Beginner Water Skis

Over the last few years, water skiing has become one of the most popular summer activities. It is easy to understand why it is a great experience and an interesting way to spend a regular day out on the water. This type of activity can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. We know that the market for skis is well saturated, so in order to help you find the right pair of water skis, we have gathered 12 models that will surely meet and exceed your requirements. Check out our comparison table below and opt for the model that satisfies your needs.

Top 12 Beginner Water Skis Comparison

Photo	Water Skis	Price
Best Overall	1. O’Brien Reactor Combo Length: 67/ 170 cm Weight (lbs.): 17.5 Construction Material: Composite construction Number/Type of Bindings: 700 adjustable bindings Foot size: 4.5 to 13 Fin: Plastic	Check Price
Our Choice	2. Airhead WIDE BODY Combo Length:54-inch Weight (lbs.): 18.3 Construction Material: Composite/foam core construction Number/Type of Bindings: Dual density adjustable bindings Foot size: 5 to 12 Fin: Fiberglass reinforced nylon	Check Price
Best Beginner Water Skis for Kids	3. CWB Cadet Combo Length:2 x 45/115 cm Weight (lbs.): 7 Construction Material: Composite construction, high gloss UV coat Number/Type of Bindings: No information available Foot size: 1 to 4 Fin: Glass filled nylon	Check Price
	4. Hydroslide Victory Combo Length:66-inch Weight (lbs.): 17 Construction Material: Composite construction Number/Type of Bindings: Slide Adjustable Bindings Foot size: No information available Fin: Plastic	Check Price
	5. Airhead S-1300 Combo Length:67-inch Weight (lbs.): 18.5 Construction Material: Composite construction Number/Type of Bindings: Slide-type adjustable bindings Foot size: 5 to 12 Fin: Fiberglass reinforced nylon fins	Check Price
Best Beginner Water Skis for the Money	6. AIRHEAD AHST-150 Length(in.): 48-inch Weight (lbs.): 11 Construction Material: Composite/ wood construction Type of Bindings: Adjustable bindings Foot size: 12 , 5 Fin:Fiberglass-reinforced nylon	Check Price
	7. Airhead Wide Body Combo 65 in. Length(in.): 65.5-inch Weight (lbs.): No given information Construction Material: Composite / foam core construction Type of Bindings: Adjustable bindings Foot size: From US sizes 5 to 12 Fin: Fiberglass reinforced nylon fins	Check Price
	8. CWB Supersport Combo Waterskis Length(in.): 2 x 425 sq. in. Weight (lbs.): 11.02 lbs. Construction Material:Reinforced composite Type of Bindings: Slide- adjustable binding Foot size: No given information Fin: Glass filled nylon fin	Check Price
	9. Full Throttle Traditional Combination Length:68-inch Weight (lbs.): 10 Construction Material: Steel and molded construction Number/Type of Bindings: Slide Adjustable Bindings Foot size: 6-12 Fin: Plastic	Check Price
Best Beginner Water Skis for Adults	10. Rave Pure Adult Water Ski Combos Length(in.): 67-inch Weight (lbs.): 17 Construction Material: Composite construction Type of Bindings: Adjustable bindings Foot size: From US sizes 5 to 12 Fin: Narrow nylon	Check Price
	11. O’Brien Jr Vortex Widebody Length(in.): 54-inch Weight (lbs.): less than 18 lbs. Construction Material: Not given information Type of Bindings: Adjustable bindings Foot size: 2 for kids, 7 for adults Fin: Plastic
	12. CWB Connelly Big Daddy Waterski Length(in.): No given information Weight (lbs.): 12.5 Construction Material: Closed cell polyurethane resin core Type of Bindings: Adjustable binding Foot size: For a wide range of foot sizes Fin: Aluminum drop-through fin

1. O’Brien Reactor Combo

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O'Brien Reactor Combo

Specifications

• Length: 67″/170cm
• Made of: Composite
• Foot size: Men’s 4.5-13
• Bindings: 700 adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Plastic
• Highlights: Wide fore body and tunnel channels for added stability

If you are looking to purchase a pair of combo skis with fully adjustable bindings, the O’Brien Reactor model could be exactly what you are looking for. It fits men’s sizes 4.5 to 13 and it comes with a plastic fin that ensures your feet are pointed in the right position. It measures 7” x 8.2” x 67.4” and weighs 17.5 lbs.. They are smaller than other models so they are very easy to transport and store.

Compared to other similar skis, they provide excellent stability, which means that you can have a fun ride over the water. As mentioned above, it comes with adjustable bindings, but it is important to know that It comes with 700 adjustable bindings which it is a feature quite interesting for a pair of water skis. Also, it provides performance thanks to its tunnel channels. In what regards the warranty, there is no information available for this item.

