Guidance on How to choose your Water Ski Rope and Handle

Competition / Tournament ski ropes are split into sections (between 5 and 10) which enable the rope to be shortened in predetermined lengths during slalom competitions, thus increasing the skill required to complete the slalom course.  These sections can be removed to shorten the length of the rope as you progress and also gives the ability to score higher in competitions with a higher ‘off’. To help make section identification simpler some ropes have ID sleeves and are colour coordinated; perfect for fast adjustment however a five or eight section rope will accommodate most abilities.

Waterski handles are generally 12-13 inches wide.  Easy-Up water ski handles ( Deep V) are available and are aimed specifically at beginners and those leaning he basics of deep water starts on combo skis and more importantly on Mono ski. These are like normal ski ropes but they have the addition of a large extended "V" section that you put the tips of the skis in to keep everything nice and stable during deep water starts. Handle ergonomics is becoming extremely important for many riders. Water ski handles are now made from numerous materials from carbon to aluminium; along with varying EVA foam thicknesses and textures which is all down to personal preference.

Recreational / family skiers can still ski with a larger 15" wakeboarding rope but these lack many of the characteristics required to progress to intermediate standard in skiing.