If you're a new ski boat owner, or an old hand with a hankering for a few new toys, Trailer Boat has the lowdown on the latest and greatest ski gear additions. This is just a sample of the mountains of new products available on the market, so make sure you check out your local retailer or call the information numbers provided. Go on, treat yourself!
Wake Tech Battail
The latest from the Wake Tech range in 2004 includes the Battail model. Incorporating the latest in core technology, the board features eye-catching graphics, cupped rails and four moulded-in fins for ultimate traction on the water.
Other models include the Flight and the Blunt. Available in 135cm and 143cm models, the Battail is an affordable addition to any social ski boat.
RRP: $999
Info: (03) 5726 8209
Double Up Soul Series
This series from well-known brand Double Up features boards in three sizes for the coming season: 135, 140 and 145cm.
Designated as a popular all-round board for a variety of skill levels, it features a rounded tip and tail for easy spinning. A very stable board for the whole family.
RRP: $499
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Liquid Force Trip
The Trip series of boards from Liquid Force are just one range of an impressive stable. 2004 has heralded some impressive new graphics and glossy bases.
The Trip series, available in 133cm, 138cm and 143cm models, is an old favourite with a touch of added glamour this season.
RRP: $102 with Evo boots
Info: (07) 3285 5785
O'Brien Oasis
A smooth and stylish ride, the moulded-in fins and cupped rails give the Oasis a great hold and edge when riding the wake.
For a looser feel remove the centre fin and go finless. A small flat spot in the centre of the board gives great pop off the wake and makes for a smooth sliding surface. Great value/performance package with the front-lace Link boots.
RRP: $899 with boots
Info: (07) 3285 5785
O'Brien Ambush
Probably the only time you'll be happy to be caught in an ambush is when you're riding one. A user-friendly board, the Ambush offers quality and performance at an affordable price.
Offered with the adjustable Base boot bindings, the Ambush series boards have subtle tracking channels for stability and a wide body for maximum boost off the wake.
Retail $679 with boots
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Jobe Brett Eisenhauer Pro Model
Ike's signature board features four six-inch angled fins along the bottom, which allow for stronger cuts into the wake.
The result is a fast, responsive board.
Available in 134cm and 139cm models, its shallow cupped/flat rails give a more responsive grip into a turn, with a clean edge for sliders, and the full-length "V" bottom tunnel helps soften landings from the three-stage kick. A step-down rail allows the board to sit slightly deeper in the water.
The Insight is advanced enough for the serious rider, yet tame enough for the rest of your ski crew to handle.
RRP: $799
Info: (02) 6025 6296
O'Brien Player - Daniel Watkins Pro Model
The pro model board of Aussie champion Daniel Watkins, the Player Series features moulded-in fins and cupped rails along the tip and tail.
A nice flat spot in the centre coupled with a subtle three-stage rocker gives the Player smooth landings and ultra pop off the wake. The Player can be ridden finless or with O'Brien's all-new Rail fins, depending on your riding style.
RRP: $839 (blank), $1159 (with Exit 13 boots)
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Blindside Five O
Available in three sizes (125, 132 and 138cm) this board is focused at the entry-level rider and family users, with long channels down either rail of the board for better edge hold and a three-degree side bevel for a much more forgiving ride.
RRP: $549
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Liquid Force Substance
The Substance Pro model is the signature board for top Liquid Force team rider Shawn Watson, who assisted with the re-tooling and improving of the range.
Top and bottom contours have been altered to create a better ride for advanced boarders. The Substance remains one of the company's top-sellers in the US. Available in 134cm, 138cm and 141cm models.
RRP: $959 (blank)
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Blindside Flower
The flower boards are designed specifically for "chick" boarders and are available in three sizes - 125, 132 and 134cm.
The smaller two are the same as the Five O shape, but with specialised graphics, while the 134cm is a more aggressive shape for the more hardcore rider, with deep, cupped rails and a different tip.
RRP: $749 (134 model) and $499 (125 and 132 models)
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Jobe Faction - Performance Series
The Faction 139cm is a board designed for a variety of skill levels.
The three-stage rocker, unique centre keel and kinked tip and tail blend together to help balance performance with a smooth, transitioned ride. The dove to the tip and tail help make for a more relaxed turn-in and promote spins, while the three-stage rocker provides added pop off the wake for bigger air.
Jobe's dual Venturi stabilising tunnels help hold the board's edge into the wake for additional tracking and stability. Best for riders up to 100kg.
