Choosing the right downhill skis will enable you to feel comfortable on the slopes. Knowing what to look for and how to determine if you need a longer or shorter ski will take the anxiety out of the selection process.
Step 1
Choose the type of ski that best fits your skiing habits.
All Mountain--Appropriate for all levels of skiers who prefer groomed, powder and mogul runs.
All Mountain Wide--Skis made for those who ski on and off the groomed runs.
Powder--Skis made for light deep snow days.
Backcountry--Skis made for those who prefer the untracked wilderness as their ski domain. Good for powder and groomed runs as well. Also known as Rondonee and Telemark skis.
Twin Tip/Freestyle--These are for those who push the limits with tricks and fast skiing.
Step 2
Determine your correct ski length. A good rule of thumb is that the skis should end between your nose and eyebrows when standing end to end next to you. Heavier individuals need a slightly wider or longer ski to help with turning and weight distribution. Newer skiers may prefer shorter skis for the ease of turning. Short skis are also recommended for narrow chutes; longer skis for wide-open, groomed runs.
Step 3
Recognize that there are gender-specific skis. Women's skis typically come in a shorter size, are lighter weight and have a different mass distribution than a comparable men's ski. Women have a lower center of gravity, are typically shorter than and lighter than men. It reasons that a ski be designed to fit a woman's body. Women's skis are oftentimes made with a wooden core for better control. They also weigh less.
Tips and Warnings
- Choose an all mountain ski if you are uncertain of what type of ski will best suit you.
Member Comments