How to Learn to Barefoot Waterski

Waterskiing is typically done with a pair of skis attached to your foot. But many waterskiing enthusiasts are now enjoying the sport barefoot. Waterskiing barefoot often takes a few attempts. Many beginners find themselves unable to stand and end up feeling the water inside their nostrils and mouths rather than underneath their feet. The method for waterskiing barefoot differs based on whether you use a towrope or boom.

Things You'll Need

  • Towrope and wakeboard, or
  • Boom
  • Life jacket
Show More

Instructions

  1. Towrope

    • 1

      Put on a life jacket. Even if you are a good swimmer, you should always wear a life jacket when barefoot waterskiing.

    • 2

      Get into the water behind the boat and grab hold of the towrope handle.

    • 3

      Sit in the water with your knees slightly bent toward your chest, and your legs pointing toward the boat in front of your body. If you are using a wakeboard, sit on the wakeboard.

    • 4

      Hold the towrope handle between your legs.

    • 5

      Lift your feet as close to the water's surface as possible. If using a wakeboard, place your feet on the edge of the board.

    • 6

      Give the signal for the boat to begin accelerating.

    • 7

      Bend your knees into your chest as the boat reaches about 15 miles per hour, and allow your feet to glide against the water. There should be no slack left in the towrope. Don't attempt to stand yet.

    • 8

      Apply more weight to your feet as the boat increases in speed. Keep your feet flat and on top of the water.

    • 9

      Stand up as the water hardens underneath you, and the boat increases speed. If using a wakeboard, you should feel it begin to slide out behind you. Keep your arms straight, push your hips forward, keep your knees at a 90-degree angle, and keep your chin and back perpendicular to the water.

    Boom

    • 10

      Put on your life jacket. Get into the water and hold onto the boom with both hands.

    • 11

      Give the signal for the driver to accelerate. The forward motion will force your legs behind your body.

    • 12

      Bend your legs slightly as the water begins to hit your thighs.

    • 13

      Rotate your body so the water is hitting you at the hip as it begins to harden underneath you. Bend your knees into your chest at a 90-degree angle.

    • 14

      Swing the lower half of your body forward with your arms, so your butt and legs are in front of you. You should now be sliding on your back, with your knees still bent.

    • 15

      Place your heels on the water and it will automatically force you to stand up. Keep your arms straight, push your hips forward, keep your knees at a 90-degree angle, and keep your chin and back perpendicular to the water as you barefoot waterski.