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Selecting the appropriate skis for the type of
skiing in which you participate (ex. racing, freestyle, downhill,
or off piste), your skill level and your body type is critical to
your safety, performance and enjoyment. There are numerous brands,
types, compositions and features available, so there are a number
of considerations that need to be taken into account before selecting
a pair of skis.
The team at Dinardo’s will consider these
factors when helping you select the right skis.
SKIING DISCIPLINES
One of the first considerations when selecting
new skis is to decide what type of skiing you intend to
do. You may need a pair for a single discipline or you
may need skis that will allow you to participate in more than one.
There are many different types of skis available and each type of
ski has its own unique features and applications. Skis can be matched
to popular disciplines that include: alpine, freeride, telemark,
powder, freestyle, cross-country, racing and a number of more specialized
skis.
SKILL LEVEL
Your skill and experience levels are extremely
important factors that must be taken into consideration
when selecting new skis. A general rule of thumb is to purchase
a pair of skis that are designed for a skill level slightly higher
than the one you are currently at, this will facilitate a proper
learning curve. Skis purchased too high above your skill level will
hamper your performance and could be potentially dangerous.
BODY TYPE
Your body type can have a drastic affect on what
equipment will enable you to ski at your optimum performance level.
Your weight, height, build and even gender can influence your ski
selection. Lighter skiers need more flexible skis to get the same
flex in turns that a heavier person gets.
SKIING CONDITIONS
AND SURFACE
Skis can be designed for a specific surface
(artificial snow) or to offer generally good performance on a diverse
range of surfaces. For example, someone who solely skis
on artificial snow may want to select a different ski than someone
going off piste.
SKI FLEX
Ski Flex describes the way a ski bends under pressure
and it has a significant affect on your performance. Generally,
a taller, heavier skier will need a stiffer ski while a lighter
skier will need a more flexible ski.
SKI LENGTH
When selecting the proper length of ski, you need
to consider the skiing discipline in which you are participating,
your skill level and your weight. Generally shorter skis enable
you to steer more easily and carve tighter at slower speeds. Longer
skis are used by more aggressive skiers who want more speed, by
those looking to smooth-out moguls, and to ski in powder and poor
snow conditions.
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