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There is a common misconception in the marketplace that there is a best brand or model ski that will work for everyone. This isn’t true, but every major brand has a make or model that can be the right ski for the right person. There are a few simple steps to follow when selecting the right ski. These will help narrow down your choices, provided that you work through each step honestly.
- Video Tutorial: Differences Between Shaped Skis and Straight Skis
- Video Tutorial: Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Skis
- Video Tutorial: How to Select a Twin Tip Ski
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General Ski Information
When searching for the right ski, there are a set of questions to start off with: “How long have you skied?” and “Where have you skied?” Based on these answers, the next questions are whether or not you like to ski slow, medium or fast, and if you like to make wide, open turns, or quick, snappy ones. Finally, the last question is where you like to spend the majority of your time skiing, from beginner, intermediate and expert trails to mogul runs or even out of bounds. Keep these questions in mind while going through the steps of finding the right ski.
Step one is picking the type of ski you want. There are many different divisions that are used to describe skis. Many can be very confusing but there are only a few categories you really need to understand.
First off, downhill skis are known as Alpine skis – they consist of a fixed boot, binding and the ski itself. Nordic skis, where the heel releases from the ski binding, make up the other class of skis and include both cross-country and telemark skis. The following categories divide up the Alpine ski family. All can be further divided into men’s, women’s and junior groupings.
All-Mountain: Most Alpine skis fall into this category. Because the majority of skiers don’t have the luxury of lugging around several sets of skis to match that day’s conditions, All-Mountain skis are designed to perform in all types of snow conditions and at most speeds. Narrower All-Mountain skis are better for groomed runs, while wider styles handle better in powder and cruddy conditions. Other names for this style of ski include Mid-Fat skis, All-Purpose skis, and the One-ski Quiver.
Powder: Designed to float atop powder, these are a popular back up pair of skis for those lucky enough to live in or visit places like Utah that receive frequent major storms. The mega-wide waist widths – ranging from 105mm to 130mm – keep the skis from sinking deep into fresh snow, but they can be challenging and sluggish to control on groomed runs. Sometimes they are known as Backcountry or Big Mountain skis.
Twin Tip: Twin tip skis have a curved-up tail along with the standard curved-up tip. Originally, Twin Tips were most popular with the freestyle set, and were used to take off or land jumps backward. Nowadays Twin Tips are also available as All-Mountain skis, though most are actually “direction twins” – slightly longer and wider in the front.
Racing: Typically stiffer, longer and narrower than the average ski. Most race skiers know what they want, so there’s no point in going to deep here besides noting that if you’re not a racer, don’t even consider racing skis. Sometimes they are known as Slalom or GS skis.
Video Tutorial: How to Select the Right Ski
After determining the right style of ski, the next important step is determining which one is right for your skill level. A ski built for all skill levels simply does not exist, so it’s vital that you buy a ski matching your ability. Picking a ski that’s either above or below your level will seriously impede your ability to get better. Advanced level skis are stiffer and require more technique, but they respond quicker; they also need to be skied at higher speeds to make them turn. Conversely, beginner to intermediate skis are softer and more forgiving, making them easier to initiate a turn at slower speeds with less technique; at high speeds, however, they can create a lot of chatter, making them hard to control.
There are six different levels of skiing ability that you may be classified under. From lowest to highest, the levels are Beginner, Advanced Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert. The key is to pick a range that you are comfortable with, but one that you can also improve with.
Beginner: This is level for skiers who are just beginning their skiing career. The skier has either never skied before or has skied only a few times.
Advanced Beginner: When a skier is comfortable on the green runs (beginner runs) and is moving up to blue runs.
Intermediate: The comfort level is on groomed blue runs that can be skied with relative ease.
Advanced Intermediate: The skier is moving up to black diamonds and other terrain.
Advanced: Black diamonds and other terrain are comfortable.
Expert: All terrain including powder, out of bounds, moguls, etc. are skied with ease.
