Choosing ski equipment was a simple process in the 1950s. Ski length, pole length and boot size were the only concerns. The advent of shaped skis, as well as the creation of terrain parks, had a profound influence on the ski equipment industry. The sport's growing sophistication inspired manufacturers to create specialized ski equipment to suit different types of terrain, as well as equipment suitable for various levels of proficiency.
Skis
There are six basic types of alpine skis. Shaped skis, which are suitable for carving, are characterized by their smaller waists and wiser tips and tails. A typical carving ski has waist that is smaller than 75 millimeters. Mid-fat skis are designed for people who on groomed and powder trails. The waists are between 75 and 80 millimeters. Powder skiing does not require carving. As such, powder skis, also known as "phat skis," have waists wider than 80 millimeters, which enables the ski to float on the powder. People who spend a good deal of time in the terrain park or half pipe often use twin tip skis, whose tips and tails are curved upward. Their design allows freestyle skiers to ski forward or backwards. Racing skis are stiffer versions of carving skis. Telemark skis are similar to cross-country skis, in that the boot heels are not attached to the bindings.
Ski Bindings
Ski bindings are the devices that connect your boots to your skis. They come with a ski brake, which is a lever that prevents the ski from sliding down the hill should the ski release from the binding. Women's ski bindings are often mounted forward to compensate for a woman's lower center of gravity. They may also have lifters, which keep the boot from sinking into the snow.
Ski Poles
Ski poles are probably the most misunderstood piece of ski equipment. Many people use them for balance, but that is not their actual purpose. Ski poles can be compared to a cat's whiskers. They sense the terrain in front of you in order to determine if it is icy, or if there are rocks. Ski poles are also used in timing. Tapping your pole prior to turn initiation creates an even, constant rhythm. Pole touches help you keep your focus down the hill, which is helpful on steeper terrain. Ski poles consist of a handle, with indentations for your fingers, an adjustable strap a shaft, a tip and a basket. The basket, located at the tip of the ski, prevents your pole from getting stuck in the snow while you continue to move forward. Some ski poles come with interchangeable baskets. The larger baskets are used for powder skiing.
Ski Boots
Ski turns are initiated in the feet and ankles. This means that your boots are your most important piece of ski equipment. Ski boots are designed to suit your level of proficiency. Beginner boots are more flexible. Racing boots are extremely stiff. Avid skiers often have boot fitters install professional footbeds in order to optimize ski performance.
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