JET SKI RACING: 2016 New Racer Check-List

The 2016 season is quickly approaching — make sure you are ready for it! MotorActionMedia.com breaks down some of the necessities for any new Jet Ski racer.

With so many different racing series available to a new racer, it can be confusing on what exactly you need for your first race, the crew at MotorActionMedia.com knows that feeling.

WHAT YOU CAN’T RACE WITHOUT.

A DOT/SNELL APPROVED HELMET.

Make sure you get a brain bucket for closed course racing! Closed-face helmets are a must-have, and required by many sanctioning bodies. Among the pros, helmets from companies like Fly Racing and Fox Racing are some of the most popular — but what’s most important is that DOT/SNELL approved sticker — it’s required in order to get on the track. If you’re into freestyle, a helmet is not required, but if you’re going for a double backflip — you might want one.

A LIFE VEST.

In case of ejection, make sure you have an adequate life jacket. A good fitting life jacket will have your back in case of emergency — companies like Burn Industries, Jet Pilot and Fly Racing make some of the most commonly spotted life vests on the race track.

A BACK PROTECTOR.

Recently, sanctioning bodies are requiring stand-up racers wear back protectors with their life vests for additional safety. Life vests can be worn under or over your life vest. A motorcycle back protector works well for serious protection — many racers also use Jettribe’s standard back protector.

A LANYARD SET UP.

Also in case of an ejection, make sure that you have a working lanyard set up. If and when you fall off the ski on the track, officials want your ski shutting off — a lanyard attached to your body will kill the power in the event that you come off the ski.

A TOW LOOP.

In case your ski breaks down, a tow loop is attached to the front of the ski so that course marshalls can easily grab and get your ski to a safe spot. A tow loop can be purchased from your local dealer, guys like Kommander Industries can get you set up with exactly what you need.

STYLIN. — World Champion Quinten Bossche STYLIN’ in Burn Industries gear.

WHAT YOU MIGHT WANT.

A WETSUIT.

When it gets chilly, or if you’d like to protect your legs from the bumps and bruises that come with racing, a wetsuit will be there for you. There are tons of cool colors and styles to get your set up on point with companies like Burn Industries, Jet Pilot, and Quakysense.

SOME KICKS.

Not every rider likes to ride with shoes, but sometimes rocks aren’t your friend. Slippery, Jettribe and JetPilot make some great riding boots and booties that can protect your feet and give you some additional support.

MEMBERSHIPS

Memberships are required to race at most Jet Ski events.

IJSBA: if you’re looking into racing an IJSBA-sanctioned event, make sure you sign up for an IJSBA membership. Often times, you can sign up at the race you are attending. For more information on IJSBA sanctioned races and membership, be sure to visit the IJSBA website by clicking here.

Pro Watercross: if you’re looking into racing the Pro Watercross series, make sure you sign up for one of their memberships. For information on Pro Watercross membership, be sure to visit their website by clicking here.