Water skiers glide across the surface of lakes, rivers and ocean waters using a specially designed pair of skis. By holding onto a tow rope attached to a speeding boat, water skiers can travel as fast as 60 miles per hour, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some skiers even perform stunts and aerial maneuvers using ramps and other obstacles. As you compare different types of water skis, consider factors like size, flexibility and design to choose the best style for your needs.
Step 1
Choose the correct size for your skis based on your weight. According to Dick's Sporting Goods, children under 80 pounds require skis measuring 40 to 52 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide; users weighing 80 to 150 pounds need skis ranging from 66 to 67 inches in length and 6 1/2 inches wide. Those weighing 150 to 200 pounds should choose skis 68 inches long and 6 1/2 inches wide, while skiers over 200 pounds need skis between 69 and 72 inches long and 7 to 8 inches wide. If you have trouble choosing between two pairs of skis, go with the larger pair.
Step 2
Pick the right ski design based on your skill level. Combination water skis are the most widely used, and also the best for beginners, Dick's Sporting Goods advises. Slalom-style skis allow you to ski on one foot at a time, and also help you make fast, sharp turns. Trick skis are designed for jumps and other advanced maneuvers, while jump skis feature a strong, lightweight construction designed specifically for ramp jumping.
Step 3
Visit a sporting goods store to compare the width and shape of various types of skis. According to eBay, wider skis are best for beginners, and can help you stay afloat, while narrow skis helps advanced skiers increase speed and perform tricks. A wide tip makes it easier to get up on the skis when you're starting out, and wide tails help you maintain better control throughout your ride.
Step 4
Examine different types of skis to compare bevel — the profile along the edge of the board. According to eBay, boards with rounded bevels are best for beginners because they help maintain control. Advanced skiers should avoid this round bevel because it decreases speed and makes it more difficult to perform sharp, clean turns. If you're an experienced water skier, choose skis with sharply beveled edges for speed and advanced skills.
Step 5
Ask the staff at your local sporting-goods store about the flexibility or stiffness of different types of skis. According to Dick's Sporting Goods, water skis with a stiff, flat profile allow you to ski faster than flexible, rounded models. Beginners should look for flexible skis, which are slow and easy to control.
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