2. Airhead WIDE BODY Combo

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Airhead WIDE BODY Combo

Specifications

• Length: 54”
• Made of: Composite/ foam core
• Foot size: Adjustable from Sizes 5 to 12 (US)
• Bindings: Dual density bindings
• Fin material: Fiberglass reinforced nylon
• Highlights: Removable cross bar – for novices

Take a look at the Airhead WIDE BODY Combo skis and you will be surprised to discover how easy to use they are. With a 54 inches length and a removable crossbar, these incredible skis are ideal for beginners and experienced adults alike. They feature a composite/ foam core construction and are equipped with fiberglass reinforced nylon fins for maximum stability and great performance. Additionally, it is very important to know that they feature dual density adjustable bindings from 5 to 12.

Designed with a durable construction and a fiberglass shell, these beginner water skis are made to last. They measure 10.2” x 10.9” x 55.5” and weight 18.3 lbs.. Overall, if you are a rider, whether a beginner or an advanced one and you like this summer activity, this pair of skis will surely meet and exceed all your requirements.

3. CWB Cadet Combo

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CWB Cadet Combo

Specifications

• Length: 2 x 45 inches / 115 cm
• Made of: Reinforced Composite
• Foot size: 1-4
• Bindings: Slide adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Glass filled nylon
• Highlights: Connelly Tracking System, high gloss UV coat and removable stabilizer bar

We spend more than 30 hours reviewing various models of water skis and the CWB Cadet Combo was our favorite. It comes with reinforced composite construction and a glass-filled nylon fin for increased stability and performance. It is 45-inch long and weighs 7 pounds. The foot size for this beginner water ski set is 1 to 4. Additionally, it is quite important to understand that it supports riders up to 80 lbs., so if your weight is more than that, you should opt for another model.

Generally speaking, this model is ideal for kids and for beginners. It features a strong base, so if you are looking to purchase a long-lasting water ski set, this would be a great choice. As mentioned above, it has a reinforced composite construction which is great for beginners. They fall off frequently and a solid base helps them maintain their equilibrium.

4. Hydroslide Victory Combo

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Hydroslide Victory Combo

Specifications

• Length: 66”
• Made of: Composite
• Accomodates: Adult water sports enthusiast
• Bindings: Slide adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Drop thru plastic
• Highlights: Tunnel concave bottom pattern – for stability

The Hydroslide Victory Combo is another model that you should consider when making a purchase. It comes with durable construction and a stylish design. More than that it has slide bindings and drop thru plastic fins. It is 66-inch long and weighs 17 lbs.. As compared to other similar water skis, this one has a strong base and a round nose which makes going easy, so a beginner can start using it without any issues.

In order to give you the perfect fit, its bindings can be adjusted, so it will be easy for any rider to get in the water with this combo water skis. Although it is durable and it is made of quality materials, it is more affordable than its competitors. Overall, if you are thinking about having a blast on the water all summer long, this model can be a great option.

5. Airhead S-1300 Combo

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Airhead S-1300 Combo

Specifications

• Length: 67”
• Made of: Composite
• Size: US sizes 5-12
• Bindings: Dual density slide adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Fiberglass reinforced nylon fins
• Highlights: Wide tails and tunnel shaped bottoms – for balance and stability

Although it is our 5th option, the Airhead S-1300 Combo is a great pair of skis made for different skill levels. It measures 67-inch in length and it is equipped with wide tails for great performance and excellent stability. It features a composite construction and comes with fiberglass reinforced nylon fins. It is also worth mentioning that it has slide-type adjustable bindings that easily fit sizes from 5 to 12.

Most people prefer to buy this set as it is everything it stands for including top quality materials, great design, strong base and reasonable price. The fact that the top part of the skis is fatter is a major perk, thus allowing you to catch air off the wake. Needless to say that Airhead is a legendary watersport company, so if you are looking to purchase equipment for summer water activities, it can help you make the best decision.

6. AIRHEAD AHST-150

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AIRHEAD AHST-150

Specifications

• Length: 48”
• Made of: Wood construction with composite
• Size: US sizes 5-12
• Bindings: Dual density slide adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Fiberglass reinforced nylon fins
• Highlights: Double handle rope and removable crossbar and ties – for balance and stability

The AIRHEAD AHST-150 is a great pair of water skis. It is a quality model that doesn’t cost so much. In comparison to many other models, it comes equipped with many bindings and a double-handle towrope that will make your experience on water fun and easy. It features a composite construction and fiberglass-reinforced nylon rubbers for maximum stability. Also, it has removable front crossbar, tail ties and comfortable slide bindings which can easily be adjusted to fit adults size 5 and kids size 12.

