Skiing is one of the most exciting winter sports, but it can also be quite a challenge if you don’t have the right equipment. One of the most important choices you will have to make is which skis best suit your level. Skis come in different shapes, sizes and styles, and choosing the right ski can significantly improve your skiing experience, whether you are a beginner or an advanced skier.
In this article we’ll take you through the different considerations you need to make when choosing skis, depending on your level, the technique you use and the terrain you want to explore. Whether you’re just starting to ski or have years of experience, the right skis can make the difference.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO CHOOSE SKIS BASED ON YOUR LEVEL?
When choosing skis, it is essential to keep in mind that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. Skis are designed with specific properties that are better suited to certain levels and styles of skiing. The right ski provides better control, a smoother feeling while skiing and makes your skiing experience more comfortable and safer.
Beginner: As a beginner, you may not be familiar with skiing or controlling speed. You need skis that are easy to control, provide stability and help you learn proper technique.
Advanced: Advanced skiers usually have more experience and want skis that offer more control at higher speeds, more precision and responsiveness on terrain.
Expert: For experts, skis are designed to make optimal use of technical skills. These are usually stiffer skis that perform well in more demanding terrain and at higher speeds.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKIS FOR A BEGINNER
As a beginner, you’ve probably just started skiing and are working on basic skills like turning, stopping, and maintaining your balance. When choosing skis for beginners, there are a number of aspects to consider.
1. Flexibility: Beginner skis have a more flexible construction. These flexible skis are easier to bend and provide more forgiveness, giving you more control when making turns. This helps you build self-confidence faster.
2. Length of the skis: The correct length of the skis is crucial. Skis that are too long can be more difficult to control, while skis that are too short do not provide enough stability. As a rule of thumb, beginner skis usually reach just below your chin, although this also depends on your height and weight. The shorter skis make it easier to turn, which is essential for beginners.
3. Width: Beginner skis often have a medium width, making them versatile for a wide range of snow conditions. This provides stability and helps you maintain your balance.
4. Forgiveness: Choose skis with a milder camber (the arc shape of the ski) and a lower rocker (the angle of the tips of the ski). These skis are more forgiving and reduce the risk of falls, which is ideal for people who are still in the learning phase.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKIS FOR AN ADVANCED SKIER
Advanced skiers already have more control over their skis and are looking for skis that they can use to refine their technique and ski at higher speeds and in different conditions. This means that the requirements for the skis change. Here are the most important considerations.
1. Stiffness: Advanced skis are usually stiffer than beginner skis. These stiffer skis offer more stability at high speeds and in technical terrain. They help you ski more aggressively, with more precision and less chance of uncontrollable movements.
2. Length: Advanced skiers often choose longer skis, which offer more stability at higher speeds. A longer ski is ideal for skiers who often ski on harder snow or icy slopes, but it can be more difficult to maneuver than shorter skis.
3. Rocker and camber: Advanced skis often have a more advanced combination of camber and rocker. Skis with a traditional camber provide more grip and stability on hard snow, while skis with a rocker or an “early rise” facilitate turns and help skiing in powder snow. It’s important to choose based on the type of terrain you spend most of your time on, such as groomed pistes or off-piste.
4. Terrain and skiing style: Advanced skiers need to think about where they ski most of the time. If you ski a lot off-piste or in powder snow, skis with a wider width and rocker are the best choice. Skiers who mainly limit themselves to groomed slopes should choose skis with a firmer camber for more grip and precision.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKIS FOR AN EXPERT
Expert skiers have advanced technique and a lot of experience, which means they are looking for skis that will help them reach the limits of their skills. For experts, it’s often about maximum performance and control.
1. Extremely stiff skis: Expert skiers often choose the stiffest skis they can find because they respond best at high speeds and in challenging terrain. These skis offer less forgiveness, but it offers the ultimate in responsiveness.
2. Length and Geometry: Expert skiers typically choose longer skis, which provide the stability and control they need to make complex turns and tackle difficult terrain. The geometry of the skis also plays a big role, with wider skis for off-piste skiing and narrow skis for winding, hard pistes being preferred.
3. Balanced rocker and camber: Expert skiers often prefer skis with mixed rocker and camber, depending on the terrain. A tighter camber provides the necessary grip on hard snow, while a rocker at the ends of the skis facilitates maneuverability in powder.
CONCLUSION: CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKIS IS ESSENTIAL FOR YOUR SKIING EXPERIENCE
The right skis can completely change your skiing experience, whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro. Choosing the right ski can help you get the most out of your technique, maintain control, increase your enjoyment and prevent injuries. The most important thing is to find a pair of skis that suit your ability, style and the type of terrain you will be skiing most.
Remember that it is always good to seek advice from a specialist at the ski shop, especially if you are unsure about which ski is best for you. They can help you make the right choice based on your level, body type and skiing goals. Choosing the right skis is an investment in your enjoyment and safety on the slopes.