best source for a new ski?

[nola mike]

just got my boat earlier in the summer (and i think i just blew my outdrive, but that's another story...). sadly, i didn't get a chance to engage in any watersports, but have been itching to. i'm looking to get a slalom ski over the winter--didn't know if i could get a deal in the offseason, last year's models, etc. i'm looking for probably an intermediate double wrap ski that won't break the bank (see note about outdrive above
anybody have a ski rec, and possibly some sources to check out? i might also look for an entry level wakeboard while i'm at it...

 

[skibrain]

Re: best source for a new ski?

Sorry to hear about the boat.

There are NOT a lot of great resources for ski reviews. So a few years back a group of guys from near-pro level to merely advanced did some evaluation of a number of the popular skis. I'll try to find the links. Eventually these results were shared with and printed in WaterSki magazine. Tests were done of high-end skis (the $900-$1500 variety without bindings!) in 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009.

In 2007 only, they also evaluated more recreational-level skis. And within their tests included Wide & Stable Skis, Intermediate Skis, Performance Skis:

http://www.waterskitests.com/2007/RecTest/Intro.htm

You would likely be able to find some of these models used, or still in production over the past couple years.

In terms of sources to buy, I think it is really helpful to talk to people who are actually waterskiers! I've purchased a couple of skis and sets of bindings from the folks at www.wileyski.com

These guys are also great: www.h2oproshop.com

If you are interested in used, check out www.ski-it-again.com
It has become the go-to place in the online community for used water skis. It is not a bidding situation and the sellers are usually skiers. I just bought a 2006 like-new used slalom (blank, no bindings) for $200 from ski-it-again. The price of the ski new is $975.

Good luck.

 

[nola mike]

Re: best source for a new ski?

thanks, lots of good info. both those sites are just what i was looking for.