What To Look For
Choose skis that have sharp edges and good camber (give beneath the skis when they lay flat). Also make sure the mounting deck of the skis is secure and will fit your boot (some bindings will only fit certain brands of boots).
Look for skis that are not too long. Proper ski length will depend on your skiing ability and weight. Beginner skiers start with shorter skis and progress to longer ones.
According to the ABC of Skiing website, "most carving skis should reach between your nose and your forehead." Once you progress to an intermediate level, the type of ski you are looking for will also factor in to the length equation. The Web site indicates most skis come in lengths from 175 to 210 cm.
Common Pitfalls
First-time skiers can sometimes fall victim to marketing campaigns and fancy advertising. It is not necessary to buy the most expensive pair of skis, especially when you're first starting out. Rossignol is a well-known brand name, and the company has been making and improving skis for decades. If you opt for last-season's model, you can save some money. You can always upgrade once you decide to commit to the sport.
Where To Buy
Rossignol skis are available at most sport retailers as well as online. First-time buyers should go into shops and try out skis before they buy. Experienced skiers can find great deals online at Web sites such as backcountry.com and dogfunk.com. Rossignol.com also has the latest products.
Cost
Skis range in price from about $100 to several thousand dollars. Customers can generally get a good pair of Nordic skis for about $150, and some Alpine skis for about $400. It's important to remember that those costs are just for the skis themselves, and that doesn't include bindings, boots or poles.
Comparison Shopping
The S 3 Freeride is a good alpine ski in powder and on groomed trails, according to reviewers at the Real Skier Web site. This is the one to buy if you're looking for all-purpose downhill skis. For powder only, consider the S 7 Freeride. If you're looking for a beginner ski, Real Skier recommends the Trato 70 TLD TI. They call it an "effective teaching and learning ski."
The Cross Country Skier Web site likes Rossignol's new Evo Nordic line for men and women. It's about 20 cm shorter than traditional Nordic skis, but it is a good ski for beginners. For an all-purpose Nordic pair look for the Karhu Sweeper, it "floats over the snow like a snowshoe, glides like a ski and climbs easily," according to the site.
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