10 Best Water Skis 2025 in the United States

The O'Brien Celebrity Combo Waterskis are designed with versatility in mind, making them suitable for adults of various skill levels. At 68 inches long, they are ideal for comfortable gliding and performance on the water. One of their standout features is the adjustable X-7 binding, which accommodates a wide range of shoe sizes from 4.5 to 13, ensuring that most users can enjoy a secure fit. The padded rear toe plate adds to the comfort, allowing for longer sessions without discomfort.

These skis are equipped with a performance side cut that enhances turning ability, making it easier to navigate through the water. Their dual tunnel design contributes to improved control and stability, which is particularly beneficial for intermediate skiers looking to boost their confidence on the water.

Weighing in at 12 pounds and constructed from fiberglass, they are lightweight yet sturdy, making them easy to handle. With a 1-year manufacturer warranty, they also provide assurance on quality. However, the skis' popularity means they can be ranked #2 in waterskis, reflecting a competitive market. These skis are a solid choice for adults seeking an all-around water skiing experience, but they might not be the best fit for complete beginners.

The Connelly Big Daddy is a waterski designed especially for larger or heavier adult riders, recommended for those over 220 pounds. At 69 inches long, it's on the shorter side compared to some skis, which helps with easier control and quicker response, making it well suited for beginners or those learning to ski. Its core is made from closed-cell polyurethane resin, which provides good durability and stability on the water.

The ski features Connelly's Advanced Profile Technology (C.A.P.T.), which helps create a smooth glide and makes it easier to get up on the ski quickly. The fin setup includes an aluminum drop-through fin, offering solid tracking and control during turns. The bindings include a lace-adjustable front binding with a rear toe plate that fits most adult foot sizes comfortably, allowing for secure foot placement without complicated adjustments.

The ski is best used at speeds between 24 and 28 mph, which aligns with typical beginner or intermediate skiing speeds. It is tailored primarily for heavier skiers and might not perform as well for lighter users. Additionally, the weight limit of 220 pounds means lighter or very heavy skiers may want to consider other options. For heavier beginners seeking a reliable and stable ski to start waterskiing confidently, the Big Daddy represents a strong choice.

The O'Brien Kids Platform Trainer Waterski is specifically designed for young beginners weighing up to 85 lbs, making it a suitable choice for children learning the basics of water skiing. Its unique construction, which combines elements of a sled and traditional trainer skis, offers stability and support that are ideal for novices. Made from bamboo wood, the skis provide durability while maintaining a lightweight design, which is essential for young users to handle easily.

The ski measures 46 inches in length, an appropriate size for kids, and features a sure-grip handle, enhancing control and safety during practice. This feature makes it easier for children to maintain balance and develop fundamental skiing skills. The platform design aids in stability, which is crucial for beginners who are just getting accustomed to being on the water.

However, it's worth noting that the skis are primarily targeted at young beginners. This means that as children advance in their skiing abilities, they might outgrow these skis relatively quickly, requiring an upgrade to more advanced equipment. Additionally, while the bamboo construction is eco-friendly and sturdy, it might not provide the same responsiveness or longevity as some synthetic materials used in higher-end skis.

The product enjoys positive reviews with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, indicating a generally satisfactory performance among past users. Given its best-seller ranking and design aimed at teaching skiing fundamentals, it serves well as an introductory tool for young skiers. The O'Brien Kids Platform Trainer Waterski is an excellent option for parents looking to introduce their children to water skiing in a safe, controlled manner.