PickyGuide.Com
 GUIDE TO SKIS RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

Guide to Skis

Ski : What is it?

skis1

Skis are long, narrow boards used for gliding over snow, particularly on sloped surfaces. They are primarily used for sport and recreation, although they can provide a limited means of transport as well. They were traditionally made from wood, using a single solid plank for each ski. Today's skis are usually made of synthetic materials and composites such as fiberglass, Kevlar, and titanium, although most models still have wooden cores. Foam cores are used in low-end and beginner skis.

Skis use friction to heat and melt the snow underneath, creating a layer of water for the skis to glide on. The ends are upturned to prevent them from digging into the snow. They are secured to the user's feet with built-in ski boots and bindings. Skis are usually coated with ski wax, a type of lubricant that lessens drag against the snow. 


view recommended products

Types Of Skiss

skis2 skis3

view recommended products

Kinds of Skiss include the following:

Alpine Skis

Alpine Skis are used for downhill skiing and are designed for fast and easy turning. The bindings hold the foot so that the toe points down and forward, with the heel at a fixed position. They usually have a safety release feature that allows the binding to open when too much pressure is applied on the ski. They are ideal for racing and advanced skiing.



Freeride Skis

Freeride Skis are used for a variety of ski styles and slopes, including powder, slush, and crud. They provide excellent flotation on soft surfaces and work well in tough environments. They are commonly used by seasoned skiers and are ideal for expert racing.



Telemark Skis

Telemark Skis are used for touring and downhill skiing. The bindings hold only the toe, leaving the heel open for steering. They are one of the first skis to incorporate a wide waist, which makes them very stable and easy to turn.



Cross-country Skis

Cross-country Skis are used for long-distance skiing on various types of trails. They are slim and lightweight, with straight or slightly curved edges. The feet are usually bound by the toe, like in Telemark Skis, which emphasizes forward motion. Some are coated with wax to reduce friction, while others have traction patterns at the bottom for backward skiing.



Freestyle skis

Freestyle skis are used for a freestyle skiing, which involves skiing in a wide range of styles and surfaces. They come in different designs for specific skiing styles. Lighter skis are used for aerial tricks, while mogul skiing requires more maneuverable skis. Ballet skis, designed after figure skates, are small and allow all sorts of movement, including backwards, spins, cross-overs, and swirls.

view recommended products

Choosing Skiss (Buying Tips)

Length: Choose a ski length that is proportionate to your height. You can determine your ideal ski length by holding the ski parallel to your body and adding ten centimeters from the top of your head. This only works for straight skis, though – shaped skis are measured on a shorter scale and should be roughly equal to your height.

Waist: Choose a ski with a wide waist if you prefer stability over performance, a narrower waist if you like to race or perform tricks in the snow. Beginners should start with wider skis and move on to slimmer models as they learn to balance and steer.

Sponsored Products And Services

Directory

Are you a manufacturer or supplier? Be listed here! EMAIL US

Are You Picky, Too? Contribute To This Guide!

Do you have something to add to this guide? If your suggestion passes our editorial standards, we will add it in and acknowledge you as a contributor.

view recommended products

Sources

Wikipedia.org
ABC-of-Skiing.com
SportsBay.com


Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

 
QUICK JUMP:
What Is It?
Types Of Skiss
Choosing Skiss (Buying Tips)
Related Products And Services
Directory
Are You Picky, Too? Contribute To This Guide!
Sources
RELATED GUIDES:

Alpine Skis
Cross-country Skis
Ski Bags
Ski Boots
Ski Boot Bags
Ski Goggles
Ski Hats
Ski Jackets
Ski Pants
Ski Poles
Skiing Sunglasses


Search for more Pickyguides: