How to Size Snow Blades
Snow blades are also known as ski boards. Snow blades are like snow skis, but shorter, ranging in size from 75 to 125 cm. Because of their shorter length, snow blades turn more quickly than snow skis. They are also easier to carry, since they aren't as heavy as full-sized skis. You can use a snow blade's bindings with alpine ski boots. Often skiers choose snow blades rather than snow skis because they want to have the ability to do tricks and snow carving. Sizing for snow blades is almost as easy as buying a pair of shoes.
Instructions
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Choose a snow blade with a binding that is large enough to fit your feet. Bindings for snow blades will fit up to a size 13 (U.S. size). If you have a bigger shoe size, you will need to order custom snow blades.
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Inspect the sidecut of the snow blade, which is the difference between the thickness of the middle of the blade and the tips. The larger the difference, the easier the snow blades carve the snow. Choose the blade with the largest sidecut if you want to be able to do some impressive snow carving and turns.
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Choose how wide you want your blade to be. If you want to ski in fresh soft snow, a wider blade will ride higher on the snow. If you like being able to change directions quickly, choose narrow snow blades as they switch edges faster. Wider blades are a good choice for beginners as they feel more stable underfoot.
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Select what length blade you want. With snow blades, remember that the shorter your blade is, the more maneuverable it is, so it will be easier to spin around with a shorter blade. If you like to perform tricks and ski in the snowboard park, choose a shorter blade. If you want more speed and to be able to carve larger turns, choose longer snow blades since they are faster. Longer snow blades are a good choice for beginning skiers as they are easier to ride.
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Tips & Warnings
When you're ready to buy snow blades, bring your ski boots to the shop with you so the technicians can size your blades accordingly.
References
- Photo Credit photo saut à skis image by vanessa martineau from Fotolia.com
