On Board with Content Creator Osmany Alvarez

Our Man on the Ski Goes for a Ride with the WaveRunner Aficionado

We know that we can’t be everywhere at once, but our Man on the Ski can be. Our new series with Nick Roldan takes you behind the scenes with some of the most influential people in the jet ski world. First up? Osmany Alvarez.

Alvarez is living his dream. The professional PWX content creator has been riding for over 20 years and capturing his time on the water for the last 8. He always wanted to have two skis, and now he has them, customized, too: a bold red and electric blue twin Yamaha GP 1800s. While the blue one creates the balance to the duo, it’s all about the red. Alvarez started out on his red ski, and his truck is red to match. It’s an all American combo, and it feels like home to Alvarez.

Because his jet skis really are home. Constantly chasing adrenaline, speed, and the next adventure, Alvarez spends as much time as he can get out on the water. In fact, he says his day is only over when his fuel tank beeps. “The longer the ride, the better,” he tells Roldan. “I like to hear the wind hit my ears. I don’t even have music. I just want to ride.”

While Alvarez may be able to ride all day long, it’s not an easy feat. You need the right ski to take you through the tough waves, harsh winds, and physically-grueling journey. But the content creator’s WaveRunner fits himself perfectly. He explains to Roldan why he chose the Yamaha GP 1800. There are three reasons: It fits his body type. It was the first ski he test drove back in 2005. And he just likes it. That’s all there is to it. “It’s like I fuse with my ski,” Alvarez adds. “When I jump on it, it fits perfectly, especially the 2021+ models, because the seat is more narrow.” He’s also tried the FX before, but it just wasn’t quite right for his body structure.

Alvarez touches on a really critical point when it comes down to buying a PWC: you need to choose the right ski for you. You might think you want something big and flashy with all the bells and whistles, but if it doesn’t mold to your body, curve with your turns, and have that anatomical fit, then it’s not going to give you a smooth, stable, and comfortable ride. Choosing a PWC is personal, and it’s about what feels the best to you.

By Gaby Keiderling
By Gaby Keiderling

Gaby Keiderling is The Wake Edit's Editor-in-Chief. She is a New York-based writer working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features. Her work can also be seen in Vogue, Esquire, Harper's Bazaar, and when she's not working, she can be found driving a jet ski. Obviously.