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WATERSKI MagazineAdvanced Traditional Rides
You need a ski that accelerates quickly, shuts down well in the turns and holds a strong edge when crossing the wakes. You can handle a ski that is snappy in the turns and very responsive. Either skiing aggressively in the open water or in the slalom course, you're the real deal.
Connelly Course GS — 2000
Lengths (in.): 65, 66, 67, 68
Price range: $510-$670
Turning ability: A-
Acceleration: A-
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: A-
Edging ability through the wakes: B+
Overall stability: B+
Test notes: A well-rounded advanced ski. When patient in the turns, the Course GS finishes the turn with good angle. If you happen to force the end of your turns, be prepared for a little tail slide, but this can be corrected by adding depth to the stock fin setting. Our testers gave the new binding system high marks.
Goode 8000
Lengths (in.): 62, 64, 65.5, 67
Price range: $740-$810
Turning ability: A
Acceleration: A+
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: B
Edging ability through the wakes: A
Overall stability: A-
Test notes: Rides a little higher in the water than other skis tested. Once you lock into your lean, it holds angle very well, with great acceleration. Testers liked the way the 8000 rolled out in the pre-turns.
HO VTR
Lengths (in.): 65, 67, 69
Price range: $550-$680
Turning ability: A
Acceleration: A-
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: A
Edging ability through the wakes: A
Overall stability: A+
Test notes: Rides deep in the water, which allows for high-performance skiing in rough conditions. Testers liked the stability and smooth edge changes. A great ski for the mid-level to shortline skier looking for a ski with tremendous overall features.
Jobe 1650 HPT
Lengths (in.): 65, 67, 69
Price range: $350-$406
Turning ability: A-
Acceleration: A+
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: B+
Edging ability through the wakes: A-
Overall stability: A
Test notes: Testers liked the smoothness, predictability and awesome glide of the Jobe 1650. Rides deep in the water and is a great buy for someone looking for stability all the way up through 35 off.
KD 3000
Lengths (in.): 64, 66
Price range: $359-$449
Turning ability: A
Acceleration: A-
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: A-
Edging ability through the wakes: A
Overall stability: A
Test notes: Great choice for intermediate to advancing female skiers looking for a traditional ride with great overall features. Testers liked the stability through the wakes and how easy it is to stay balanced through all aspects of the turn.
KD 7000 CT
Lengths (in.): 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68
Price range: $509-$678
Turning ability: A-
Acceleration: B+
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: A-
Edging ability through the wakes: A-
Overall stability: A+
Test notes: Testers loved the stability and predictability of this ski. The skier who rides the 7000 will have complete control. Guys who really like to get on it behind the boat might notice a slight lack of acceleration, but the 7000 makes up for it with tremendous stability. A mid-level skier will also be able to handle the 7000 and will like its benefits.
O'Brien Vision
Lengths (in.): 66, 68
Price range: $410-$570
Turning ability: B+
Acceleration: A
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: B
Edging ability through the wakes: A
Overall stability: A-
Test notes: The Vision has some standout features, particularly its acceleration and the way it handles wake crossings. Has a little bit of a biting effect in the turns, but the more you ski the more comfortable it gets.
O'Brien Siege
Lengths (in.): 64, 66, 68
Price range: $390-$550
Turning ability: A
Acceleration: B+
Symmetry of on-side and off-side turns: A+
Edging ability through the wakes: A
Overall stability: A
Test notes: Easy to turn, stable and user-friendly for the advancing intermediate to advanced skier. Its symmetry of turns was a real standout quality. The Siege is easily capable of running shortline slalom with a little less acceleration than its brother, the Mapple Siege.