The skis measure 48-inch in length and are suitable for skiers up to 100 lbs.. They come with a nice design and a double handle rope that is very easy to control. They measure 50.5 x 8.4 x 7.2 inches and weighs less than 12 lbs. They are very easy to carry around. Another aspect to consider when making a purchase is that it is great for different skill levels. So, whether you are a beginner, intermediate or an advanced user, you can confidently use these skis.

7. Airhead Wide Body Combo 65 in.

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Airhead Wide Body Combo 65 in.

Specifications

• Length: 65”
• Made of: Composite / foam core
• Size: US sizes 5-12
• Bindings: Dual density slide adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Fiberglass reinforced nylon fins
• Highlights: It features a hourglass shape

Over the last few years, water skiing has become one of the most popular water sports out there. It is an incredible and enjoyable water activity that requires special equipment. Finding the right pair of skis could be a backbreaking task. There are plenty of models available on the market, so it is extremely hard to find the right one for your needs. Therefore, allow us to introduce you one of the greatest model s in the current market.

Aside from being durable and made of high-quality materials, it is also an affordable model. They feature a composite/foam core construction and are equipped with fiberglass reinforced nylon fins specially made for tracking. The skis are 65.5 inches, but since they are adjustable, you can adjust them from sizes 5 to 12. The best skis should help you maintain your balance. This model comes with a solid and large base that will help you keep your equilibrium.

8. CWB Supersport Combo Waterskis

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CWB Supersport Combo Waterskis

Specifications

• Length: 65”
• Made of: Reinforced composite
• Size: US sizes 5-12
• Bindings: Slide adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Glass filled nylon
• Highlights: It features a hourglass shape

If you are a sport water enthusiasts, this model is just what you need. Waterskiing is one of the most enjoyable water activities, but to perform it you will need good quality water skis that are sure to stand the test of time. We are glad to include this model on our list as it is a great model for all skill levels. It is extremely easy to use due to its slide adjustable bindings. This means that they will fit a wide range of sizes.

They feature a reinforced the composite design and glass-filled nylon fin that will help you have more control over your skis. Due to that filled fin, you will be able to control the skis in the right direction. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, this pair of skis are suitable for riders above 150 lbs. and they are ideal for beginners and intermediates alike. What we really like about this model is its price. Compared to many other water skis available in the current market, these ones are extremely affordable.

9. Full Throttle Traditional Combination

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Full Throttle Traditional Combination

Specifications

• Length: 68”
• Made of: Steel reinforced and injection molded construction
• Size: US sizes 5-13
• Bindings: Slide adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Glass filled nylon
• Highlights: Concave bottom, tapered tail and beveled edge design

This model has been crafted with steel reinforced and injection-molded construction which means that the same high-quality will remain over the years. This makes this model an investment as you can enjoy them for whatever water sport you have in mind. The concave bottom and beveled edge design will ensure superior speed so you can keep up if you want to use them professionally. It has a tapered tail for easier turns and a recreational flex pattern which means that you can use them to train your skills.

It’s important to highlight that these skis are suitable for people of all levels. Even if you don’t have any experience using these skies, you will find that you can easily control them. It also has user-friendly side adjustable bindings.

10. Rave Pure Adult Water Ski Combos

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Rave Pure Adult Water Ski Combos

Specifications

• Length: 67”
• Made of: Composite
• Combo to slalom: Yes
• Bindings: Adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Glass filled nylon
• Skill level: Beginner to advanced

These combo skis are the perfect choice for novice or professionals. The reason for this is because they’re designed with a center ridge and deeper edge channels so you can smoothly glide through the water. In addition to this, it will also provide stability for deepwater starts. Hence, you can control and be responsive while cutting through waves. Furthermore, the adjustable binding will allow more than 1 person to use it. Thus, the whole family can learn by using the same skis.

The skis measure 67-inch (170 cm) which makes it the right size for adults. In addition to this, these skis are suitable for people with a weight above 125 lbs. Perhaps, the reason why numerous people vouch for these skis is because it has a square nose and a narrow fit. As well as, the slalom toe will help to develop your skills further.

11. O’Brien Jr Vortex Widebody

O'Brien Jr Vortex Widebody

Specifications

• Length: 54”
• Made of: Composite
• Foot size: Men – 7, kids – 2
• Bindings: Jr. X-7 adjustable bindings
• Fin material: Plastic
• Maximum weight : up to 140 lbs.

