Of all the different skiing styles, alpine skiing is easily one of the most challenging. The alpine skier has to control speed and direction while going downhill, and maintain balance using only the ski poles. While this requires proper skill and training, the type of alpine skis you use can also affect your performance.

Alpine skis are designed specifically for downhill surfaces. It is distinguished from other skis by a ski binding and safety release. These features fix your toes and heels in a position optimized to provide acceleration and balance. The safety release allows you to unclip your foot when necessary to avoid too much pressure on the skis.

Proportional alpine skis

Length is a vital consideration when buying alpine skis. Choose a length suited to your weight and skiing capabilities. The rule of thumb is that longer skis are best for heavy and experienced skiers, and shorter ones are ideal for novices. Examples of alpine skis that are fit for beginners are carving and mid-fat alpine skis, while the super-fat, fat alpine, and racing alpine skis are for intermediate skiers.

Flexibility required

Alpine skiing involves a lot of maneuvering, and your alpine skis must be flexible to give you maximum control over your direction. A ski’s flexibility can affect how well you perform in different land terrains. To check for flexibility, try standing on the skis to see how it responds to your weight. The ski is flexible enough if it flattens with the weight you place on it. Alpine skis with foam cores are more flexible, although those with wooden cores are more resistant to weight.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION A complete guide to alpine skis is available in Picky Guide, one of the fastest growing online magazines giving free consumer advice and product information.