Looking to buy your own skis so you never have to rent again — or simply get back on the slopes? Here are all our tips for choosing a pair of skis suited to your style of skiing.
The criteria to consider when choosing your ski size
A skier's profile is defined by three criteria:
- Technical level
- Use/discipline
- Skier's build (height/weight)
You can use the guide below to choose a ski size relative to your own height:
- Piste ski: -5 to -15 cm
- All-mountain ski: -10 cm
- Freeride ski: +5 to +10 cm
- Ski touring: -5 to -10 cm
- Freestyle ski: -10 cm
Good to know: The shorter the ski, the more manoeuvrable it is. That's why beginners choose shorter skis.
Defining how you'll use your skis
Each ski range is suited to different uses and terrain. Here are the different skier profiles to help you decide which direction to go:
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Piste Skiing
You'll need a ski with a traditional camber. Combined with a waist width of around 75 mm, it will give you good grip. Beginners should lean towards a shorter version (-10 cm relative to their height) for better manoeuvrability.
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All-Mountain Skiing
For skiers who love all snow types, all-mountain skis are the way to go. The waist width ranges from 82 to 90 mm, offering good float without making life difficult on groomed runs. They generally feature a tip rocker. Their length sits between -10 cm (beginner) and +5 cm (expert) relative to your height.
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Freeride Skiing
Freeride skis need to float on powder. As a result, they feature more generous dimensions and a waist width of at least 90 mm. The wider they are, the easier it is to stay on the surface. Opt for freeride skis with a tip rocker, or even a twin rocker for optimal float. The length of a freeride ski can match the skier's height (ideal for beginners), but it will offer better float with 5 to 10 cm added.
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Freestyle Skiing
To string together jumps and freestyle tricks, you'll need a twin-tip ski. Identical at the front and back, it lets you ride in whichever direction you choose. For waist width, aim for a model with a width between 80 and 90 mm.
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Ski Touring
Touring skis must perform on the way up as well as on the way down. They are fitted with specific bindings to allow the foot position to change. They need to be light to make ascents easier. For waist width, if you prefer positive elevation, aim for a width between 82 and 86 mm. The wider the ski, the more downhill-oriented the touring ski profile becomes.
Why and how to maintain your skis?
To make your skis last. And ensure optimal glide whatever the snow conditions. Regularly maintained skis guarantee good edge grip and smooth base glide.
- Cleaning your skis
- Edge sharpening
- Waxing
If you're not used to maintaining your skis, you can take them to a specialist shop. But if you're handy, sharpening and waxing kits are available in many shops, and you can find helpful tutorial videos online.
Before storing your skis, make sure you have:
- Loosened the bindings
- A dry place, sheltered from the cold and light, to store your skis.
- Securing your skis properly
- Consider storing your skis in a ski bag.