In the past few years, water skiing has become one of the most popular water sports out there. Whether you are a professional or not, if you love this activity you probably have at least one pair of water skis at home. O’Brien Jr Vortex Widebody is a professional pair of youth water skis that accommodate both women and men. They measure 54 inches in length. For kids, the foot size should be 2 while for men, it should be 7. The skis have a durable plastic construction that ensures a long life. Overall, they are well built.

Designed as kids water skis, they are the perfect way to start performing your favorite water sport. Since they are designed with adjustable bindings, you benefit from far better flexibility and stability on the water. However, the advantages don’t stop there. One of the skis comes equipped with a rear toe piece. They provide excellent balance on the water and help you feel comfortable and safe.

12. CWB Connelly Big Daddy Waterski

CWB Connelly Big Daddy Waterski

Specifications

• Length: 54”
• Made of: Closed cell polyurethane resin core
• Bindings: Front adjust binding – Rear toe strap
• Fin material: Aluminum drop-through
• Maximum weight : up to 220 lbs.
• Highlights: Connelly tracking system

Our 12th option is a nice pair of water skis. Specially designed for adults, these water skis with front adjustable bindings and rear toe strap are without a doubt our favorite. With a closed-cell polyurethane resin core construction, these Big Daddy skis provide stability and great balance on the water. More than that for better control, they feature an aluminum drop-through fin. They are suitable for users with a maximum weight of 220 lbs. that can get up on effortlessly. Also, this can be possible thanks to the unique C.A.P.T advanced technology. Also, it features the front binding with rear toe strap can be adjusted in order to accommodate a wide range of foot sizes.

Before purchasing this water skis, please remember that these are not water skis for kids and cannot be used by beginners. These are built with experience in mind. They are specially designed for advanced water enthusiasts with a fantastic skiing experience.

Features to Look for in a Water Ski

As mentioned above, there are so many types and models of skis that finding the right pair for you could be a back-breaking task. You may wonder what is the difference between the models listed above. There are many factors to consider when making a purchase. More than that, it is quite important to understand that many features contribute to the best model. Companies all over the world have spent lots of money trying to develop the best product. Therefore in order to help you find exactly what you need, we have gathered several features that should be looked at before making a purchase.

• Materials

  One of the most important things to consider when choosing a pair of water skis is construction. Since it determines the durability and quality, make sure you opt for a model made of high-quality materials. Most skis have a composite construction or they are made with polyurethane foam core. This material is also used in boats and it has the purpose to keep the skis afloat. Another quality material is the carbon or graphite. They are used by most manufacturers as they are ultralight and don’t affect product durability. Around the core, most companies use fiberglass wrapping for speed.

• Edge

  Another important factor to take into consideration when purchasing water skis is the part of the skis that allows you to go through the water with ease. On every model, you will find an edge bevel angle that provides stability and helps you maintain your equilibrium and balance while you are water skiing. Without this edge, a rider cannot turn the skis in the water. A large edge will allow you to turn the skis more gradually at a slower speed while a smaller edge is used more by professional riders.

• Bindings

  Since a water ski is similar to a snowmobile or snowboarding, its bindings are also similar to the ones used for winter equipment. They are designed to secure your foot, providing maximum control of the skis and excellent stability. These elements are usually made of neoprene and allow you to turn your ankle and move the ski as you want.

• Fins

  When purchasing this type of water equipment, take a look at its fins. Similar to the fins used for paddle boarding and surfboarding, they are made to keep your skis inline. This element is extremely important and useful when doing turns.

• V-Bottom

  If you are looking to purchase a new pair of skis, make sure it comes with this element. Keep in mind that only a few models have the V-bottom. This means that they have a ridge that creates a V shape at the bottom of the ski. However, the V-bottom cannot be found on models for advanced riders. They can only be found on beginner and intermediate skis.

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How to Size Water Skis

Whether you are looking for a pair of combo skis that will fit the whole family or just looking to replace your old skis, there is nothing more important to consider before making this purchase than the ski’s size. Generally talking, the skis with adjustable bindings are designed to fit a wide range of foot sizes. Even so, some models are designed for experienced riders. As you have probably noticed, the water skis come in different shapes and sizes. While some are built to fit users of different ages, others are designed for adults, only.

Theoretically, the combo water skis come in sizes ranging from 45 inches to 68 inches in length. However, you should choose a model that suits both your experience and bodyweight. If you are interested in purchasing a pair of combo skis that can be shared with other members of your family, make sure you opt for a long pair of skis. Users weighing up to 220 lbs. can handle a 69-inch ski. Also, consider that the longer the ski is, the better control and balance it provides. The longest skis are more stable and safe. Theoretically, the short skis are designed for experienced users, while the longer ones are designed for kids and beginners as they provide increased stability. On the other hand, if you are thinking about using some slalom water skis, things are different.

