Stepping Off a Slalom Ski

OK. So you have to start somewhere right? I learned to barefoot by stepping off a slalom ski. You can do this long line but if you have access to a boom, it's much easier to learn and the falls aren't quite so painful (can you say "face plant"?)!!!

1. You'll need a ski with a very loose, adjustable binding. Or better yet, remove the heel piece completely. This makes it easier to step off.
2. While hanging directly on to the boom, do a normal slalom deep water start. This should be quite a bit easier than a deep water start long line since you have the boom to assist you.
3. Once you're up and skiing comfortably, instruct your driver to increase to your barefoot speed or just a couple of MPH slower (you can go a little slower on the boom).
4. Take your rear foot off the ski and gently place it on the water - concentrate on where the water is breaking on your foot. It should be about the mid-point of your foot and your toes should be slightly curled up.
5. Now here's the critical part: make sure your planted foot (the one gliding across the water) is AHEAD of the foot still on the ski. This is CRITICAL! Not too far, maybe 1/2 to 1 foot length ahead of the foot still on the ski.
6. With a gentle rocking motion, slowly place all of your weight on your planted foot and the ski will easily slip away at which point you place your other foot on the water - and YOU'RE 'FOOTIN!!!

Do this a few times while hanging directly on to the boom (if you have two step off skis, you can let go at the first dropped ski and start your next run there). Then progress to the 5' line on the boom and finally long line. With any luck, and hopefully very few face plants, you should have this down in about an hour.