RRP: $559
Info: (02) 6025 6296
CWB Flame & Freedom
The biggest selling board of 2003 (Absolute) returns with two new graphics and two sizes - the Flame 140cm and the Freedom 134cm models.
Both offer great value for what was the company flagship for 2003. The boards are aimed at the advanced market, and the stylish graphics will be a definite eye-catcher. Both retail for under $800 in a competitive market.
RRP: $799 (blank)
Info: (07) 3356 6922
CWB Absolute
Available in 134cm and 141cm models, the Absolute is the flagship of the CWB range and one of the biggest selling boards of 2002-03.
The new season model features a new CAPT (CWB advanced profile technology) top as well as striking new graphics to ensure the 2004 Absolute will be one of the hottest boards to be seen riding this summer.
Subtle tip and tail changes along with a lighter weight foam core will give Aussie CWB team rider Justin Abbott just the board he needs for plenty of podium finishes in 2003-04.
RRP: $955 (blank)
Info: (07) 3356 6922
CWB Prodigy Platinum
The sister board at the top of the CWB tree has the most change of any board for this season. Now boasting a new CAPT top, all new graphics along with a removable aluminium centre fin give it more versatility than ever before.
It will also suit a variety of intermediate to advanced riders with its new lighter weight foam core and 'glass rods. Available in 135cm and 140cm models, the Prodigy Platinum is the board of choice for Aussie rider Scotty Broome.
RRP: $1150
Info: (07) 3356 6922
Test Pilot
The latest board from Test Pilot is 140cm, with a rounded tip and tail to assist entry-level riders in turning the board.
It features full-length rails through the centre of the board and a three-degree side bevel, also to assist novice riders make the board more stable and predictable to ride.
The board is teamed with the shifter boot, a multi-fit lace-up boot for sizes 5 through 14. Its standard crank strap is for heel retention on the board.
RRP: $699
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Jobe Spade
At 132cm, the Spade is designed for today's smaller, younger and more versatile riders. It combines the performance of some bigger boards and covers a wide range of abilities and styles.
Its three-stage rocker and wide profile help improve and soften landings, while giving the board explosive pop off the wake and a flowing ride. An easy to ride board for beginner to advanced riders; best for those under 77kg.
RRP: $459
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Jobe Lyman BOA Boots
Jobe's signature boots for pro rider Keith Lyman deliver a locked-in feel from the rider who loves tight security on his feet.
The Boa reel system secures you into the boot, with entry and exit a twist of the switch away. With forward and lateral support, the BOA boots keep your heel locked in and positioned properly via heel bumps on the inside of the heel.
To help stomp out landings, Jobe improved the double footbed for 2004. The super soft footbed helps eliminate heel bruising after huge landings. Sizes available are S, M, L, XL and XXL.
RRP: $699
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Liquid Force EVO
Replacing the EZ suction from the 2003 range of Liquid Force bindings,the EVO features a front lace design with a flexible rubber tongue.
Available in two sizes: S-M and L-XL. The Flite boot is another addition to the stable for the entry-level boarder.
RRP: $399
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Jobe Insight Signature
New for 2004 is the Insight Signature Boot from Aussie Pro rider Brett Eisenhauer.
Featuring a hi-wrap velcro strap to improve support on the heel, heel bumps have also been added for additional support and to locate your ankle properly into the back of the heel cup to provide additional grip.
If you want boots that are super easy to get into and still have a lot of support, then these boots are worth investigating. Sizes include S, M, L, XL and XXL.
RRP: $659
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Jobe Gravity
Jobe's Gravity adjustable bindings are designed with adjustability and ease of entry in mind. The combination of the heel and toe overlay into one allows for both style and adjustability, and for 2004 a full neoprene floating tongue has been added for a super comfy fit for a wide variety of foot sizes.
The front-lace design allows for quick entry/release and also easy entry and exit into the bindings. These bindings will feel good in the water, and offer simple function at a more affordable price.
Available in two sizes: Standard (US 5-11) and XL (US 11-13). Sizing is for guideline use only; the exact sizing for each rider will vary based on both experience and riding style preferred.
RRP: $359
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Test Pilot Off Axis Bindings
These 2004 bindings from Test Pilot are packed with features - Astro deck foot bed, popular lace-up entry for maximum adjustability, a ratchet strap, aluminium base plate with stiffening bars and EVA rubbers for comfort.