The key is to pick a range that you are comfortable with, but one you can also improve with, unless of course you are an expert. If you are most comfortable skiing groomed, blue runs, then classify yourself as an Intermediate. That doesn’t mean, however, that a ski rated Beginner to Intermediate is a good fit. Instead, look for a pair with your level at the lowest part of the range – an Intermediate to Advanced, in this case – this way you can improve with your ski. There is no advantage to buying a ski that is significantly better than you. More advanced skis must be “loaded up,” meaning you really need to get some speed and weight into them to get them to carve. But if you can’t get the right speed and pressure, the skis will be difficult to control.
A result of a ski’s sidecut, the turning radius equals the natural circle that a pair of skis makes on edge when your weight is properly applied. It’s the same idea behind the turning radius of a car; a tiny sports car can whip tight donut shapes, while a large truck needs far greater space to turn a full circle.
With skis, the turning radius can range from a low of 11m all the way up to 25m. This figure is often printed on the skis themselves. If you like quick, snappy turns, look for a turning radius in the 12–16m range. If you prefer making big, wide-open turns, then look for a turning radius of 16–22m. If the turning radius isn’t given, then look at a ski’s dimensions, which measure the sidecut widths at the tip, waist and tail. They’ll look something like 128/86/114. The bigger the difference between the waist of a ski and its tip and tail – i.e., the more dramatic the hourglass shape – the tighter the turning radius will be.
Video Tutorial: The Dimensions and Turning Radius of a Ski
While sorting through skis, you’ll notice many come with bindings attached. These are known as integrated bindings, as they are built into and are a part of the skis themselves. (You might also see these set-ups called system skis.) So, what set-up should you chose? Unless you’re an experienced racer or freestyle skier with specific binding needs, integrated bindings are highly recommended.
Before the advent of shaped skis, integrated bindings didn’t exist. But with flex being key to the functionality of shaped skis, they have quickly become an industry standard. Think about it this way: When you drill a regular binding into a ski and drop in the boot, you end up with shaped ski that flexes above and below the binding zone, but not within in. This is a dead zone, like skiing with a metal rod in the middle of your skis. Once manufactures realized that shaped skis weren’t performing to their potential due to this boot/binding combination, they created integrated bindings that “float” on top the ski. The bindings do this by moving back and forth as the ski flexes, keeping constant pressure on your boots to hold you in. The end result is that integrated bindings give skiers the full benefit of a shaped ski’s potential.
Video Tutorial: The Purpose for Integrated Bindings
With the advent of shaped skis, the typical length of skis has changed. Years ago, skis for men stretched from 175cm to 205cm and beyond. But now close to 80 percent of men’s skis fall in the 155–175cm range and the majority of women’s ski fall into the 140–160cm range. This is because the hourglass shape of the ski allows for a shorter ski with a wider and larger surface area. Although they are shorter, they are just as fast, turn better, and are more stable due to shape, new materials, and better flex patterns.
As a general rule, a ski should reach up to the chin for beginners, the nose for intermediates, and the forehead (and above) for advanced skiers. Although this is the general rule, there are some exceptions. Heavier skiers need a longer ski, while lighter skiers can go a bit shorter. And as overall length and speed are compatible, there’s a similar dynamic for skiing style: If you like to ski fast with wide turns, then go longer, but if you’re a mellower skier who enjoys quicker turns, go shorter.
Typically you will want to get as much length as you’re comfortable with for your ability, as it gives you more ski on which to learn to carve. But if you feel a chosen ski ought to be shorter, then it probably should be. There’s no point in choosing a ski length you’re not comfortable with, as you’ll never maximize its potential. If you’re going to lean one way or another, err on the shorter side.
Video Tutorial: How to Select the Correct Size Skis
It is our commitment to provide you with the most complete, accurate, and thorough information possible to help you make an informed decision. We encourage you to check out these additional pieces of media to help guide you to the best skis for you.
