Combo Water Skis

Learning to Waterski on Combo Skis

Combo water skis are a matched pair of skis ridden two-footed, one foot on each ski. They're how most people first learn to waterski: with two skis under you the ride is stable and forgiving, so you can focus on getting up out of the water and finding your balance rather than fighting the gear. From there, many skiers progress to dropping a ski and skiing slalom. There are a few shapes. Traditional combos have been around for decades and give a balanced, predictable ride. Wide-body and hybrid combos carry more surface area, which means more lift, easier deep-water starts and a more stable platform — the best choice for teaching first-timers, heavier skiers, or anyone skiing at slower boat speeds. The extra width shelters the body from the water's pull during the start, which is where most beginners struggle. Sizing is by skier weight, and the range runs from small kids' trainer skis right up to full-size adult combos. Kids' trainer skis are the smallest, often joined by a bar or rope to keep the skis together while a child finds their feet. Many junior combos come with adjustable bindings so they grow with the skier. Adult combos are sold in lengths matched to weight — heavier skiers need a longer, higher-lift ski. Combo bindings are designed to release the foot easily in a fall, which reduces the risk of ankle injury. Beginner and intermediate bindings are deliberately not tight, and that's correct — a learner doesn't need a locked-in binding, they need one that lets go. Brands here include Radar, HO, O'Brien, Connelly, KD and Ez Ski, covering kids' trainers through to stable adult learning skis. Browse the full range online or visit the Brisbane store.