Trainer Skis??

[td95sport]

What are the best trainer skis to teach kids on?

[bkhallpass]

How old are the kids?

There's a big variety out there. I used an EZ ski trainer for my two year old. It is a ski skimmer wiith an inflatable around it. Very stable for very young kids, or less coordinated kids up to 60 lbs.

Ski Skimmer, also very easy, but without the inflatable around it.

Just about any of the trainers with the skis tied together are fine. I wouldn't pay a fortune for them because they outgrow them
so quickly.

If the kids are old enough not to need the skis tied together, then I like the fat doubles to teach beginners.

BKH

[td95sport]

My boys will be 4 years old in march. I looked at the skimmers and didn't know if they worth the money, but may be. I thought we would get more use out of the trainers.

[bkhallpass]

At barely 4, I personally would start witht he ski skimmer.

I've seen them online for $89. Even if they used it only 10 times each, that's$4.50 for each of them,
each time they use it. I can't think of many activities I do with my little one that cost me less than $4.50
(bouncy house, little gym, public pool, etc.). They will probably use it more. Plus, you can sell it on ebay, or
one of the forums and probably get back half your money. Or, you might luck out and find a used one.

If you elect to go with the trainers, I would find the smallest you can. The biggest issues with the kids is they can't
control the skis, and they tend to flip of on their sides. Also, people buy them too big, and they can't keep their feet in the
bindings. I wouldn't worry about brand. A boom also makes it much easier, but it is not required/necessary. With kids barely 3,
they ought to be able to get up barely past idle speed.

BKH

[td95sport]

Very good points and information. I am looking online now for the skimmer board. Thanks!

[TRST]

Another "trick" on kids trainers is to weight the tails. Most trainers are too bouyant and make it difficult to stay in the proper position. I got the idea from HO and made my own for the Jobe HoneyBees i had from the 70's. When I upgraded to the modern obriens my kids had a harder time. They don't stay on trainers very long so brand/year etc... make very little difference.