The growth in popularity of skiing inspired manufacturers to create different types of equipment. They make gear for carving, powder, racing, and park and pipe. Most manufacturers make female-specific ski equipment. The most appropriate equipment depends on your skills, terrain preferences, height, weight, and foot and ankle strength. Flexible equipment is more forgiving, but it will not provide speed or support on challenging terrain. Stiffer skis and boots help you ski faster and provide support on steep terrain, but novice skiers might not be strong enough for stiffer skis.
Comparing Ski Boots
Step 1
Put on a pair of ski socks, and go to the ski shop. Describe your skills and terrain preferences to the boot tech. After he measures your feet, ask him to choose four pairs of ski boots appropriate to your needs.
Step 2
Place one boot of each model on each foot. Walk to a mirror. Flex your knees and shift your weight forward, so that your shins touch the boot tongue. Check the mirror to see which boot allows greater flexion. If the heel of either foot lifts as you flex your shin, the boot is inappropriate.
Step 3
Shift your weight so that you are on the big toe of one foot and the little toe of the other. Flatten your feet and shift your weight in the other direction. Note any lateral ankle pain as you shift your weight. Excessive pain can mean that the boot is not appropriate for your lower leg shape. Likewise, if your ankle flops uncontrollably from side to side, the boot is either too flexible or too big.
Step 4
Select the best fit of the two, and then repeat the process with the other two boot models. Select the best fit of the second two, and then compare the two winners.
Comparing Skis
Step 1
Go to the ski shop, and reserve a two-day demo package for two pairs of skis appropriate to your level and terrain preferences. Arrange to demo one pair in the morning and the other in the afternoon.
Step 2
Ski three types of your favorite terrain. Ask a friend or instructor to video your skiing. Repeat the process with the second pair of skis.
Step 3
Go back to the mountain on the second day. Demo the same skis, but, since conditions change throughout the day, reverse the order of demonstration. Have your friend or instructor video you.
Step 4
Watch all four videos. Check for turn completion and fluidity, speed control and posture. If your hips are sitting back toward the ski tails, the ski might be too long. Watch your carving skills. If you can't get your skis on edge, the ski is too stiff. Choose the ski that best enhances your skills.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask if the resort offers free demo days or equipment demo workshops. Try your boots on in the late afternoon, when your feet are probably swelling. You will get better service if you plan to purchase foot beds for your ski boots. Professional boot fitters perform a 100+ checkpoint evaluation on your ski boot and alignment.
- Avoid over-flexible equipment if you plan to take regular lessons.The skis and boots may be inappropriate within a year.
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