- Video Tutorial: Differences Between Shaped Skis and Straight Skis
- Video Tutorial: The Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Skis
- Video Tutorial: How to Select a Twin Tip Ski
Tags: Buying Guides, Skis
Thanks your videos were great…I’ve skiied in Colorado 20 years and this was educational for me to advance my knowledge and skiing abilities. I’ve been an advanced-intermediate mostly frontside skier on older skis and I’m hoping to make the leap to Advanced and all mountain terrain with the purchase of new skis and challenging myself in new territory. Happy narrow tracks!
Can you recommend a ski and boot for an 18 month old, beginner skiier?
Julie,
Rossignol makes a really nice ski for little skiers it comes pre-drilled to accept the Rossignol Comp Baby binding, Which has a lower din range for young kids. As far a boots a rear enetry model like the SX or Xara boots from Dalbello will entry and exit easier for you and them. Most kids find them more comfortable as well.
- Kevin Palmer
Very informative videos. I had Rossi 205 straight skis and haven’t hit the slopes in 15 years. I am ready to purchase new downhill shaped skis & your videos gave me an idea of what to look for. Thanks.
I AM LOOKING FOR A PAIR OF SKIS FOR MY 13 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER OF IS AN UPPER INTERMEDIATE SKIER. SHE IS 110 LBS AND IS ABOUT 5′4″. WE PRIMARILY SKI ON THE EAST COAST. WE GO OUT WEST A COUPLE TRIPS A YEARS. WHAT DO YOU THINK SIZE WISE AND I SAW ATOMIC 161 METRON EX PULS TITANIUM. OR ROSI BANDIT B1 IN A 154 OR 161.
ANY SUGGESTIONS.
THANKS
GARY
This website is very informative and easy to use. I appreciate the video tutorials and the information, as it is all very easy to use and easily understandable. Thank you!
Hi
Really enjoyed your video. I have been skiing since the 70s and learned a lot.
You didn’t mention moguls. I mostly black mogul hills and love to ski fast. Ski in Colorado. I am 5′9” and weight 190lbs.
Like a ski that will keep you above the crud, will will perform great in the bumps and go fast without chatter. And ski power when you luck out on a powder day.
Does such a ski exist?
If I order skis with an intergrated binding how do I fit them to my boot?
Hi Kevin,
I found the response to Julie’s question to be very helpful, however, the boots you recommend are for girls. Can you recommend boots for an 18 month old boy?
Thanks,
Nina
Gary,
The Metron in a 161 is going to be way too much ski for her. I would take a look at the Cloud 9 from Atomic. It’s a phenomenal ski for the money, a women’s ski which will help her progress at the pace she should. Go with a 149cm length.
Kevin
Katherine,
Thank you for your kind comments regarding our site. We’re glad that you found the information you were looking for and that it was easy to understand. Please visit us again soon.
John,
Check out the K2 Apache Recon. This ski is very stable, forgiving in the bumps with its softer flex and turned up tail, carves well on groomers, and has descent float with a 78mm waist.
Kevin
Barry,
If you order a package from us, boots, skis, bindings or system ski we offer mounting services. If you are only looking for skis you need to take them to an authorized dealer for the brand you purchased.
Kevin
Nina,
You didn’t state what size foot they have, but Dalbello and Alpina both make boots down to a 14.5.
Kevin
Hi Kevin,
After not having skied for about 10 years, I am getting back to hitting the slopes because my kids (ages 8 and 6) love to ski. I am thinking about buying my own. I am about 5′6″, 160 pounds. I mostly do greens with my kids and venture out to some blues on my own when they are taking lessons. We ski in New Hampshire and Maine. I have my eyes on a pair of K-2 Escape 163cm parabolic skis. Do you think that would be a good choice for me? If not, do you have any suggestions? Thanks. AJ
First I’d just like to say that I found this page to be very informative. Thanks for the information.
Second I am new to skiing but it has come somewhat naturally to me, and I am looking to possibly buy skis rather than keep renting from the local slopes. I have done some single black diamonds so I would probably be Advanced Intermediate for level, however I’m not completely comfortable on moguls and bumps. Also, is the hill rating universal? For example, is a black diamond at my local slopes equivalent to a black diamond in Colorado or Utah? I am a 6′1 male and weigh about 205 pounds, and was wondering if you had any suggestions. Thanks!