This boot boasts top-of-the-line performance and fit at an affordable price.
RRP: $449
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Test Pilot Shifter Boots
The Shifter Boots from Test Pilot offer a budget alternative for the social boarder.
Featuring EVA rubbers for comfort, full lace-up front with a heel retention strap to lock you in for the ride, super light weight with stiffener bars, these bindings are suitable for the whole family.
RRP: $349
Info: (03) 9374 2003
O'Brien World Team
An ideal choice for the first time slalom ski buyer, O'Brien's World Team ski has a wide forebody and 45° edge bevels and controllable tunnel shape, making the it an easy ski to launch your slalom runs - and equally easy to turn.
The ARC adjustable fin increases its performance ability. Available in six sizes (from 64in to 75in), the World Team Ski is designed for everyone in the family or in the boat.
RRP: $599
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Test Pilot Junior Trainer Skis
Designed for the budding Emma or Curtis Sheers, these Junior Trainer Skis are of wooden construction with a joining bar at the front to ensure your junior's legs stay straight and on course while they learn the ropes.
A handle and rope is attached to help with balance, and the adjustable junior bindings make the Test Pilot Junior Training Skis a valuable addition to your gear this season.
RRP: $199
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Kidder Redline
Available in three sizes - 66, 68 and 72in - the Kidder Redline is a great ski for those looking to get a little bit more out of their day on the water.
The Redline's edge-to-edge tunnel allows the skier to throw it into turns and know that it's going to hang on! Bindings are a one-size-fits-all lace-up design with an open toe.
The Redline is a great flat-water ski.
RRP: $775
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Test Pilot Combo Skis
These 68in skis are designed for the entry level skier who wants to learn the basics.
Perfect for a social boat with novice crew, the Test Pilot Combo Skis feature poly flex comfort adjustable bindings for multiple foot sizes to accommodate the smallest and largest amateur skier. The skis also have a rear kicker for when you or your friends want to have a more aggressive crack at slalom skiing.
RRP: $329
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Connelly F1
The F1 is designed to be faster on the water, to carry more speed through the turn, to hold direction better and to cast out wider and smoother after the wake. Its tail is thinner, allowing the ski to sit deeper in the turn, improving directional performance.
Very high carbon content wraps a new light core process and combined with other lightweight materials create the lightest Connelly ever. Available in sizes 65, 66, 67, 68 and 70in, the F1 was used by pro skier Jamie Beauchesne to tie the world slalom record at 1@ 43 off in July this year. It's also the ski of choice for Australian world champion Emma Sheers.
RRP: $1600 (with Stoker plates)
Info: (07) 3356 6922
Jobe 1650 HPT
Part of Jobe's performance series, the 1650 HPT is a high-performance ski that's just plain easy to ride. A little wider than most conventional slalom skis, it allows easier starts, performs well at slower horsepower, and provides high-performance turning ability. The 1650 is stable when riding on or off edge, accelerates quickly, and crosses the wake smoothly. The 1650 is a forgiving ski that will make the novice feel like an intermediate and the intermediate feel like an expert.
RRP: $699
Info: (02) 6025 6296
O'Brien Vantage Adult Combos
O'Brien has designed these combos for any family and all their friends who may be learning to ski for the first time, or re-entering the sport after a few years on land.
The Vantage combo features O'Brien's all-new Dual Tunnel concave and hybrid shape for easy skiing and easy learning. The adjustable binding makes an easy fit for all feet sizes.
RRP: $359
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Free Motion Fire
The Fire Slalom from Fire Motion has a parabolic shape for effortless starts whether you are towed by a fire-punching inboard or a smaller horsepowered outboard craft.
The ski comes with neoprene adjustable bindings for comfort and ease of use for yourself, and whoever you feel generous enough to lend it to.
A great first time ski.
RRP: $349
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Connelly FX
The FX is an excellent blend of performance and ease of use. This hybrid design delivers high performance turns you would expect from traditional skis, combined with the ease of use benefits shaped skis provide.
The shaping of the FX makes smooth carving turns almost effortless. The aggressive skier will be surprised how easy it is to be good on the FX. Binding options include Stoker plates, front adjustable plate with adjustable rear toe plate, front adjustable velcro with rear toe strap, or blank with fin.
Available in sizes 66, 68 and 70in models.
