Different Types of Skis

One of the most important pieces of equipment while skiing is the Ski and the selection of the most appropriate type of ski. It is recommended to use flexible skis for beginner level skiers and stiffer skis for expert skiers.

Snow Blades: Since on snowblades you can stand straighter than expert skiers who may tend to put more weight towards the front, this can be used for a low experienced skier. The carving of snow occurs below your feet which helps you to stand straight, and it is easier to learn using the snow blade. The length of the snow blades range from 70cm to 143cm, and there are thinner and fatter depending upon the preference of the skier.

Racing Skis: Racing skis are usually 160cm to 200cm long and are the longest skis. It is recommended mainly for Slalom ski rides. Since it is very long and is difficult to take quick turns, it is better to initially take shorter turning circles. It is comparatively more flexible and is built such that it could overcome the high speed wind while racing.

Freestyle Skis: These are mainly built for Freestyle Ski rides, so it is built to support jumps and twists by the skier. Since the skier shows different styles to and forth, usually these skis are bi-directional with higher stability. It is flexible and wider, and usually ranges from 90mm to 120mm. It can also be used in hilly terrains by mounting a pair of touring bindings on it.

Carving Skis: The Skis have curved surfaces that allow the surface to dig into the snow and provide the best carving opportunity. These are the types usually used for recreational skiing and offer the skier better stability. The width of the ski ranges from 70mm to 80mm in the center and 110mm towards the end.

Big Mountain Skis: These skis are wider and stiffer than other skis, and it can be used in terrains with deep snow. Only if you are an expert, you could use it and explore with different styles.

All Mountain Skis: They can be used in different snowy terrains and can be used in different skiing types. The width in the center ranges from 80mm to 90mm and wider towards the end.

Powder Skis: These are wider and can range upto 140mm in the middle in order to ride through the deepest snow. It is mainly designed for off-piste skiing and buoyancy through powder snow. The length is chosen with respect to the height of the skier. The skis are thinner towards the end than the middle portion.

Slope Skis: It is mainly used in groomed terrains and is narrower than other skis. The ski waist width ranges from 68mm to 85 mm. The Shovel or the front portion is flexible and the tail portion of the ski is rigid and is usually made of metal plates or carbon. They usually have bindings that are necessary for groomed runs.

Backcountry Skis: If you wish to go for longer rides with adventurous climbs and slopes, then backcountry skis are preferable. The waist width of the ski ranges from 75mm to 90mm, and is lightweight. It is usually used by the sport enthusiasts and expert skiers.