Alpine Skis

Varieties of Alpine Skis

In choosing alpine skis, it's crucial to think about the type of skiing you will be engaged in most frequently. Skis are categorized by design to optimise performance in specific snow conditions and terrain. The six main groups are all-mountain skis, piste skis, race skis, freeride skis, freestyle skis, and touring skis. Kids' skis are in a separate category as they are tailored to suit a child's physique, being typically lighter, shorter, and easier to master.

What Type of Skis Should You Choose?

All-mountain and piste skis are the most common. These are also known as carving skis and excel on groomed runs at ski resorts, otherwise known as on-piste. While piste skis are ideal for these runs, all-mountain skis are slightly more adaptive, accommodating a broader array of snow conditions, including some off-piste terrain.

Freeride skis cater to those who prefer off-piste adventures and powder snow, whereas freestyle skis, or twin tip skis, are designed for executing tricks and stunts in snowparks. The racing category, which includes slalom skis and giant slalom skis, is crafted for high-speed downhill skiing on race courses. Touring skis are another off-piste option, created for lightweight travel as they often require hiking up mountains. With specialized touring bindings and adhesive skins, skiers can climb efficiently to reach untouched powder for descent.

For further guidance on selecting skis, visit - Buying Skis for Beginners / Buying Skis for Intermediates / Buying Skis for Kids.