1. Length – choosing for downhill skiing it may make sense to buy shorter skis up to a chin or at least a nose for easier maneuvering due to less energy being required to flex a ski a given distance.
This minimises risk of fatigue and falls. And shorter skis give more balance, stability and confidence as well.
2. Width – for beginners- the skies narrower than 80mm would be much better choice. If you are planning aggressive downhill skiing you would be more confident and comfortable with a narrow-waisted ski.
3. Tip rocker – for beginners the better choice would be the skis with a lot of tip rocker so they’re less likely to catch an edge during a turn, easier to turn and very forgiving if you do make a mistake.
The addition of rocker in the tip and tail tends to make a ski less “hooky” as well as aiding turn initiation.
4. Construction – flex capped construction made of softer wood cores would help make your skiing more flexible and comfortable.
5. For kids and teens – if you take your kids in your ski journey equip them with skis that are a good fit for their current size. For the kids under 6, tips in general should not quite reach their chins, for youth under 12 tips should touch a part of their middle or upper face.
Kids can always ski a shorter ski but may have problems with a long ski. Anyway, choice of shorter skies would be right 🙂
Good luck and enjoy your skiing!
