For more information on this subject, tune in to Episode #302 of GarageCast
In an industry obsessed with market share, viral videos, and the next “must-have” gadget, Skier’s Choice—parent company to Supra and Moomba—has charted a quieter, more intentional course. Under the leadership of Chris Crysdale, this Tennessee-based manufacturer has built a legacy not on hype, but on integrity, craftsmanship, and culture.
“We won’t lower our standards to satisfy orders.” — Chris Crysdale
Crysdale’s entry into the marine world wasn’t strategic—it was serendipity. Once a Ford mechanic with a passion for the water, he wandered into Water Ski America one Saturday and met Tim Savar. One conversation later, his life’s direction shifted. What began as a casual chat became the spark for a career built on craftsmanship, collaboration, and conviction.
“Great opportunities often arise by accident.” — Crysdale
That openness—to people, ideas, and possibility—now defines the DNA of Skier’s Choice. Inside its R&D department, cross-functional collaboration rules the day. Ideas flow from the production floor to engineering to water testing within days. Innovation here is fueled by empathy, not ego.
As a privately held and intentionally small company, Skier’s Choice designs its culture as carefully as it designs its boats. Every employee is treated as a creator, not a cog, and the result shows in every hull and every detail. Supra and Moomba share identical materials and manufacturing processes—distinguished only by design and finish, never by shortcuts.
“When people feel heard, they build boats you can feel.” — Crysdale
That people-first mindset produces measurable results: industry-leading CSI scores, low turnover, and even a four-day workweek when quality of life calls for it. Recognition, too, is deeply personal.
“Awards should be displayed at employee entrances—not in the lobby. Their victory belongs to them.” — Crysdale
While many manufacturers chased record COVID-era demand, Skier’s Choice stayed disciplined. Crysdale saw the surge for what it was—temporary.
“COVID boat sales aren’t coming back—and that’s OK.” - Crysdale
By resisting the rush, the company emerged stronger: with cleaner inventories, healthier dealers, and boats that held their value long after the boom faded.
Crysdale’s dealer philosophy mirrors his manufacturing one—no quotas, no games, no unreachable executives. Partnerships are built on accessibility, transparency, and shared values.
“Integrity may take longer to develop, but its effects last much longer.” — Crysdale
That approach extends into sales and support. Skier’s Choice invests deeply in dealer training, follow-up, and long-term relationships—because, as Crysdale puts it,
“Great products open doors. Follow-up closes them.” — Crysdale
Expect thoughtful incentives, responsive pipelines, and well-trained reps instead of gimmicks or one-off promotions.
Perhaps the most misunderstood name in the Skier’s Choice lineup, Moomba proves that affordability doesn’t mean compromise. Built to the same standards as Supra, Moomba’s sub-$100K models deliver wake performance rivaling boats twice their price.
“Try driving it, then tell me it’s an entry-level boat!” — Crysdale
For new generations of boaters, Moomba represents access to premium craftsmanship—without sacrifice.
Rising interest rates and tariffs have pressured affordability across the marine industry. Many builders scramble for short-term fixes, but Skier’s Choice takes the long view. They support dealers with aged-inventory incentives, consistent retail follow-up, and pre-owned strategies that nurture future customers.
“We seek to serve long-term boat owners rather than one-time buyers.” — Crysdale
“Restraint is a strategy; its results become reputation in the long run.” — Crysdale
From auditing quality to unifying build standards, every move reinforces one truth: when a company prioritizes integrity at every step—from design to delivery— it doesn’t just build better boats.
It builds a better business.
