Choosing the right water ski size makes the difference between fighting the water and gliding over it. This guide covers ski length by body weight (in kg and cm), the difference between combo and slalom skis, and what to buy for kids - based on 60 years of Connelly ski-making.
Water ski sizing chart (metric)
| Skier weight | Recommended ski length | Boat speed |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 36 kg (kids) | Trainer skis 110-120 cm | Under 30 km/h |
| 36-54 kg | 150-160 cm | 30-42 km/h |
| 54-68 kg | 158-165 cm | 40-48 km/h |
| 68-82 kg | 165-170 cm | 42-52 km/h |
| 82-95 kg | 168-172 cm | 45-55 km/h |
| Over 95 kg | Wide-body ski 170 cm+ | 40-48 km/h |
Rule of thumb: heavier skiers and slower boats need more surface area. If you sit between two sizes, choose the longer ski - it forgives more.
Combo skis vs slalom skis
Combo (pair) skis - best for beginners and families
Combo skis are sold as a pair with wide tips for stability and easy deep-water starts. One ski usually has a rear toe piece so you can progress to dropping a ski and skiing slalom. If one set has to work for the whole boat crew, buy combos - our Quantum combo skis are built exactly for this.
Wide-body slalom - best for bigger skiers and easy starts
A wide-body slalom ski adds surface area under foot, so larger skiers get out of the water with less effort and at lower boat speeds. The Big Easy Combo Skis carry this thinking into a pair - a favourite for heavier skiers who want relaxed sessions rather than course times.
Kids' water skis
Children learn fastest on purpose-built trainers with a stabiliser bar or tie-bar between the skis. The Firecracker suits first-timers up to about 36 kg, while the Super Sport is the step-up for kids who can already get up and want to start carving.
Don't forget the rest of the setup
- Rope: a sectioned mainline lets you shorten the rope for learners - see our ropes & handles.
- Vest: EU law and common sense agree - wear a certified buoyancy aid. Our life vests guide explains EN ISO classes.
- Bindings: snug is right; painful is wrong. Adjustable rear toe plates make sharing easier.
Frequently asked questions
What size water ski do I need for 80 kg?
Around 165-170 cm for a slalom ski at typical boat speeds (42-52 km/h). On combos, the standard adult 170 cm pair works well.
Can adults learn on combo skis?
Yes - most adults should learn on combos. They are far more stable, and you can progress to slalom by dropping a ski.
What boat speed for a beginner water skier?
Adults: start around 40-45 km/h. Kids on trainers: under 30 km/h. Increase speed only once starts are consistent.
Every ski ships from our Netherlands warehouse with free EU shipping, tax-inclusive pricing and a 14-day right of withdrawal. Browse the full water ski collection, or email eu-support@connellyskis.com for sizing help.