Female-specific skis are not just about pretty graphics. These lighter, flexible models revolutionized the ski industry by leveling the playing field for female skiers. Most women's skis feature a forward binding mount that accommodates for a woman's lower center of gravity. Some have a heel lifter, which helps female skier stay forward on their skis. An all-mountain ski is best for women that ski in all terrain and all conditions.
What to Look For
All-mountain ski is a broad term, which encompasses a variety of possible features. Their waist must be wide enough to facilitate carving on groomed terrain, but wide enough for occasional powder and mogul skiing. Women that usually ski in the northeastern United States will be most comfortable with skis that have a 75 to 80 mm waist. A 14 to 18 m turn radius supports both short and medium radius turns. If you live in western states, which have frequent powder days, choose skis with 80 to 98 m waists and 15 to 20 m turn radii.
Confidence Builder
The Nordica Conquer i-Core, with its 84 mm waist and 15 m turn radius features a full wood core, which reduces its weight by 20 percent. The waist is wide enough for handling crud and powder, but stable enough to hold an edge in powder and crud. "Ski Canada Magazine" testers described it as forgiving in bumps and fluid on groomed terrain. This is the best ski for women that are experienced carvers, but need to gain confidence in bumps, powder and crud.
Park, Powder and Groomed
The Dynastar Exclusive Legend paradise suits the female skier that wants it all and is unwilling to accept compromises. It appeared on top skis of 2011 lists for OntheSnow.com, "Freeskier Magazine" and "Skiing Magazine." Its 98 mm waist and 17 m turn radius happily embrace powder conditions, and its twin tips tails prove that ladies can play in the terrain park. While these features would usually prohibit carving, the Dynastar Exclusive Legend paradise has a preflexed shape, which supports easy turn initiation. This ski suits women that live in western states and experience frequent powder conditions.
Quick Carvers
The Head Great One, with its 77 mm waist and 13.5 m turn radius is best for carving short radius turns at high speeds, but its stiff and wide shovels cuts through crud and provides stability in powder. Its stability at speed makes it suitable for women that want to win an age group placement in their resort's NASTAR course.
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