Downhill skis are the most popular type of ski used--these skis, also called Alpine skis, are used for any Alpine skiing that occurs on mountain and hill slopes. Downhill skis feature several different variables to consider, including the waist width, material used to make the skis and the angle of your front tips. But the most basic decision to make on downhill skis is their size. It requires taking your height, skill level, and on occasion, weight, to find a ski type that best suits you. Having the right set of skis will make skiing easier and more fun.
Step 1
Find a ski sizing chart to determine the length of skis that will work best for your height. Use a different sizing chart to determine the recommended ski size according to your weight. Ideally, your weight and height ski length ranges will cross over one another, providing you an easy choice for the length of ski you are most likely to enjoy. If your weight and height ski ranges are far apart from one another, choose something near the lower end of the longest ski range provided. For example, if your recommended ranges are 140 to 150 cm and 180 to 190 cm, you are probably better off looking at a ski close to or less than 180 cm. However, because this is an atypical situation, it is recommended you consult a ski specialist to make sure you get the proper ski length for your body size.
Step 2
Make adjustments to the length of your skis based on your talent level. In general, beginners should stick near the lower end of their ski range. Shorter skis provide greater maneuverability, and although this inhibits your maximum ski velocity, it isn't a bad thing for beginners to take it slow. Intermediate skiers, on the other hand, might want slightly longer skis, depending on their comfort level. Most expert and professional skiers will choose longer skis for their body size, because they want the best speeds possible and are capable of adeptly steering longer skis.
Step 3
Choose ski bindings based on your skill level and body type. The biggest single factor in a ski binding is its release setting--the point at which the bindings let go of your boots, allowing the skis to separate from your body. This is an important factor when you enter into a crash, because skis that are attached can pose a threat to your health. In general, beginners or intermediate skiers should have ski bindings with low release settings, because the skiing they do won't be that aggressive, although larger individuals might need a higher release setting. Kids also need ski bindings with a low release setting, because they are unlikely to put much stress on the skis except in the instance of falling. Expert skiers, on the other hand, will want high release settings that allow for aggressive skiing without the risk of premature release.
Things You'll Need
- Ski sizing chart
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