Are you considering purchasing your own skis? Are you looking to replace worn-out skis that may not endure another season? Perhaps you're ready to acquire a new pair to enhance your collection. In this article, we will guide you on selecting the most suitable skis for you and your preferred style of skiing.
1. Identify your skiing style
There's a diverse range of skis catering to various terrains and skiing techniques, each offering different models tailored to various skill levels. While it might seem visually plausible to use powder skis on groomed slopes, the reality presents a different scenario. Therefore, it is crucial to opt for skis that align with your specific style of skiing.
Choosing the right type of skis is crucial for a great skiing experience. Here are some key considerations to help you make the right choice based on your skiing preferences:
On-Piste Skis:
For those who enjoy carving on groomed slopes, choosing the right on-piste ski is crucial. These skis, typically rigid and narrow (less than 85mm waist width), provide grip on hard-packed snow, allowing for stylish turns. Depending on your skill level, you can opt for more flexible skis with a waist width between 72 and 84mm, suitable for occasional or intermediate skiing.
Performance range skis are designed for assertive skiers seeking marked turns, with options for more sidecut for tight turns or less sidecut for wider arcs. Race skis, developed with professional athletes' technologies, cater to very skilled skiers. Adding on-piste skis to your collection is a good idea, especially if you usually freeride and need an alternative in unfavorable backcountry conditions.
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To sum up, on-piste skis are
- Suitable for groomed slopes.
- Rigid and narrow for grip on hard-packed snow.
- Shorter sidecut radius for tight turns.
- Varied options for different skill levels.
Freeride and All-Mountain skis :
If you crave powder snow and seek wild lines with optimal conditions, you're undoubtedly a freerider! Freeride skis, with a waist width between 90mm and 120mm, feature flexible tips and large rockers, offering a floating sensation over powder. Learn about rocker and ski camber in our article for guidance on choosing freeride skis.
All-mountain skis, versatile for both slopes and off-piste, have a larger size (around 85-90mm waist width) with a progressive tip rocker for powder. Tailor your choice based on your preferred skiing terrain, whether 50/50 groomed slopes/backcountry or 30/70 groomed slopes/backcountry, making them ideal for freeride enthusiasts.
Backountry Touring skis
Prefer open spaces away from crowds? Enjoy the physical challenge of skiing uphill? Opt for backcountry touring skis. This fast-growing sport requires specific equipment, with ski weight, bindings, and boots being crucial criteria.
Classic touring skis are lightweight, with a waist width around 75-80mm. Featuring rockered tips and consistent dimensions from tip to tail, these skis facilitate easy maneuvering in soft powder and provide solid grip on hard-packed snow. For further insights on touring skis, read this article.
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To sum up, Backcountry Touring Skis are :
- Light and suitable for uphill skiing.
- Waist width around 75-80mm.
- Rockered tips for soft powder and good grip on hard snow.
Freestyle and snowpark skis
To pull tricks in a snowpark or in a half-pipe, you will need some freestyle skis. They are very flexible, so they absorb shocks, and they are shaped as to ensure maximum manoeuvrability. They are aimed at skiers who are as comfortable in the air as they are on snow. Twin tips and tails help in the approach to jumps and even allow you to ride or land switch (backwards).
This type of skis is for when skiing is above all, a matter of style!
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Freestyle and Snowpark Skis:
- Very flexible for tricks and jumps.
- Twin tips and tails for maneuverability.
- Aimed at skiers comfortable in the air and on snow.
Telemark Skis:
Telemark first appeared in Norway and was named in 1868 after the Telemark region, the sport was a predecessor to what later became alpine skiing. Telemark bindings and boots are different from those used in alpine skiing due to the free-heel bindings. The technique used in turns is that of genuflexion (slide the outside ski forward, bend it deeply at the knee and lift your heel up on the inside leg). This movement is like no other and is physically demanding.
There are skis dedicated to telemark, but you can also choose skis from the alpine ski range that can be adapted to your needs e.g. by mounting free-heel telemark bindings.
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Telemark Skis are:
- Dedicated to the telemark skiing technique.
- Different bindings and boots compared to alpine skiing.
2. Consider Your Preferences:
Consider the conditions you're likely to encounter on the slopes—whether it's groomed trails, powder, or backcountry terrain. Opt for versatile skis that excel in various conditions, providing adaptability for different skiing scenarios. For those who prioritize versatility, selecting skis that can handle a range of situations becomes more appealing than specializing in a specific skiing area.
3. Ski Length:
The length of your ski is influenced by both your physical build and technical proficiency on the slopes. Consideration of your height, weight, and skiing expertise plays a crucial role in selecting the appropriate ski length. Additionally, manufacturers often offer weight-based recommendations, providing valuable guidance to ensure an optimal skiing experience based on individual characteristics.
- General length guidelines based on height:
- On-piste skis: 15cm to 5cm shorter than you.
- All-mountain skis: 10cm shorter than you up to your actual height.
- Freeride skis: 5cm to 10cm taller than you.
- Backcountry skis: Your height +/- 5cm.
- Touring skis: 5cm to 10cm shorter than you.
- Freestyle skis: 10cm shorter than you up to your actual height.
4. Additional Considerations:
- Width: Consider the width of the ski, which impacts stability and floatation on soft snow.
- Rigidity: Stiffer skis offer stability at high speeds, while softer skis are more maneuverable.
- Camber: Different camber profiles affect the ski's behavior. Research camber and rocker profiles for your chosen type of skiing.
5. Try Before You Buy:
- If possible, demo skis before making a purchase to get a feel for how they perform on the slopes. In our shop, we have a selection of skis to try before purchasing. That's why, hiring your skis is a good option before buying your own pair. This is a good opportunity to test different type of skis and brands and see which one is the best for you !
6. Consult with Experts:
Seek advice from experienced skiers or professionals at ski shops for personalized recommendations. In Nevada Sports Les Gets, our experienced staff and our ESF ski teachers are here to help you finding your ski style.
By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and find skis that enhance your skiing experience based on your preferred terrain and style