Zac
Hello, thank you for all the information, it was very useful! I am looking for a twintip ski that i can use in the pipe, the park and all over the mountain including some off piste. Ive been looking at the Line Shadow Ski 08/09 but am unsure as to whether i should purchase the 151 or the 161. Im 5″4 and roughly 115 pounds, intermediate - advanced, any ideas?
Thanks!
I am a 46 year old advanced intermediate. I am slight at 5’7” 140lb. Comfortable on black diamonds in the north east. I learned to ski in the last five years and continue to progress. I found a few lessons go along way, resulting in moving to the next level. While I am mostly on groomed north east trails, I do enjoy trying to improve on moguls, and enjoy the rare powder we get.
I recently tried the atomic black eye ti 164s. For me it was stable and easy enough to go edge to edge on quick groomed runs and plowed through varied conditions (demoed on different days and conditions). I did feel less nimble and less athletic on these. Any suggestions for a lighter weight skier. Perhaps at my weight a little less stiff ski is in order. Please suggest any of this year’s lineup and size that would be appropriate.
Thank you. Great info. found on this site.
Zac,
No the trail ratings are not universal. I just got back from Jackson Hole where a blue is like a black at any other resort. I’m glad to hear that you have taken to the sport so quickly. A good ski to look at would be the Atomic Smoke Ti as it has a super broad performance range of low intermediate to advanced. If you plan to start heading west and venturing off trail then try the Line Prophet Flite. Like the Smoke Ti it has a broad performance range but is wider for added versatility on powder and crud.
Kevin
Hi, thanks for your very informative videos, I learned a lot. I am a 48-year old female and an intermediate skier. I started skiing in my 20’s and have always been a timid skier. Although I have pretty good technique from lots of lessons, I still tend to get scared when skiing, mostly when the terrain is steeper than I am comfortable with. I would never try a black run, and prefer the not-too challenging blue runs. I would like a ski that makes it easy to turn as some skis I have rented feel like I am fighting with them. I would like a ski that makes skiing more enjoyable by giving me more control over turning. I am 5′10″ tall. Which skis would you recommend for me? Thank you very much for any advice.
I am 6′1 and 200 looking for a good all around twin tip ski. I am fairly new to the terrain park but would still like a ski to take on the groomed slopes as well. My skill level would be advanced intermediate to advanced. Any suggestions on ski and size?
Ted,
I think you’re on the right length but like you’re saying the Blackeye Ti maybe a little too stiff for you right now. Try the Salomon X-Wing Storm (little softer) or the K2 Apache Interceptor (fair bit softer). Both of these will have similar performance but will be more forgiving.
Kevin
Sarah,
Keep in mind that twins will ski about 5-10cm shorter than a traditional all mountain ski. If you are a confident skier who can handle speed go with the 161cm.
Kevin
AJ,
You didn’t mention which model of Escape they are so it’s a little tough. The size is good so you are on the right track. My only concern is that they may feel a little soft to you in a year or two. I feel like the Fischer Heat 76 or the Rossignol Avenger 72. Both of these skis will provide better edge grip therefore more confidence and control on the hard packed, icy conditions you get on the east coast.
Kevin
Kevin,
Need some advice on length and on skis. I keep getting and reading conflicting info on length. I consider myself an advance beginner/intermed (fairly comfortable with most blues), male, 205lbs and 5′11. I was thinking of buying a decent used set since I live where there are no “true” mountains, and unsure how often I will use. I was looking at 170’s and someone thought I should look at 180. I believe the last rental was 168ish. I thought it would save to go ahead and invest since I am going to Utah for 5 days in March and the rental is 30 a day. Is there a cetain brand that I should focus on? Thanks! Craig
Nice website!! Very informative. Quick question. I am moving into an all mountain ski and I have decided to purchase the Salmon Lords. I have read great things about this ski and I tried a demo pair last year. The thing I am struggling with is the correct length. Should I get the 177 or 169? I am 5′10″ and 168lbs and I would consider myself an advanced skier. Thanks!!
