Water skiing for the disabled is divided into categories according to the skier's physical disability and incorporates the three events of slalom (wake slalom for the visually handicapped), tricks and jump. Except for wake slalom, lower jump ramp heights and a narrower slalom course for seated skiers only, the events and the rules are similar to those for Tournament.

Categories are currently in place for arm amputees, leg amputees (with and without prosthesis), the visually handicapped (blind and partially sighted) and multiplegics (quadriplegics, paraplegics, and double leg amputees) who ski seated.

Water skiing for the disabled started on the international level in Norway in 1986. World Trophies followed in 1987, 1989 and 1991 with the first World Championships being held in France in 1993. 84 athletes from 15 countries competed, both record numbers. Since then World Championships are beeing held every second year.

Since 1993, world records have been recognized in all categories.

The greatest amount of activity takes place throughout Western Europe, in the United States, Australia, Singapore and New Zealand.