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How to Determine which Skis and Equipment are Best for your Skiing Holiday
It can be difficult to differentiate between the variety of skis, ski poles, ski boots, clothes and goggles available – so good preparation is key and it can even save you some money to learn more about the equipment.
How do I decide which skis are best for me?
Choosing the right set of skis depends on a number of factors like skill level, size and the terrain you intend to test them with. Advanced skiers ought to know about the more complex differences like waist width which is usually dependent on terrain but can also apply in different ski activities i.e. racing, big mountain, piste etc.
As a rough guide, all-purpose skis (Freeride) are about shoulder height in length and have a wide enough surface area to comfortably adapt to any kind of slope. They are perfect for novices and casual holiday skiers but for people looking for the edge in speed and agility, they might just benefit from more specialised skis and ski poles.
What do I need to know about different ski boots?
Uncomfortable and unsuitable footwear can ruin your skiing experience so it’s always best to buy your own pair of ski boots rather than hiring from a resort. Some vendors offer a heat moulding service to tailor boots to your unique foot size and shape.
Again, your skiing ability comes into play when choosing the correct footwear and novices may not need to spend a lot on advanced boots they don’t need – so you can do extensive homework on details like ankle flexibility or speak to a specialist vendor who will instantly find the perfect boot for you.
What are the differences between goggles?
Venting is a major feature of goggles – the good ones will minimise steaming for optimum performance. Some goggles are more convex to provide you with wider peripheral vision. If you wear glasses you will need to find a pair of goggles that are OTG (Over the Glasses) compatible. Alternatively, some goggles can be fitted with optical inserts to match your lenses, substituting your spectacles while out on the snow.
More detailed information on ski equipment can be found at the Snow + Rock Ski Buying Guide section. This buying guide has a numbered system which helps determine your skill level and in turn, your ideal equipment.
