
'''Bottom Design''' Choosing either a narrow tunnel or a concave design depends on how you ski. Most likely a beginner will be prone to leaning back more and keeping their legs straight, so they should go for a narrow tunnel. For more advanced skiers who like more flexibility, it may be best to choose a concave design that makes it easier to turn.
Major Manufacturers
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Goode
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O'Brien
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HO
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KD Kidder
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