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How to choose the right alpine skis?
6 minutes
L’hiver est toujours plus agréable lorsqu’on peut profiter des joies de la neige et le ski alpin est l’une des façons d’en profiter au maximum. Que vous soyez un habitué des sports d’hiver ou un débutant, il est important de s’équiper de façon adéquate avant de s’aventurer sur la montagne.
Voici les éléments à considérer afin de bien choisir vos skis, vos fixations, vos bottes et vos bâtons de ski alpin.
Your Skiing Level
- Beginner: if you're starting out on the slopes, choose short, flexible skis; they'll be forgiving and easy to ski. They'll offer you enhanced stability and flexibility for easier turns.
- Intermediate: if you're comfortable on the slopes and want to develop your skills, get reactive, stiff skis that are a bit wider than beginner skis. They'll be versatile and will allow you to progress better on difficult slopes.
- Expert: if you are a confirmed skier, opt for aggressive and stiff skis that are designed for speed and technical terrains. They will offer you a better edge grip for increased control on steep terrain and on icy snow.
The Different Types of Alpine Skis
- On-piste skis: they are designed for groomed slopes. Since they are narrow, they are easy to control on hard snow. They are dynamic skis that offer enhanced responsiveness and grip for turns on groomed snow.
- All-mountain skis: these versatile skis are lightweight and often equipped with a rocker that allows you to explore the entire mountain. They allow you to ski at the edge of the slopes, in the woods, and even in bumps. You can still enjoy groomed slopes, but they are less reactive than on-piste skis.
- Freestyle skis: these lightweight and resistant skis are equipped with a tip at the front and back. They are designed specifically for snow parks.
- Powder skis: these skis are much wider than the other models above. They are specially designed for powder snow. Their construction allows you to float and ski with ease on the ungroomed snow.
Ski Length
The length of your skis depends on your height, weight, skiing ability, and the terrains you prefer to ski. In general, the length of the skis should be between your chin and the top of your head.
For beginners, prioritize skis about 10 to 15 cm shorter than your height. They will be easier to control at low speeds. For intermediate to advanced skiers, opt for skis about 5 to 10 cm below your height. They will be versatile on difficult slopes at high speeds.
The length can also vary depending on the type of terrain you prefer. For example, piste skis should reach your eye level, all-mountain skis should be more or less equal to your height, and powder skis should be 5 to 10 cm longer than your height.
The Ski Aisle
The radius is important because it determines the skis' ability to turn.
- A short radius of less than 15 m is ideal for tight and fast turns. This is ideal for piste skis.
- A medium radius between 15 to 20 m is perfect for versatile turns with all-mountain skis.
- A long radius of more than 20 m is suitable for large curves at high speed.
Ski Flexibility
Flex corresponds to the degree of rigidity of the skis in turns. Soft skis are easier to maneuver, they are better suited for beginner skiers. On the other hand, stiff skis are for experienced skiers who are looking for responsiveness and performance at high speed.
The ski profile
The camber represents the arch that forms under the foot when there is no weight on the skis and the tip and heel touch the ground. It provides enhanced grip on hard snow and offers precision when turning.
The rocker, on the other hand, gives the skis the shape of a banana. The center of the ski remains on the ground while the tip and heel are more raised. This shape allows the skis to float in powder snow. However, a ski with a very pronounced rocker is less compatible with hard snow since its contact with the ground is reduced when turning.
The combination of a camber and a rocker combines the enhanced edge grip of the camber and the floatation of the rocker.
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How to Choose Your Alpine Ski Poles?
Choosing alpine ski poles isn't very complicated. You just need to determine the right length for you. To do this, turn the pole upside down, place the grip on the ground and hold it directly under the basket. If your arm forms a right angle when you hold the pole in this position, bingo, you have the right length. Otherwise, repeat the exercise with different lengths until you find the right poles for you.
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You are now ready to purchase your own alpine skis, but don't forget to complete your equipment with a pair of alpine ski boots. If you have any doubts about the best equipment for you, come and meet our in-store advisors, they will be able to guide you in your choice.
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