As already mentioned, your decision should be based on different factors, including brand (each brand has its size chart), experience, user weight as well as athletic ability.

Below, it’s an O’Brien personalized size chart that can help you get an idea of how to choose the right size.

Weight (lbs.)	Size (inches)
Under 100	45’
100-11-	59’-64’
105-120	61’-66’
115-140	61’-66’
136-160	64’-68’
155-180	66’-69’
175-200	68’-69’
200	68’-69’

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Frequently Asked Questions




1How wide is an adult water ski?

The adult-sized skis are 67 to 68 inches long and 5 to 8 inches wide.




2What skis are better for beginners ?

A beginner water ski should be 5 to 10 cm shorter than its height. Shorter skis provide better control and increased stability on the water.




3 Why should I choose skis that are taller than me?

The rule of thumb is that professional and expert skiers pick skis that are slightly taller than their height. As for longer skis, they will give you maximum stability. Plus, they allow for stability during deep water starts.




4 What to choose between a light and a heavy water skis?

Although they are more durable, most skiers avoid using heavy skis as they are harder to maneuver and handle on the water. The lighter skis provide better control and balance. Experienced skiers find them a great choice for hiking as they are much easier to spin and carry than heavier models.




5How to choose the right size?

There are combo skis on the market that vary in sizes from 59 to 68 inches in length. In general, the size of the ski should match your body weight.




6Is there any difference between the beginner and intermediate skis?

Theoretically both models will suit most casual water activities. The intermediate skis are a bit longer than beginner skis and shorter than advanced skis. They don’t perform well at high speeds and cannot be used to turn at low speeds. Overall, they are almost similar to the beginner skis.




7How fast do expert skiers go?

With long professional skis, the maximum speed reached can be of 58 kph (36 mph)




8Can I share the water skis with other individuals ?

As long as the water skis have adjustable bindings, you can share them with whoever you want. But we recommend choosing the bindings with a single front high-wrap and a rear toe plate.




9How much power do you need to water ski?

A pontoon boat with at least 150hp engine is exactly what you need. The more power in your boat, the more adventurous the water activity can be.




10How fast is pulled a water skier?

The slalom water skiers are pulled with speeds between 25 and 36 mph, while wakeboarders are pulled with speeds that vary between 18 to 22 mph.




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Conclusion

Water skiing is a fun and healthy water sport that will help you improve body resistance, tone your muscles, burn calories, and so on. It gives you adrenaline but it also poses some dangers, so safety is important. That’s why is recommended to always wear a safety jacket.

Best Overall O’Brien Reactor Combo

The skis selected by us are beginner-friendly. They are well-made and feature a cool design. We particularly like O’Brien Reactor Combo due to its increased level of stability. They are a bit price, but they are so easy to use that their high cost doesn’t even matter. The base is very sturdy and the 700 bindings are flexible enough to allow you to adjust them according to your preferences.

Our Choice Airhead WIDE BODY Combo

Airhead WIDE BODY Combo is another great pair of water skis. They are very easy to adjust, featuring dual-density bindings. They measure 54 inches in length and they are adjustable from 5 to 12 US size. As compared to O’Brien Reactor Combo that comes with a fin made of plastic, Airhead WIDE BODY Combo features a fiberglass reinforced nylon fin that provides maximum stability without sacrificing speed. We highly recommend this model to all water lovers who want to be safe doing this activity.

Best Beginner Water Skis for Kids CWB Cadet Combo

A more lightweight pair of skis comes from CWB. At just 7 lbs., the skis are more suitable for kids. The safety handle makes them a really safe choice. For their construction, the manufacturer has decided to use reinforced composite and glass-filled nylon fin for added stability on the water.

Best Beginner Water Skis for the Money AIRHEAD AHST-150

A more affordable model comes from Airhead manufacturer. The AHST-150 water skis are specially designed for beginners and intermediate skiers who want to spend more time on the water and train for a few moments. At 48” in length, the skis give more stability and require less effort to ride. They are lightweight and very easy to handle. Although they have a narrower forebody, they tend to be stable when turning. The skis are suitable for kids and adults who want to learn how to waterski.

Best Beginner Water Skis for Adults Rave Pure Adult Water Ski Combos

These skis are perfect for individuals who want to spend their time on the water, skiing and having some fun. The skis are made of durable composite. They are 67” long and provide excellent stability. The bindings are flexible so every user can adjust them according to their abilities. Although they are more lightweight than its competitors, the RAVE skis are stable enough to help you reach a good level of equilibrium on the water.