I have been skiing for years and recently came across telemark skiing. I want to try it and have no idea about the ski lengths, bindings, etc. Do you have any info on telemark skis?
Hello Kevin,
I saw an 09 Rossignol Sprayer 158 twin tip. Was wondering, if I’m 220lbs, 5′6″ . is this ok skis?
I’m ok on bunny hops and an Intermediate to Advance Skier on All Mountain. Like the Idea of the twin tip and wanted to see if it’s a good investment to hopefully enhance my skiing and to loose weight.
Thx for your assistant
Im thinking of buying Salomon Aeromax GT (http://www.salomon.com/sk/#/ski/skis/on-pist-performance/aeromax-gt—z10) and would like to ask you for help selecting the correct length. Im split between 5ft 8 inch (172cm) with an average turning radius of 16.9m and 5ft 5 inch (165cm) with an average turning radius of 15.2m. Skies of both lenghts has variable turning radius of 14-18m (the longer one) and 13-17m (the shorter one).
Im 5 ft 10 inch (180cm) tall, weight is 200 pounds (90 kg), Im not a beginner nor an expert, but say Im an advanced skier who skies on any pistes, curves I do are shorter (not too short) but mostly mid-long curves with average speed (not slow nor too fast). Which length should I prefer to avoid any trouble on the piste. Is it too much of a difference between those two lenghts? Would I feel the difference?
Many thanks for a prompt reply.
Regards
Roman
Very informative videos and a great site!
I’m an expert skier and have been at it for the last 18 years (im 23) and while i absolutely adore my Volkl AC50s that isn’t the question. My girlfriend has recently begun skiing and honestly, I’m tired of forking over $40 a day for skis so I thought i might surprise her with a new pair. Right now I would say she is a beginner/intermediate skier. We ski together out east, where powder isn’t really an issue but I want to get her a ski she can grow into so that in a few years, she can keep up with me on the steep stuff and in the trees. Do you know a good ski that would fit her criteria and that we could enjoy for a long time to come?
Hi, i am looking to buy some skis, i am 5′7 and 147lbs. I am an advanced intermediate and enjoy recreational skiing at all levels. I was wondering if the rossignol saphir 100 (2006) would be any good or if you could recommend any others that i may pick up cheaply as i am a student.
Many Thanks
Kate
I have a couple of questions. We have a 12 year old daughter who gets to ski once a year. She has no trouble but we still stick to greens and easy blues. She now has 120 shaped skis that we think are too small for her this year. She is about 5′1″ and has an 8 1/2 size foot. So she is going to need new boots also. We’re confused on what bindings and skis to get if we have to get her size 25.5 boots. What kind of bindings should she get?
Any suggestions would be great!!
Thanks, Vicki
Derek,
A couple of recommendations would be the Line Prophet Flite, K2 Extreme, and the Salomon Suspect. All will be good all-mountain skis as well providing descent park abilities. I would rank them in the order I have them from all-mountain orientated to park orientated. As far as sizing I would stick as close to a 180cm as possible.
Kevin
Gina,
Try the K2 T9 Free Luv. These are very easy turning, smooth, stable, and will provide you with a ton of confidence. I like them as well because K2 mounts their women’s bindings a little farther forward than most other brands which will put more weight on your tips making your skis easier to control. Also have your local shop set you up with a pair of heel lifts for you boots, as these will get you farther forward, getting you into a better skiing position, again giving you more confidence.
I would also check out the videos below by the inventor of women’s ski equipment Jeannie Thoren.
4 Problems for Female Skiers
Female Lower Body Structure for Skiing
The Importance of Heel Lifts in Women’s Ski Boots
Here’s to better skiing!
