Water ski ropes & handles are available to suit a wide range of skier types. Choosing the correct rope & handle can drastically improve how quickly your skills advance. Most water ski ropes come in a standard maximum length of 75’ and feature coloured shortenings and loops which adhere to international standards. Most combo skiers prefer a rope length of 75’ while slalom skiers should use a rope length of 60’ (aka “15’ off”). As a skier progresses through a slalom course the length of the rope will incrementally shorten. The current world record features a rope length of just 9.75m or 43.47’ off the standard 75’.
Ropes are available in fixed lines with no sections, 5-sections, 8-sections, or 10-sections depending on what kind of skier that specific rope is targeted towards. Most package ropes include rope lengths of 5-sections or 8-sections. Rope quality is defined by how many strands make up a length of rope. A high-quality rope will use approximately 80 pre-stretched strands resulting in a rope that is accurate to international length requirements and will not deteriorate and stretch over time.
HANDLES:
- SHORT V: Short V handles are designed for skiers confident with deep water starts looking for the most performance. Short V handles come in either 12” or 13” widths with varying diameter rubber grips based on skier preference. Short V handles come in straight [standard], elliptical [oval cross-section] or arc [radius]. Some handles include a technology called ‘Barlock’ which reduces handle roll for a consistent grip. Short V handles should always be paired with a pair of water ski gloves.
- LONG V: Long V handles are designed for beginners who need assistance during deep water starts. When using a deep V handle, the slalom ski is placed between the V not allowing the ski to roll too far to the left or right during a start. Deep V handles come in 13” or 15” handle sizes and different grips such as rubber, EVA or suede based on personal preference. Note: Skiers using water ski gloves should only use rubber handles.
Radar 2025 Vapor Custom 12 inch Slalom Ski Handle
Description
Ultimate grip meets sleek functionality, the Vapor Custom ensures you’ve got your hands on the best handle around.
Specifications
• SuperGrip
• Silicone Sleeves
• Pre-Stretched