There are some things that you should know about WaveRunners and Jet Skis, especially if you are looking to buy. Since WaveRunners were introduced in 1987, the market has boomed with all types of models offering a great range of options. This wide range of models has also made selecting the best one for your needs a bit more difficult. By considering what you need and what each company has to offer, you can get the best watercraft for your money.

The first and most important thing to consider is how many people you want to be able to ride your personal watercraft at once. Today's models offer a range of 1 - 4 riders, with the 3 rider models having the most options to choose from. Single rider models are the smallest category and all models differ greatly. The biggest difference is there are the classic standing Jet Skis that offer the sportiest ride, but lack storage and functionality. Sit down models offer the most versatility for single riders. They have more storage compartments and a more comfortable ride. They also offer more horsepower and larger fuel tanks for a great distance range. SeaDoo offers a model that has 5 different riding modes offering something for everybody. Two-seater models and above are sitting only, but the foot wells offer great stability for cornering in a crouch-like stance. Most models will be three seaters and you don't give up any performance for having the option the extra person. You can find models that start at about $6,000 - $12,000 depending on what you are looking for. Kawasaki offers great models for the economical rider, while SeaDoo leads the pack in horsepower and price with the RXT that boasts 215hp at $11,499 MSRP.

The next thing to seriously consider is what kind of recreation you will be using the WaveRunner for. If you need to be traveling distances, then you will need an economical engine with a large fuel tank. More horsepower will suck more gas, whether it has a large capacity tank or not.

Another difference you should keep in mind is the storage capacity. More features can hinder the storage capacity greatly. Top end models sometimes have things that you will never use. Be certain to look into the compartments as well, because odd shaped objects might fit inside one model and not another.

The best thing to do before you go shopping is make a list of things you need. Then when you are shopping, you can choose a couple of models that fit your criteria and go for the things that you want as well.