Introduction

Water skiing is a summertime activity that can be easily adapted for individuals with disabilities. It is both a recreational and competitive activity. The competitive form of water skiing includes three events: slalom, trick skiing and jumping. USA Water Ski is a national governing body for water skiing and works through the Water Skiers with Disabilities Association to serve individuals with disabilities.

Basics

• All skiers should consider using a wet suit so their body temperature does not fluctuate to extremes.
• When learning to ski, one should become acclimated to the equipment while on land.
• For skiers with upper extremity amputations: Do not attach to a ski rope with a device that cannot let go automatically.
• Use a ski rope that has a single handle.
• Use a self-suspending, condylar socket that can be unhooked when put under stress.

Equipment

Skiers with arm and leg amputations generally use the same equipment as non-disabled skiers. A ski harness assists skiers who have difficulty holding onto the towrope. This product is an adapted wind-surfer harness that enables the skier to release at any time. Ropes with two handles are used for skiers with vision impairments to allow for a guide to ski alongside them.

 A ski boom, used by beginner skiers, is a 15-foot bar that attaches onto the boat. In addition, outriggers can be attached to the sit-ski to help skiers who have difficulty with balance.

 A skier with a disability uses a board (ski) that is similar to a surfboard with a seat (cage) attached to the top. The cage, typically made of padded metal tubes, is deep so that the skier can sit securely.

 The ski will usually have diving socks attached to the front to keep the skier’s feet in place as well as attachable fins used for keeping the ski steady. There are various types of skis available for beginners as well as expert skiers.

 There are also different styles for jumping, slalom and the trick event. Disabled skiers have the option of holding the rope or attaching it to their skis.

Spotting

In water skiing it is advisable to have a spotter to communicate between the skier and the driver of the boat. The spotter and the skier must have an established communication system of signals such as faster, slower and stop. The spotter can be in the boat or on a separate watercraft that follows the skier. Skiers with amputations can choose whether they want to ski with or without their prostheses.

Competitive Water Skiing

• Sit Skiers this includes people who have paraplegia, quadriplegia, double-leg amputations, and others who are unable to sit in an upright position.
• Single-Leg Amputees this includes individuals who can sit upright.
• Skiers with Arm Disabilities this includes various arm disabilities.
• Skiers with Vision Impairments this includes individuals who have either have no vision or have partial vision.