The twin tip ski is commonly used by skiers who stray away from the recreational riding discipline. Most models of the twin tip ski appear similar, but there are variations in size and shape. Select the type of twin tip ski that best corresponds with your riding style.
True Twins
The true twin is one of the most common types of the twin tip ski. A conventional snow ski has a flattened tail, but the true twin features a rounded tail. When placed on a level surface, the tail of the true twin is slightly elevated above the ground. The true twin gets its name based on the fact that the nose and tail of the ski have identical dimensions in width and shape.
Directional Twins
The directional twin is the other type of twin tip ski. While the nose and tail of the directional twin may look similar at first glance, there is a subtle difference in size. According to the skiing experts at REI, the nose of the directional twin tip is slightly wider than the tail. Much like the tail of the true twin, the tail of the directional twin features a rounded shape that allows it to remain elevated above the riding terrain during turns and maneuvers. Generally speaking, the directional twin ski has a longer blade than the true twin model.
Freestyle
Freestyle riders often prefer the true twin ski due to its compact dimensions and lightweight design. Freestyle skiing, often referred to as slope style, involves high-altitude jumps that consist of aerial flips and rotations. The true twin ski offers increased handling on the groomed runs of the terrain park or half pipe ramp. The elevated tail of the true twin ski helps prevent freestylers from catching an edge while landing tricks in the fakie, or backward, riding stance.
Backcountry
Backcountry riders enjoy the freedom of skiing outside the confines of a mountain resort. The unique shape of the directional twin offers increased handling and speed capabilities on a backcountry terrain. According to ABC-of-Skiing, the widened nose of the directional twin allows you to stay afloat in deep deposits of powdered snow. Compared to pliable design of the true twin, the directional twin features a more rigid construction. This helps to increase your ability to transfer energy between the edges of the skis.
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