RRP: $799 with front adjustable plates
Info: (07) 3356 6922
Connelly Hook
The ski that won numerous national championships and set world records in the 1970s is back on the water for 2004.
Technology has come a long way and the Hook has been revitalised to accommodate a wide variety of skill levels with the latest in materials and design. Smooth, carving turns are easy for the novice to intermediate skier. The tunnel design, with flat areas along the sides of the tunnel, make the Hook extremely stable in flat or rough water.
Available in sizes 66, 68 and 70in versions.
RRP: $899 with front-adjust plate binding
Info: (07) 3356 6922
Jobe Axiom 2
The Axiom, one of Jobe's family series skis, allows skiers of all levels to enjoy a day on the water.
The Axioms were designed to make skiing fun, whether making a run through the slalom course or just riding on the lake or river. They have allowed many riders to complete their first runs through the slalom course, and the wide tip and tail design help make deep water starts easy, while their dual radius side-cut makes turning a snap.
The Axioms are forgiving, predictable, and well suited for all water conditions. Sizes available are 67in for skiers up to 210lb and 69in for skiers up to 270lb.
RRP: $699
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Jobe Hemi Jr Trainers
Hemi Jr Trainers come with a detachable stabiliser bar to help maintain proper spacing and improve control for the younger generation testing their mettle on the water for the first time.
The wide profile of the combo skis and their shape helps junior skiers to start easier in deep water, as well as build rider confidence while learning how to ski. They come complete with Jobe's adjustable horseshoe bindings for easy entry and a learn-to-ski video and trainer rope.
They come in 46in sizes for children up to 70lb.
RRP: $359
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Air Head Big Shot
The Big Shot is new to the range for 2004 and is bright, colourful and bags of fun.
Features include 840 denier cover 30-gauge PVC inner, eight padded handles with neoprene knuckle guards, quick-connect tow point and a Boston valve quick inflation/deflation for ease of use. A well-priced bargain for the coming season.
RRP: $299
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Fuel Moto - 60
The Fuel Moto - 60 takes over as "top dog" from the extremely successful Heat 60 in the Fuel range.
With a new repositioned Boston Valve, new graphics, and low profile construction, the Moto - 60 fully covered tube is tipped to be one of the most popular tubes in 2003-04.
RRP: $249
Info: (07) 3356 6922
Fuel Chill
Fancy a 54in deluxe round tube for under $100 this season? This value for money entry level tube will attempt to blow the competition away with its exceptional quality and looks.
The Fuel Chill comes in two colours, red and blue, and will be an excellent addition to any social ski boat for a family looking for a fun day out on the river or lake.
RRP: $99
Info: (07) 3356 6922
Air Head Slide
The Slide triangular tube from Air Head is one of the more affordable water toys on the market. The 56in tube features four padded handles with neoprene knuckle guards. Features include a 30-gauge PVC inner with speed valve, inflatable floor and a 420 denier cover with quick connect tow point.
RRP: $149
Info: (03) 9374 2003
Air Head Matrix 2
A fully covered tube for two people, the Matrix 2 is another new addition to the Air Head stable for the 2004 season.
A fully covered tube, it's a deviation from the regular "doughnut" shape of ski tubes, and something of a challenge for both riders. Four padded handles helps the quest to stay aboard, with neoprene knuckle guards, Boston inflation/deflation valve and neoprene padding on top for comfort.
The Matrix 2 has two inflatable keels underneath for either a more radical ride. They work like fins to steer harder, or as a stabiliser for your younger riders.
RRP: $399
Info: (03) 9374 2003
O'Brien Eclipse
Featuring O'Brien's patented "rib design" for strength and durability, the Eclipse has a lot of attractive features.
A comfortable and stable ride, the Eclipse allows you to progress your knee boarding to new heights.
RRP: $399
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Jobe Prophecy
The Prophecy's wide-tip design, moulded-in fins, and aggressive rocker line all blend together to make it Jobe's most aggressive kneeboard to date.
The moulded-in fins provide added stability while allowing for a more rail-like edgy feel. Novice kneeboarders will appreciate the stability, while advanced riders will like the extra width under the knees for some serious pop off the wake. The board comes standard with Jobe's Ultra seat pad for added comfort and a double locking strap.
RRP: $759
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Jobe Slayer
The Slayer is made for entry-level kneeboarders who want to enjoy an extra level of performance. The swallowtail design helps to initiate turns and spins, and the thinner profile enables the Slayer to cut deeper and harder in the water. The wide profile combined with the twin-tip design make it easy to ride.
