Most skiers don't know the difference between types of alpine skis. There are five types of alpine skis: universal twin tip skis, park and pipe twin tip skis, backcountry twin tip skis, skiboards and telemark ski widths. Knowing the attributes of each type can help immensely when buying new skis.
Universal Twin Tip Skis
Twin tip skis have a curved tip that allow new skiers to ski backward much more easily and have more control over their movement. The most popular type of twin tip skis, universal twin tip skis, are for people who enjoy downhill skiing, but also occasionally like to go exploring in the terrain park. It has wide-waist twin tips that can maneuver through freshly groomed snow or terrain park powder.
Park and Pipe Twin Tip Skis
These skis are solely for people who believe that the terrain park and half pipe are the only ways to go on the mountain. These tips have bindings mounted slightly forward of the center of the ski to allow people to perform tricks more easily.
Backcountry Twin Tip Skis
Backcountry twin tip skis are designed for skiing on unbroken snow in the woods or off the trail. They are often fitted with cable bindings, which are able to provide sturdiness and make it easier to get out of a deep snow bank. They are for skiers who enjoy taking in the scenery behind the scenes, or as the title suggests, in the backcountry.
Skiboards
Skiboards are short skis, usually used without the aid of poles. Measuring between 80 and 120cm long, skiboarding is a perfect combination between skiing and snowboarding. They are small, versatile and easy to control. It allows skiers to ski backward and it even provides the versatility to play in the terrain park.
Telemark Ski Widths
Telemark skis are much shorter and a fair amount wider than twin tip skis. These skis are for people who enjoy skiing in deep snow and powder. It allows people to maneuver their way through this powder without falling or losing control.
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