What Size Water Ski Do I Need?

This is a question that we get a lot at the water ski shop.

The answer really depends on a few factors, such as your weight, height, and skiing experience.

In this blog post, we’ll go over a few things to consider when choosing the right size water ski for you.

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Ski Length

Your weight and skiing ability are the two most important factors in determining what size water ski you need. If you are a beginner, it is best to start with a longer ski. If you are an experienced skier, you can choose a shorter ski.

Height

One factor in deciding what size water ski to buy is your height. For beginners, it is recommended that you start with a longer ski. A longer ski will provide more stability and be less likely to tip over. If you are taller than average, you may want to consider a longer ski. The following table provides suggested lengths based on height.

Weight

An important factor in choosing the right size ski is weight. Heavier skiers will need a longer and stiffer ski for proper performance, while lighter skiers can get by with a shorter and more flexible ski. Use the following chart as a general guideline in choosing the right length ski.

Weight Ski Length
Up to 120 lbs Up to 130 cm
120-140 lbs Up to 140 cm
140-160 lbs Up to 150 cm
160-180 lbs Up to 160 cm
180-200 lbs Up to 170 cm
Over 200 lbs Over 170 cm

Skill Level

As a general rule, the following ski lengths are appropriate for skiers of the following skill levels and sizes:

-Beginners: Under 120 pounds (54 kilograms) – 4 feet 11 inches to 5 feet 2 inches (149 to 157 centimeters)
Intermediate: 120 to 170 pounds (54 to 77 kilograms) – 5 feet 2 inches to 5 feet 7 inches (157 to 170 centimeters)
-Advanced: Over 170 pounds (77 kilograms) – 5 feet 7 inches and up (170+ centimeters)

Ski Width

The width of your ski is just as important as the length. A ski that is too wide will be difficult to control, while a ski that is too narrow will not provide enough stability. The width of your ski should be based on your weight and the type of skiing you will be doing.

Boot Size

Boot size is the most important factor in choosing a ski width. Most adult skiers need a ski that is between 68 and 72 millimeters wide.

Narrower skis are easier to turn and are better for skiing in powder snow. Wider skis are more stable at high speeds and are better for skiing in packed snow.

Ski Bindings

There are a few things to consider when purchasing ski bindings. The three main things to consider are: the size of your ski, the type of skiing you will be doing, and your personal preferences.

The size of your ski will affect the size of binding you need. If you have a wide ski, you will need a wide binding. If you have a narrow ski, you will need a narrow binding. The type of skiing you will be doing will also affect the size of binding you need. If you are going to be doing freestyle skiing, you will need a different binding than if you are going to be doing alpine racing.

Your personal preferences will also play a role in what type of binding you need. Some people prefer bindings that are easier to get in and out of while others prefer bindings that offer more support. You should try out different types of bindings to see what works best for you.

Ski Type

Recreational skis are the most common type of water ski. They are wider than slalom skis and are designed for skiing at lower speeds. Recreational skis are good for beginners and for skiing in choppy water. If you are looking for a ski that is good for wakesurfing, then you will want a ski that is shorter and has a wider tip.

Recreational

If you are new to the sport of water skiing, you may be wondering what size ski you need. The answer depends on a few factors, such as your weight, skiing ability, and the type of skiing you want to do. Recreational skis are designed for casual skiing and are usually shorter and wider than other types of skis. They are also easier to turn and can be used in a variety of different water conditions.

Slalom

Slalom skis are generally shorter and narrower than other types of water skis. They are designed for quick turns and are popular among competitive skiers. Slalom skis are usually between 36 and 42 inches long, with a width of 16 to 20 inches.

Trick

Trick skis are designed for doing flips and other tricks. They’re shorter and narrower than other types of skis, so they’re easier to maneuver. If you’re just starting out, though, you may want to avoid trick skis until you get the hang of skiing.