RRP: $459
Info: (02) 6025 6296
O'Brien Airageous
O'Brien's most popular compression-moulded 'glass kneeboard, the Spoon Hull Design makes kneeboarding fun and easy. Practice your surface tricks or crank into the wake for lift off. Comfort moulded flex pad and 3in padded strap are high-end features included.
RRP: $599
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Liquid Force wakeskates
Liquid Force has joined the wakeskate market this year with several models with prices starting from $279.
The boards are available in a wide range of colours and designs, with either flat or concave construction from 39in to 45in models to suit each rider's height and style.
RRP: from $279
Info: (07) 3285 5785
Jobe Distortion Wakeskates
Jobe's Distortion wakeskates are made from Canadian maplewood and feature an eight-ply laminated lay-up that provides the stable feel for which wood wakeskates are known. The top deck features an EVA top deck pad for added comfort, and provides awesome grip for kickflips and ollies. The size, either 111cm or 115cm, is based on rider preference. Riders of all levels and abilities should choose based on their own style.
RRP: $299
Info: (02) 6025 6296
Williams wetsuits
One of Australia's largest and longest-serving manufacturers of wetsuits, Williams has a huge selection of suits for all types, and levels, of skier.
These include spring suits for men, women and juniors and specialised barefoot suits with additional padding in the chest sections for extra protection for high-speed tumbles.
Williams is also well known for its range of buoyancy PFDs and, more recently, the Intensity Heater shirts popular with wakeboarders.
Check out the range at your nearest retailer.
Info: (03) 5726 8209
Air Wake Side Entry Vest
The features on the Australian-made Air Wake Side Entry Vest are endless - the specialised construction makes this vest a "must-have" item for both safety and performance.
Air's new range of vests utilises the latest buoyancy technology, incorporating Soft Cell Buoyancy, which reportedly guarantees the softest buoyancy available. Air also uses pocket technology to insert all buoyancy pads, giving greater flexibility and durability. The 3mm double-lined neoprene will keep you warm in colder climates and the vest is a PFD3.
RRP: $189 (Mens S, M, L, XL, XXL)
RRP: $139 (Juniors and sizes 14, 16)
Info: (07) 5474 1020
Zee Wetsuits Sleeveless Short John
An ideal combo for wearing under a buoyancy vest, the mega-flex used in the Zee Short John allows for optimal flexibility with no resistance from unwanted sleeves, and a low line collar for maximum comfort on the neck.
It's a versatile suit with various uses for wakeboarding, waterskiing, surfing, swimming and snorkelling, and is constructed from 2mm double-lined neoprene throughout the body.
Zee suits are all Australian-made with a lifetime warranty on workmanship and 12 months on materials.
RRP: $139 (XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL)
Info: (07) 5474 1020
Moomba Buoyancy Vest PFD
Incorporating the latest buoyancy technology - Soft Cell Buoyancy - Moomba's range of mens, ladies and kids buoyancy PFD3 vests feature 3mm double-lined neoprene, super seal flatlock stitching, reflective piping to stand out on and off the water, and pocket technology to insert all buoyancy pads for greater flexibility and durability.
All Moomba kids vests come with bright panelling on the upper body for greater visibility. Moomba offers a lifetime warranty on workmanship and 12 months on materials. Sizes 2, 4, and 6 come with a removable crotch strap, which can also be purchased separately and added to the larger sizes.
RRP: $179 (Mens S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL, XXXXL; Ladies 8, 10, 12, 14, 16)
RRP: $129
RRP: $18.50 (Separate Crotch Strap for sizes 8, 10, 12, 14, 16)
Info: (07) 5474 1020
Air Wake Short Sleeve Spring Suit
The all Australian-made Air Wake range has a lifetime warranty on workmanship and 12-months on materials.
The Air short sleeve spring suit is touted as the ultimate specialised wakeboarding spring suit, with 2mm double lined body and 2mm Mega-Flex shoulder and side panels for extra flexibility, 2mm neoprene lumber support and a 3/4 back zip, minimising any restriction in movement through the lower and upper back region. Super Seal Flat locked seams provide durability and strength, while eliminating any rash. The suit also has 1mm o-ring leg seals to reduce water flow through the legs.
RRP: $159 (Mens S, M, L, XL, XXL)
RRP: $99 (Juniors and sizes 14, 16)Info: (07) 5474 1020