How to Choose Downhill Skis

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By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating:

(18 Ratings)

"It's gotta be the skis, man!" The right set of sticks will earn you cheers from the chairlift, the wrong set will send you to the lodge for hot cocoa.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Downhill Bindings
Downhill Skis
Ski Boots

Step 1

Decide on length first. Shorter skis are lighter and quicker-turning, but are sometimes less stable on groomed slopes or at high speeds than longer skis.
Step 2

Choose an advanced-shaped ski with a deep sidecut (narrower at the waist) for more responsive and shorter radius turns.
Step 3

Pick an intermediate-shaped ski with a shallower sidecut (wider at the waist) that will provide a stable platform and smoother ride.
Step 4

Sample skis of varied construction and stiffness. A ski that is stiffer generally requires more advanced techniques to gain greater edge control, as opposed to a softer ski that is more forgiving.
Step 5

Make sure your ski has a tested vibration dampening system to keep your tips and tails from chattering on the hard pack.

Tips & Warnings

Rent skis as a beginner.
Try a variety of skis with different sizes, shapes (side-cut) and construction materials.
A simple rule on size for standard shaped skis--advanced skiers use skis that reach the middle of your forehead or equal to your height, and beginning or intermediate skiers use skis that reach the chin or nose.
Ask the demo or rental shop owner if he or she will apply the price of your rentals towards your purchase.
If you are looking to save money, rent skis until you are set on one or two specific skis, then purchase the pair at a late-season (spring or summer) ski sale. The prices can be less than half of typical retail.
Purchase skis once you're certain you like the sport.
Consult ski publication test reports and a ski shop professional before choosing skis.
Do a demo on any ski before you purchase.
Don't buy a ski with heinous graphics, as you and others around you will be forced to look at it all day long.
If you spend your entire day skiing flat on your face on every pair of skis you try, you are either ill-fated to the sport and should quit, or you should take a lesson. It's not the skis, baby.