It's ski buying season again. The new models are out. The ski magazine reviews are in print. Ski shops are already-or will soon be-running their pre-season ski sales.
So, if it's time to buy skis, it's time to review the basics.
It's all good to find a bargain, but if the ski doesn't fit, you shouldn't buy it, and only a reputable ski shop with qualified sales personnel can fit you to a ski properly.
S/he should ask you lots of questions. S/he should let you tell them what you want a ski to do for you so you get the most from your skiing experience.
The only dumb question is the unasked question.
A good salesperson will want to know:
How often do you ski?
How experienced are you?
Where do you ski most often?
What are your favorite runs at that ski area?
How long do you want to keep this pair of skis? Are you thinking growing into them (either by size, or ability), or growing out of them (and replacing them sooner)?
What type of terrain do you like to ski?
Do you want versatility, or a specific type of performance?
How much variety in the size and shape of your turns do you make?
Are you timid/moderate/aggressive in your skiing?
Read the magazines reviews, manufacturers' consumer catalogs and websites to narrow your choices before shopping.
Yes, you "get what you pay for," but consider:
The shop's service after the sale - including handling everything from warranty to performance guarantees to buyer's remorse.
If you're buying boots, too, they should have top priority in your spending budget.
Keep in mind:
Your Weight - most manufacturers provides a "recommended weight range" on the product information stickers; keep Ski flex (how rigid or stiff the ski may be) in mind as a factor in selection.
Your Height - your height leveraged against weight helps size a ski that will be big enough to be stable at speed, hold a good edge, but not sacrifice maneuverability.
Standing skis should reach between the chin and the eyebrows.
Sizing skis "long" (towards the top of their head) makes them faster and more stable at speed.
Sizing skis "short" (towards the chin) makes them more maneuverable, but sacrifices some stability at higher speeds. Don't buy skis below chin level.
Yes, that design might go with your parka, but it won't look good if it's the wrong ski for you.
