The Best Telemark Skis
Telemark skis are for backcountry touring and downhill skiing. They are characterized by free heel bindings and are built to handle steep trails. Telemark skis have heels that cannot be locked down. They are heavier than backcountry touring skis but lighter than alpine skis. To use telemark skis properly, you will need to learn the specific drop-knee turning technique. Telemark skis come in numerous sizes and styles.
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Length
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Telemark skis come in various lengths. The right length for you depends on your skiing ability, weight, the snow conditions and the model. Skiers who spend most of their time on steep terrain need slightly longer skis for speed, edge and control. For easy maneuvering on variable terrain, opt for shorter skis.
Width
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Match the width of your telemark skis to the width of your ski boots. Width affects performance; most telemark skis are wide for easier handling on backcountry terrain. The more weight you expect to carry on a backcountry skiing excursion, the wider your skis should be. Choose narrower skis if the terrain is hard-packed snow. Narrower skis allow the rear ski to edge easier on hard snow. For soft snow, wider skis provide easier turning with stiff, plastic boots. Soft leather boots work well with narrower skis.
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Flex
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Flex refers to how your skis snap back into place when pressure is exerted. Choose telemark skis with a softer flex for navigating deep, soft snow in the backcountry. Stiffer telemark skis are appropriate for racing and treading down packed snow and groomed ski areas. Stiffer flexes provide more carving control. For telemark skiers who enjoy a variety of terrain, a medium flex ski is best. Telemark skis are lighter and have a softer flex than alpine skis.
Side Cut
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Side cut refers to the differences in broadness among the ski's tip, middle and tail, as measured in centimeters. Telemark skis have waists that are 12 to 20 mm narrower than their tips and tails. Their broad tips allow the skis to glide through powder without catching. Blunter curves help skiers carve turns much easier than with straighter skis. Skiers who prefer packed snow or groomed slopes should choose a more pronounced side cut for better carving.
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References
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