There is no definite answer to the question ‘Which is the best ski?’ Our list of suggestions above includes skis of all different kinds, best suited for different individuals. The trick to maximize your skiing potential and enjoying the experience to the fullest lies in finding the pair of skis perfect for you. This depends on several factors that require education and guidance. So we are here to help!
Gender
Skis are differentiated into 3 types based on gender. Men’s skis are available for men with a range of abilities and interests. There are unisex skis in the market suitable for both men and women. However, it is recommended that women buy women-specific skis as they are customized for the female stance and anatomical shape.
Ability
Your skill level defines the ski you buy for yourself. Due to modern advancements, there is an array of ski styles for beginners to choose from but keep in mind your abilities before making your choice.
Beginner Level
Novices who are relatively new to the sport trying to link smoother turns and approaching bumps and ice with caution fall into this category. The skis that best suit their skill level have softwood cores, narrow widths, standard camber profiles, and small amounts of tip rocker. These skills will help the user progress to more challenging terrains at higher speeds than before. If a mistake is made, these skis are very forgiving and therefore encourage the user to not quit.
Intermediate Level
Moderately skilled skiers who can ski confidently on their favorite terrains but may get off-track due to bumps fall into this category. Most skiers are at this level of skill so naturally, there is a huge range of skis available ideal for this skill level.
These skis are stiffer for a better grip with deeper side cuts and a shorter radius. They are wider in size with a fuller camber and rocker.
Advanced/Expert Level
A skier with solid overall skills and confidence is considered an advanced level. The skis for them will be longitudinally and torsionally stiff for a better grip at higher speeds. This may also pose a challenge at slow paces. These skis are naturally not forgiving so caution is recommended to not overestimate yourself when buying your ski.
Length and size
The length of the ski depends on multiple factors including the ski profile, the user’s height and weight, skill level, and preferred terrain. As a general rule of thumb, beginners are recommended skis that are shorter than their height, that is, the tip of the ski racers just above their chin. This is because it is easier to take turns with shorter skis. Experts on the other hand tend to use taller skis for greater stability especially if the terrain is powder. Generally, the length of the ski should be within 10-15cm of your height.
Weight and height also correspond to the suitable ski length. If your weight is less than the average for your height, go for shorter skis for more stability, and vice versa.
Expert skiers who know their skis will go for a shorter ski if they want a ski with camber and no rocker, and vice versa.
Style and Feel
Waist width
Skis are usually labeled using three measurements in the form tip width/waist width/tail width. The waist width is the narrowest measurement taken. A wider waist width offers steadiness while a narrower waist width aids in taking quick turns. The suitable waist width depends both on the skill level and the terrain. Here is a list of skis differentiated by waist width for your reference:
. 63-68mm (Race Carver Skis)
. 67-76mm (Piste Carver Skis)
. 75-86mm (Piste / All Mountain Skis)
. 83-96mm (All Mountain Skis)
. 95-110mm (Wide All-Mountain)
. 109-140mm (Powder / Backcountry Skis )
Flex
Flex refers to how stiff your ski will be. Ski with an ideal flex can be chosen by taking into account your weight, your style, and terrain conditions.
. Very Soft for beginners and children.
. Soft for beginners and moderately skilled skiers. Easy to control and requires average skills.
. Medium flex is ideal for varying speeds as it offers both control and stability.
. Stiff for experts aiming to ski at higher speeds.
. Very stiff for overweight individuals or aggressive skiers.
Turning radius and Side-cut
The turning radius of the ski is directly related to its side-cut which are the three measurements mentioned above. A bigger side cut results in shorter turns and vice versa. A short turn radius is 10-15m, a medium turn radius is 15-20m and a long turn radius is greater than 20m.
Profile
The profile of a ski refers to the flex pattern between the ski and the surface.
Shape
The space or tail profile of a ski determines how a ski exits a turn. There are three main shapes:
. Twin
As the name suggests, twin tip skis have the same tip and tail. The tip and tail are rockered for easy backward moves. They are sought-after by freestyle skiers because of its ability to exit turns effortlessly.
. Flared
This ski shape is very versatile in terms of usage on different terrains. Not only does it provide excellent grip but also lets the skier exit turns without straining too much.
. Flat
Suitable solely for higher speeds, flat skis are preferred by race skiers. They require a certain level of time and skill to master.
Camber
Camber is the convex curvature at the base of a ski. A ski cambered at the center distributes pressure and provides edge hold on hard snows. Ski racers almost always prefer having cambered skis. Cambered skis may not proe to be very useful on powder snow.
Rocker
Rocker is basically the reverse shape of camber in which the ski is lifted up at the sides from the ground for better maneuvering, turning and floatation. A rockered ski takes less effort from the skier by staying above the surface and absorbing vibrations from unexpected bumps.
Your riding style and preferred terrain
All-MountainAn all mountain ski is the jack-of-all-trades of skis. A wider waist width for stability and suitable for plenty of skiing styles, the all mountain ski is the second most sought after ski.
Freestyle
Also known as park skis, freestyle skis provide added agility and speed through their twin, durable tips and softer flex. These are generally on the shorter side of the spectrum.
Freeride
If you are someone who enjoys varied terrains and slopes, this one's for you. Added stability comes from its longer length and stiffer flex.
Alpine touring
These lightweight skis are made to go uphill and downhill.
Piste
Responsive and stable skis, piste skis have narrow waist width for precise turns and carving.
Powder
Made to glide over soft, powdery snow, powder skis have a wide waist width, rockered tips and almost no camber.
FAQ's
Q: What type of ski is best for a beginner?
It depends on a number of things, mainly ‘where’ you are going to ski and your height and weight. Generally, softer, short skis are recommended.
Q: What are ski poles?
Ski poles are stick-like equipment that help skiers with their timing and rhythm. They also help skiers move along flat surfaces in deep snows.
Q: What is the most important quality to look for in a ski?
Depends. Not the answer you wanted but it really does depend on the location and your skill level. In one word, versatility is important.