Question about potential devices to assist deep water start.

[vernonreeve]

We have the typical friends that are too heavy, old, weak, and/or inexperienced to get up on one ski. I was going to make something, but found the following that might work.

Has anyone used the RAVE Aqua Buddy Trainer for 180lb adults?

 

https://overtons.com/product/details?pdesc=RAVE-Aqua-Buddy-Trainer&i=314026

 

Also, has anyone tried something like the Clark Fork Pontoon from Cabelas?

 

https://cabelas.com/product/CLASSIC-ACCESSORIES-CLARK-FORK-PONTOON/1907270.uts?productVariantId=4937551&WT.tsrc=PPC&WT.mc_id=GoogleProductAds&WT.z_mc_id1=04646914&rid=20&ds_rl=1252079&gclid=Cj0KCQjwl7nYBRCwARIsAL7O7dG5Vmr9VMEbv9dXre753HcSw--oscgqYmWCXeavwWC47_mnzRFWATEaAhbHEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

[Lobonator]

You could maybe try off of a regular tow tube. I know people who have learned to barefoot by starting off of a tube.

[BraceMaker]

Never had any luck with this myself, seems like a good idea but mostly just inconvenient unwieldy and distracting. Get a barefoot boom if they are too young or old and it will pay off.

[oldjeep]

The best device is a second ski. Good enough for a an older guy i know who uses one at nationals. No point wearing yourself out.

[mwetskier]

there are various strap-like set ups that have been used by a lot of older guys. the basic idea is a single piece of nylon webbing (like seatbelt material) coming from the buckle area of a waist belt or double straps coming from behind the back of a belt. the strap is simply laid over the top of the handle (*not* a full wrap around) and clamped by one of your hands. if two straps coming from behind are used then each hand clamps one.

 

The guys who use them swear by them and @Horton can probably explain more since i know his dad has used one.

[vernonreeve]

The strap concept sounds like a good idea. Sounds similar to the Goode Powervest.

[mwetskier]

@vernonreeve -important point, as soon as the skier is up and skiing he releases the straps and they simply dangle, either in front with the one strap method, or in back with the two strap method.