I have a Rave slider and like it.
I generally anchor it in about 20 feet of water and don't have a problem with it. The only issue, which would be the case with any floating slider, is that I boat in tidal waters and the anchor ropes get a little slack when the tide drops. If the water is really choppy it bounces around a lot and is hard to use, but then I basically don't like riding in that kind of chop anyway.
What I like about the inflatable slider is that it does give a little when you hit it wrong. I would much rather bounce off an inflatable tube than a 4x4.
If you have the luxury of installing a permanent structure or even a floating structure that you could leave in place then I am sure you could do better then a Rave. For those of us who have to take it with us when we leave for the day the Rave is great.
If you want to see a video of mine in action you can check out my website:
http://pages.sbcglobal.net/rmcinnis/wake_pics.htm That video was first ever attempt. I suck, so if I can manage a full length slide it can't be too hard! My son can do all sorts of tricks off it.
Rod