In the past decade, alpine ski technology has changed dramatically. By now, ski shops are only carrying the parabolic or shaped skis. The 200 centimeter straight skis are a relic of the past. As ski-making technology becomes more sophisticated, the manufacturers are constantly coming out with new models. For the inexperienced buyer, choosing a pair of alpine skis can be more confusing then choosing a mortgage lender.While there are many factors that go into choosing the right downhill skis, you must first make an honest assessment of your level. This can be a daunting task, because even ski professionals will often debate the qualifications for specific levels. However, for simplicity's sake, let's define skier levels by two factors: The terrain you ski and the type of turns you make. Beginners ski exclusively on green trails. Once they are past the learning stage, they can link wedge turns on easy terrain. Intermediate skiers are starting to keep their skis parallel. They generally ski on blue trails. Advanced skiers carve their turns. They venture on to black trails, the pipe, and bump runs. Expert skiers often enjoy skiing off-piste. Skier type is often wrongly confused with skier level. Skier type has more to do with attitude than with skill. Type I skiers are conservative, type II are a bit more aggressive, and type III are very aggressive. An advanced skier may ski conservatively, while a beginning skier may ski aggressively. Skier type not only affects what sort of ski you choose; it also influences the din settings on your bindings.
Once you have determined your level and type, you are ready to choose your skis. Beginner skis are often termed "carving skis." If you are new to the sport, these may be a good choice. However, if you are becoming really serious about downhill skiing, and you plan to take many lessons, don't buy a ski that you may outgrow within a year.
A ski described as "carving intermediate" is generally suitable for skiers who enjoy groomed intermediate trails. In contrast, an all-terrain intermediate ski is for skiers who ski intermediate terrain under any condition. All-terrain expert skis are generally for people who can ski any terrain under any condition. If you have a passion for powder, you might want to consider a powder or "fat" ski. These skis have a wider shovel, which allows them to float in powder conditions. Are you a speed demon? Choose a stiffer ski. Do you enjoy showing off in the pipe? Consider a freestyle or twin-tip ski, which will allow you to ski backwards. Recently, manufacturers have been designing female-specific skis. Dynastar, Volkl, Rossignol, and K2 have been the forerunners in the Women's Ski market. K2 even uses beautiful ski graphics. However, don't choose a ski for its graphics. Before purchasing any ski, find out when your local mountain has free demo-days. Test a few skis in a day prior to making a decision.
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