Alpine skiing is an exciting albeit expensive sport. Since most skis have price tags ranging between $300 and $1,400, skiers should take advantage of the try-before-you-buy feature most ski resorts and ski shops offer. In many cases, the rental cost of these skis, called demo skis, may be applied to the purchase price. Even if you can't afford a new pair of skis, trying the occasional demo can be a cost-effective means of riding upgraded skis for special conditions.
Selecting Demo Skis
Ski manufacturers create about 1,000 new ski models each years. Reviews listed on ski magazine websites can assist you in the selection process. Start by narrowing down your choices according to your terrain preferences and skill level. "Skiing" magazine interviewed a representative from Line Skis, who suggested trying demo skis from on-mountain shops, and then making every type of turn in your skill-set to help you decide which type of ski to buy. Some ski schools, such as the ones at Vail Ski Resort in Colorado, Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort in Oregon and Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont offer ski clinics in combination with their demo workshops. These are particularly helpful because the instructor offers feedback about your technique on different skis. Try to demo at least two skis in a day.
For Beginners
If you've been performing wedge turns on the bunny slopes, and want to carve parallel turns, you will need a longer and shapelier ski. Look for skis with waistlines that measure between 65 and 75 mm. Choose flexible skis at this point of your learning curve, because a stiffer ski will be too hard to maneuver. Look for ski reviews that use the words "forgiving" and "stable."
Advancing Intermediates
Intermediates who have mastered the art of the carved turn can progress to the next level with a stiffer and longer ski. Wider waists, between 76 and 88 mm, are versatile in crud and powder. Skis reviewed as being stable at higher speeds will help you beat your ski buddies down the mountain. Stiffer skis are usually faster, so choose them if you want to earn a pin on the NASTAR course.
Powder Skis
Waist width was once the primary distinction of powder skis, but rocker technology, also called reverse camber, revolutionized their design. Rocker skis have upturned tips and tails, which prevent them from diving and getting stuck in the snow in deep powder. Skis with waists measuring between 90 and 120 mm provide an optimal powder skiing experience, but shapelier skis, with a more pronounced sidecut, provide some maneuverability in hard snow.
Final Selection Process
Skiers should keep thinking while they demo the ski. Evaluate your edge control, speed and turn initiation on a specific ski and compare with the other demo models. If possible, ask a friend or an instructor to video your performance. How you feel does not always directly transfer to how you look. Your older skis may be reinforcing old habits, which your demo skis correct.
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