Alpine, or downhill, skiing requires special equipment sized according to your height, weight, experience and the slope conditions where you plan to ski. Whether purchasing or renting, the fit of your equipment can make or break your skiing experience. Hit the slopes with well-fitted boots and skis of the right length, and you'll feel comfortable and safe as you head down the hill.
Step 1
Look for skis customized for the slope conditions you plan to ski on. If you ski mostly on groomed resort trails, you'll want all-mountain or alpine skis, while off-trail and back-country skiers will need specialized back-country skis.
Step 2
Find the appropriate ski length based on your experience by finding your weight on an alpine sizing chart. Subtract 20 cm if you're a beginner and 5 cm if you're an intermediate skier. If you're an expert, add 5 cm. In general, skis should stand as tall as your nose or forehead, explains outdoor gear expert REI.
Step 3
Look for a ski with a turn radius, or sidecut radius, based on your skiing style. If you prefer making gradual turns on wide trails, select a higher turn radius. If you ski with sharp, tight turns, look for skis with a lower turn radius.
Step 4
Select a binding with a tension release setting appropriate for your skill level. The tension release setting, or DIN, dictates how easily your boot will release from the binding. The more advanced you are, the higher a DIN setting you'll want.
Step 5
Bring a pair of socks similar to those you'll ski with to the shop, and try on boots in the afternoon if possible as you feet tend to swell throughout the day. Your toes should touch the front end of the boot without feeling cramped, and your heel should remain on the bottom of the boot when you bend your knees.
Step 6
Test ski poles for proper size by turning them upside down and gripping them directly beneath the basket. With the of of the pole on the floor, your arms should bend at a 90-degree angle.
Tips and Warnings
- Rent and try several styles of skis, boots and bindings before purchasing your own pair. If you plan to buy skis, buy at a slightly higher skill level than your own to allow you to grow with your new skis.
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