Watersports equipment designer and manufacturer HO Sports (Snoqualmie, Wash., U.S.) announces the launch of the new Sabre water ski developed in partnership with Checkerspot (Alameda, Calif., U.S.), a biotechnology company. The new product features a bio-based foam core designed specifically for water skis, developed through Checkerspot’s Wing Platform, which custom formulates algae-derived biomaterials to meet desired performance properties with less reliance on fossil fuels. 

The Sabre is designed for intermediate to advanced skiers who want a versatile, stable and smooth ride. Its bio-based foam core was tailored to reduce overall weight while simultaneously delivering higher compressive strength. According to HO Sports, this lightweight and durable construction, combined with easy turning and a forgiving sweet spot, make it ideal for skiers who want to progress their skills and accelerate their learning curve.

HO Sports has embraced the opportunity to integrate more sustainable materials into its product lineup. By partnering with Checkerspot, the company aims to set a new industry standard by offering products that not only excel in performance but are made from renewable materials.

“At HO Sports, we were already using bio-resins in our skis. Sourcing a bio-based core material was the next logical step,” Dave Wingerter, vice president of product management and global brand director at HO Sports, says. “Seeing what Checkerspot was doing with their foam and how it worked for snow skis in their brand, WNDR Alpine, it seemed like a great fit.” Checkerspot’s bio-based foam core has approximately 42% bio-carbon content, and uses an oil derived from microalgae.

The Sabre water ski will be available for purchase at select retailers and online stores for the 2024 season.