How to Buy Shaped Skis

Since the declining popularity of straight skis, choosing between shaped and straight skis is no longer a dilemma. Now the question is, "Exactly how shaped should my skis be?"

Things You'll Need

  • Ski Hats
  • Ski Goggles
  • Ski Jackets
  • Ski Pants
  • Skis
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what type of snow conditions you will generally encounter. Will you be skiing powder in Utah, hard pack in New England, or heavy and lumpy snow in the Pacific Northwest?

    • 2

      Think about what type of runs you prefer. Do you search out groomed cruisers and the mogul fields, or is off-trail more your style?

    • 3

      Find out the measurements of the tip, waist and tail of skis you're interested in. Distances are measured in millimeters. On average, the tail will be roughly 10mm shorter than the tip. The most important numbers to compare are the tip and waist. When there's a greater difference between the numbers, the ski will have a tendency to carve turns.

    • 4

      Check the stiffness of the skis by bending them and by asking the salesperson about their camber and flexibility. Shops usually carry skis that they like, so the salesperson should be knowledgeable about the differences between those you are most interested in.

    • 5

      Attend a demonstration session at a ski resort if possible. This will allow you to test several pairs of skis. Rental shops also carry shaped skis, so you can test several types of skis to determine what you like.

    • 6

      Pick a ski that matches your needs. For groomed skiing, skis with larger sidecuts and less flexibility are fine. If you need more of an all-terrain ski, consider a shape with an average sidecut and medium flexibility.