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WATERSKI MagazineTry these ski shoes on for size. In 1998, in the weeks leading up to the Barefoot Worlds in Australia, the defending world overall champion was practicing his trick run on something other than his feet. Ron Scarpa was on shoe skis. Rest assured he wasn't the only medal contender using shoes as a training aid.
No matter how good or how lousy you are, shoe skis are the very best way to learn a new trick. For something as complicated as a step 360 or as simple as getting up for the first time, shoe skis provide a surface that's longer, wider and flatter than your feet, making everything easier. You can also practice at 20-25 mph.
Another advantage is footing in rough water. You can skim through the chop on shoe skis as opposed to bouncing and flopping on bare feet. Extra spray is a byproduct but well worth the tradeoff.
There are four major shoe ski suppliers, and all of them have unique construction advantages.
Barefoot Trainers
Made by: Ron Scarpa Watersports
Briefly: Kind of a snug rubber or latex slipper molded onto a semi-soft platform. Suction created in the shoe makes them comfortable and snug and helps simulate the real thing very well. They're made to be worn in the water, so they won't become soaked and won't rot. The way they're constructed directly into the platform is also a plus. Be sure to get them sized correctly and treat with care when putting them on or taking them off. Price: $129.99
Dawg Paws
Made by: The Barefoot Company
Briefly: These are basically Converse Chuck Taylor high tops mounted to a soft platform. They're as comfortable as your
favorite tennis shoes, and they lace up, which is a great idea for ankle support. (It's an excellent value, too.) The platform isn't so soft that it will catch or so hard that it won't simulate footing well. Proper storage is essential to prevent dry rot. Comfortable for shoe sizes 8-12.
Foot Skis
Made by: Barefoot International
Briefly: Most consider Foot Skis the first shoes made for barefoot training. Former world champion Mike Seipel created them by trimming down the traditional shoe skis used in show skiing. The platform is similar to cutting-board material, with a toe piece and bungee strap mounted to it. The shoes glide easily because of the hard bottom – though they don't simulate the feet as well as soft platform shoes – and they're inexpensive.
Jaskis
Made by: Jaski
Briefly: The design team at Jaski doesn't cut corners on materials. The boot tops are made of Eva with ultraviolet protection, the bottoms of dual-density polyurethane. Jaski cut a new deal with a supplier early in the year that's resulted in a dramatic drop in the retail price. The company also recently brought production from Korea closer to its headquarters in Hampton, Virginia, and the base and shoe are now fused for a rock-solid bond. Keep in mind Jaskis only fit shoe sizes 7-11.