Kevin
Craig,
You are on the right track on this one. At your ability level and size I wouldn’t go longer than a 170. A 180 would be appropriate if you were an advanced or expert skier, but not a beginner to intermediate. Check out the Salomon X-Wing 8 as they are easy turners for advancing intermediates.
Kevin
Craig,
Great choice of skis. I just set my buddy up on a set and he loves them. I would definitely go with the 177cm. I’m 5’9” 145lbs and ski it in the 177. The 169 is too chattery at speed and there isn’t enough edge there for someone your size. Keep in mind that they will ride like a 172 in a non twin ski. Enjoy!
Kevin
Roman,
You could really ski either length but since you seem to prefer shorter turns and stay on piste I would go with the 165cm.
Kevin
Dom,
At your size you will easily over power that ski in that length. It is a soft ski, and being that it is a twin tip it’s going to ski short (like a 150). If you’re an advanced-intermediate I wouldn’t go shorter that a 165.
Kevin
Corinne,
We do carry a small selection of telemark skis, but have mainly shifted our focus to AT skis, boots, and bindings. Sizing of skis is the same as Alpine skis and like wise for the boots (although Scarpas are a little different). There are two basic binding types the traditional cable style and the newer NTN system. The cable style will be less expensive and lighter weight, while the NTN system provides superior power transfer, lateral stability, and edge hold. Which ever system you decide to go with make sure to get a compatible boot as the to systems are not interchangeable.
Kevin
Thanks for all the information.
I’m 46 and have been skiing since the 70s. Some years more than others. For reasons beyond my control, I’ve not been skiing for 3 years but now want to get back into it. I need to replace my K2 Merlin V 193s for some shaped skiis. I liked my K2s when I got them, but now they’re a bit combersome and I want less of a racing ski and something easier to control. I consider myself an advanced intermediate. Don’t spend much time in the mogles. East coast (non-powder). Switch between short and wider turns. 125 pounds. I’m used to the speed of the longer skis. The ski shop is telling me that I shouldn’t go above 160s. That seems ultra short. Do you have any suggestions for an all-around ski and what length?
Barb
My wife and I just took our first ski leason and loved it we are hooked. I do not want to pay to rent skis everytime we go which will probably be every weekend at least. My question is what would be a good ski for her and me to buy. We want something that will take us from beginner to advanced intermediate, so I will not have to change out to soon as we progress unless that is not the smart thing to do. I am 6ft 195lb and she is 5′4 125lb. Want an all mountain type of ski, something that we can use when we use the lifts and just go on the runs at the ski resort. We live in Colorado and will go to the resorts that are close to Denver (Keystone, Breckinridge, Winterpark). Thanks for the help.
Adam- I’m pleased to hear that you enjoy your Volkl AC50s. They certainly are a fun ski to ski. As for your girlfriend, I would suggest looking at a K2 T:Nine Sweet Luv. K2 skis tend to be more forgiving making them easier to ski and allowing aspiring intermediate skiers to develop more confidence in their abilities. K2 skis initiate turns very well and have a flared, or round up tail design that allows the ski to slide out of turns easier without having that more aggressive grip feel that you may notice in your Volkl AC50s. These will be skis that she can ski and enjoy as you help her explore more of the mountain.
Kate- The Rossignol Saphir 100 skis would be good for a novice to intermediate skier who is looking for a stable, easy-turning ski on groomed surfaces at slower to medium speeds. If this sounds like you, you may consider that option. Otherwise, we have a couple of last year’s skis that would work as well for you. I’m going to include two links below to some intermediate level skis that are equally forgiving, stable, and enjoyable skis to ski from K2 and Dynastar. Two companies that have spent a lot of time in their development of women’s skis.
