The shaped ski evolution of the 1990s shortened the downhill skiing learning curve and inspired gear manufacturers to develop beginner-specific skis. These curvaceous, easy-turning boards did not require as much muscle power as their long and heavy predecessors. As more people flocked to the slopes, the ski industry developed new ways to accommodate them. Resort managers added surface lifts in novice terrain and instructors developed teaching methods that shortened the transition from wedge turns to parallel carving. These changes, along with the beginner-specific shaped ski models, made the resorts more user-friendly for novice skiers.
History
Former "Ski Magazine" technical editor Seth Masia, in a March 2005 article for the International Skiing History Association, explains how shaped skis affected the novice skier's learning curve. The turning point apparently occurred in April 1993, when shaped ski manufacturers sent their products to Killington and Squaw Valley ski schools. Instructors noted that students were suddenly able to carve turns in all conditions.
Size
If you've ever taken a multiday ski clinic, your instructor might have used the Graduated Length Method. Cliff Taylor of the Mad River Ski School in Vermont developed this technique, which places students on longer skis as they gain proficiency. The skis assigned to you on your first lesson are extremely short. They are easy to maneuver on the surface lifts and relatively flat slopes, but they will be less stable in steeper terrain. Ski gear expert Kevin Palmer advises beginners to purchase chin-height skis.
While chin height is a standard recommendation for novice skiers, weight plays an important role. A heavier person may overpower a shorter ski, whereas even a chin-height ski may be too much ski for an extremely light person. The ski shop technician will ask you your height and weight. Answer honestly.
Features
Shaped skis have a small waist and wider tips and tails. Smaller waists are best for carving, but they are less stable for unskilled skiers. Beginners should select skis with 70 to 73mm waists. Skis designed for beginners are more flexible than the advanced models. Female-specific skis often have a forward binding mount, which accommodates a female skier's lower center of gravity and helps her keep her weight forward.
Considerations
Manufacturers constantly redesign and discontinue their products. A ski that receives positive reviews today may be obsolete within a year, so look for specific features as opposed to specific models. Ski designers, when creating beginner skis, assume that novices have limited balance and foot and ankle strength. Some novices, such as ice skaters, are exceptions to the rule. Frequent lesson takers will progress quickly and outgrow a beginner ski by the season's end. Some shops offer a seasonal rental, which may be a more economical choice.
Warning
Your ski bindings have a release setting called a DIN, which is adjusted according to your height, weight, ability and terrain preferences. Beginners usually use a low DIN setting, which means that your bindings will release during a fall. The ski specialists at Sierra Trading Post warn that novices tend to to fall frequently and advise a DIN setting of 3 to 6.
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