Are you interested in learning how to ski? Are you planning a ski vacation this holiday season? If you’re getting introduced to the world of skiing you need to understand the basics that can allow you to become an expert skier. However, to begin with, you need the right skiing gear that can allow you to get trained in the right way.
In the early days, skiing was usually done by those who are experts at handling themselves on the snow, but incredible advances in skiing technology have made this extreme sport accessible to beginners as well. If you are learning to ski, you need to read beginners guide to learning how to ski and buying the right skis.
There are various types of skis available in the market and that can be quite confusing if you don’t know how to categorize them and choose the one that suits you well.
Here are few great tips that can help you choose the right skis to help you get started with skiing, or to replace it with your old skis.
Quick Jump
Type of Ski
You must be thinking that all skis do the same job, but skis are available in various types and choosing a wrong type can ruin your early investment.
Off-Piste Skis
These skis are designed for skiing in off-piste and powder conditions. They are wider than regular skis and therefore they help skiers to float on the powder, offer more feel and absorb impacts especially when jumping and landing.
Piste Skis
If you are skiing in good snow conditions you can choose piste skis that allow you to do more carving. These skis are usually selected by experts who are good carvers and can handle themselves in tricky conditions.
All Mountain Skis
This type of skis ranges from modified carving skis to powder skis. Most of the first time buyers usually choose all-mountain skis that would allow them to get the easier handling and turn initiation.
Big Mountain Freeride Skis
Experts that can handle pressure and steep slopes usually prefer Big Mountain Freeride Skis which is a cross of powder ski and an old-school race ski offering steady performance at higher speeds.
Backcountry or Alpine Touring Skis
Technically, any ski can be used as backcountry ski, but with the growing popularity of alpine skiing, a new breed of skis have emerged that have lightweight construction, massive dimensions, and cutting-edge rocker profiles.
Length of Ski
The length of your ski is equally important when you are purchasing skis for your training, or when you want to upgrade. Once you know what type of ski is right for you, its time to find the right length. Most ski stores have the sizing guide which should provide you with information on which size is right for you.
Choosing the right length of ski is not just determined by your height, but also by ability and weight. Never choose skis that are taller than you because that is just too long for you. Always search for skis that stand up to the tip of your nose.
Grade of Ski
Most skis come with European grading system and therefore you may also want to check for that before you make a decision to purchase skis. If you have never tried skiing before you can choose Level 1 skis that can allow you to discover the joy of skiing and learning to stop, make turns and even make it easier for you to get up after you fall.
Level 2 to Level 4 is usually for beginners who have spent few hours on the slopes are in the beginner zone. Level 5 and 6 are usually meant for skiers that can easily handle themselves and usually ski in the ‘blue square’ zone. Level 7 to Level 9 are usually designed for experts who would love to refine their balance and try higher speeds, offensive techniques, and tactics and take on any challenges.
Although these tips are important to choose the right skis, it also depends on your personal choice. It is recommended that you choose skis that can enhance your individual skiing experience and help you learn how to ski in the right way or improve your ski holidays. Always try a demo before you make a decision so that you can be sure you’re buying the right skis for yourself.
Find your next pair of skiing goggles using our brilliant guide.
Article Sources:
http://www.backcountry.com/explore/how-to-choose-the-right-ski
http://www.vail.com/ski-and-snowboard-school/assess-your-ability-level.aspx#/FirstTime
