OBrien 64 Competition repair?

Question

Thanks so much for the info...one more question and I won't bug you anymore :) I'm looking at the Obrien 63 Synchro... I'm 5'6' 50 yrs, 135, strong for an old lady and always ski'd on the OBrien 64..the boat that I'm using has a top end that is much slower than what I'm used to so I need a ski that can perform at a slow speed..I have been unable to find a chart that tells me what size ski to use and how different ski's perform...what do you think? Or maybe I should try wake boarding?  Thanks again, Toni

Followup To

Question -
I grew up skiing on a wood O'brien 64 competition...nearly everyday till I was about 25.  left the life for 25 years and now live on a lake again...got up last week first time but now notice that the tip of my ski is separating...can I repair this?

Answer -
You may be able to but - I would not.  

It is not the split I'm worried about.  It is the general integrity of the ski itself.  I've seen skis break between the front and rear boots in competition before.  These tend to be serious because the boots twist both ankles in different directions (the incident I witnessed broke both ankles).  You probably don't have boots in a ski of that vintage so that is probably not as serious a problem - but that is something that has always worried me.

Ski technology has advanced an incredible amount since your ski was produced.  You could probably ski twice as good on a new ski (especialy the new carbon fiber extra strong/thin skis).

If you really want to try to repair it you can glue it with a few clamps to hold it together till she dried well.  You will have to then seal it with something so it does not split again right away.  You may also want to consult a specialist in the area (like a wood furnature maker).

Answer
WEIGHT SKI SIZE
80-110 lbs 62-64"
95-120 lbs 63-65"
115-140 lbs 63-65"
135-160 lbs 65-67"
155-180 lbs 67-69"
175-200 lbs 69"
195-220 lbs 69"
215+ lbs 72"

Remember that these sizes are only a guide!

You should really try each ski before you buy one.

Also - they make wide skis which allow you to go much slower and they also make skiing much easier - I believe Connely has one like this.

Also - wakeboarding is a great alternative.  The best way to buy a wakeboard is to go to a reputable boardshop in your area and talk to knowledgable staff...  They can help you understand rocker and length and suite you for a board that fits your riding style and prefences.