Section 3: Playing Area
Slalom course. The official slalom course runs 259 metres (850 ft) from entry gate to exit gate, with the two lines of boat guides spaced roughly 23.5 metres (77 ft) apart. Six turn buoys are set alternately along the course, each positioned 11.5 metres (37 ft 8 in) from the centreline of the boat lane. Entry and exit gates each consist of a pair of gate buoys spaced 2.5 metres (8 ft 2 in) apart, straddling the centreline, which the skier must pass through at both the start and end of a scoring pass.
Jump course and ramp. The jump ramp surface must be between 3.70 m and 4.30 m wide at every point along its length (4.20–4.25 m recommended), with an overall ramp length of approximately 6.60 m (21.6 ft). Ramp height (the height of the take-off edge above the water) is adjustable and set according to division — commonly around 1.5 m for standard divisions, up to 1.6 m for elite women and 1.8 m for elite men. Side aprons run the full length of the ramp on both sides and must extend at least 15 cm (6 in) below the waterline when the ramp is raised to competition height, guiding the boat and skier into a consistent approach lane.
Tricks course. The tricks pass zone is marked by a pair of course buoys set approximately 230 metres apart on open water, defining the area within which each timed pass must be completed.
All courses must be sited on a body of water approved by tournament officials for adequate length, width, and depth, and must be kept clear of other traffic during competition.