Water Skiing & Wakeboarding

Equipment choice will largely depend on your level of mobility, weight, height, and skill level. For users that have lower limb mobility issues, a variety of sized aluminum cages act as your seat which mounts to the waterski or wakeboard. Some waterskis have a device called a block that the rope connects to for users who have arm and hand dexterity issues that hinder them from holding onto the rope and handle. You can also mount outriggers and a backrest between the cage and ski to help keep users who have limited trunk control afloat. Users who have an upper limb amputation can stand up ski using a shoulder sling called the delgard sling which helps hold onto the rope and handle.

The various styles of adaptive alpine make it more accessible than many sports to varying injury levels. Equipment will vary depending on leg, ab, chest, and arm mobility.

If you live near a body of water, there’s a good chance you live near an adaptive program that offers adaptive waterskiing and wakeboarding. Signing up for a lesson is the best way to get started, and many programs offer financial assistance, equipment loans, and lift ticket deals.