http://sale.skis.com/womens-skis-w-integrated-bindings/c738/k2-t9-sweet-luv-womens-skis-with-marker-m2-100-bindings-p107753.html
http://sale.skis.com/womens-skis-w-integrated-bindings/c738/dynastar-exclusive-sensation-womens-skis-with-nova-exclusive-fluid-bindings-2009-p141548.html
Barb- I agree in that I think that you don’t need a ski longer then 160cm. Skis nowadays are much shorter then what you’re on now and it might take a little time getting used to the new style of skis and the way they are meant to be skied. If you want that more forgiving ski that is not going to work you too much, but yet something that you can take anywhere then I would recommend the K2 T:Nine Free Luv women’s skis. This ski will be quick enough to make some of those quicker turns on the groomers, but yet wide enough to take on some powder and power through any of the east coast crud. Below is a link to the skis. The 156cm should work out just fine for you as K2 skis tend to be just a bit long for their size.
http://www.skis.com/womens-skis-w-integrated-bindings/c738/k2-t%253anine-free-luv-womens-skis-with-ers-110-tc-bindings-2010-p161950.html
Vicki- The nice thing about skis these days is that many come with their own specific bindings to mount on them, so you don’t have to worry as much about binding selection. However, there are still others that do not come with bindings. One important thing when it comes to purchasing bindings is making sure they are wide enough to mount on the skis. If you daughter weighs under 100lbs, she will most likely be able to use a variety of junior bindings and skis. However, if she is over 100lbs, you may have to look at investing in her first set of entry level women’s skis. Below is a link to our ski size chart where you can look at the appropriate length of ski based on weight and ability level.
http://www.skis.com/docs/size-chart-skis/
Hi - Please can you help me???
I’m a beginner/improver skier and have only been on one ski trip. I’m 5′8″ and about 125lbs.
Please can you advise me of the length and type of skis I’d be best suited for? Apologies if this is a very vague question!
Thanks
Hi Kevin, fantastic website. It elucidate me a lot!!!!
So, i started skiing this year, so i’m a begginner but i’m enjoying a lot this sport.
But now, ideed your help:
I want to buy a pair of ski’s and boots for myself, instead of always renting them. What do you think its the best for me?
In a store here in Portugal, it was told to me that i should buy an intermediate pair instead of a begginner, so that i could use them longer, when i progress.
Please help, don’t know what to do.
Thank you and best regards.
AJ- I’m pleased to here that you both are hooked on skiing. It really is a fun sport. As a beginner, I would not suggest looking for skis that may be too advanced for your skill level. This will make skiing more difficult while learning. Instead, I’m going to suggest a ski for you and your wife that will be suitable for progressing at the sport. These skis have a nice stable platform that will be forgiving enough to make turn initiation more manageable, but yet rigid enough that you will be able to use them for some time. For you, the Dynastar Booster 8 with NX10 Fluid Bindings - 2010 in a 172cm. For your wife, the Dynastar Exclusive Sensation with Nova Exc Fluid Bindings - 2010 in a 148cm. Both of these skis will be perfect for your weekend trips up into the mountains to ski on the ample groomed trails of the Summit County ski resorts. Below are two links to these skis. Enjoy!
http://www.skis.com/mens-skis-with-bindings/c1000003357/dynastar-booster-8-skis-with-nx-10-fluid-bindings-2010-p163605.html
http://www.skis.com/womens-skis-w-integrated-bindings/c738/dynastar-exclusive-sensation-womens-skis-with-nova-exc-fluid-bindings-2010-p163618.html
Love your site, very informative. I live on the east coast. I’m 5′5 and a 240 lb,woman but love to ski. I’ve been skiing since I was 3, but at 42, I don’t do moguls. I love to make short turns, but don’t like going fast. What ski would you recommend that would keep my speed slower, but able to make tight turns or wider turns on the east coast?
Hello team!
What a wonderful website! Was just wondering if you could make a recommendation to give me a starting point for ski hunting. I’m 24, been skiing almost every year since I was tiny, but have always rented skis and think it’s about time I bought my own! I would classify myself as intermediate - advanced intermediate; confident parallel skiier, has only ski’d groomed runs, most comfy with blue runs but have been down the “easier” black runs if there’s someone to guide me. I’m of a small built (gotta love those Chinese genes!), 162cm tall, 97lbs. Many thanks for your help!