How to Knot a Ski Rope

The right knot keeps ski rope attached to the boat.
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Water-sports can be a fun way to soak up the sun, enjoy your friends and get some exercise. Equipment that is safe and functional is essential, though. A self-cinching knot will keep the rope used for water skiing and wake boarding out of the water when under tension. It will also prevent it from becoming ensnared in any propellers or the boat's motor -- which can sink your day fast. The right knot can save you money, too. Because it stays in place and won't over-tighten, you can undo it without having to cut the ski rope.

Knot for Tow Pylon

    Step 1

    Stick your hand through the end loop, or a take-up loop if you're using a shortened tow rope.

    Step 2

    Grab the main line and pull it through the loop. This will form a new main line loop.

    Step 3

    Place the new loop around the tow pylon and pull the main line to cinch the rope around the tow pylon.

Knot for Ski Eye

    Step 1

    Twist the end loop or a take-up loop to form a figure-eight in the loop.

    Step 2

    Fold the figure-eight in half to form two loops.

    Step 3

    Place the two loops around the ski eye and pull the main line to cinch the rope around the ski eye.

    Tips

    • Ski rope knots use tension from the main line to cinch around the tow hook-up. Never use a knot that relies on tension from the slack line.

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