Before you buy downhill skis: 3 things you should know about

Downhill skiing is fun for the whole family. Whether you’re taking jumps like a pro or braving the hill for the first time, these three things will help you choose the right skis.

The type of downhill skis you buy depends on the type of skiing you plan to do.

• Front side skis: Your basic front-side skis are best on groomed runs and have narrower waists to help make nice carving turns. These are most popular with beginners as well as experts because they can tackle most terrain found at a ski resort.
• All-mountain skis: All-mountain skis can handle almost any terrain, from moguls to fresh powder. All-mountain skis are usually wider and slower, but they’re also easier to control in all kinds of conditions.
• Alpine skis: Usually called alpine touring (AT) skis, these skis are lightweight and designed for uphill and downhill skiing. They vary in width and length, but often use bindings that detach at the heel so you can climb uphill easier.
• Racing skis: For those who need speed, racing skis are the fastest variety. Experienced skiers enjoy racing skis for their stiffness and technical styling, but beginners can find them difficult.
• Freestyle skis: For the skier who spends as much time in the air as on the mountain, freestyle skis are meant for park conditions and often have twin tips so you can ski backwards and forwards.

• Flex: Experienced skiers tend to use firmer skis that are faster but more difficult to use, while flexible skis are more versatile but slower
• Camber: Skis with pronounced cambers, the slight arch in the middle section of the ski, make more controlled turns and are best on groomed runs
• Rocker: Often called reverse-camber, rocker skis curve downwards in the middle for better control in backcountry terrain and heavy powder
• Waist: Narrower waists (the middle of the ski that gets narrower or wider depending on the style) offer superior control, while wider waists have larger turning radiuses and can handle powder easily. Straight waists are sometimes found on racing skis
• Tails: Flat tails give you more power and control. Slightly turned up tails are more versatile and twin tip skis let you ski backwards and forwards.

• Age: Kids’ skis are softer and slower so they can learn safely.
• Height: A person’s height determines their ski length—taller people need longer skis.
• Weight: Heavier skiers need firmer skis so their weight is more evenly distributed, while lighter skiers can use softer skis (especially when starting out).
• Gender: Women can ski on men’s skis—some even prefer to—but you should always try a pair made for women first.

Finding the best ski gear is key to your enjoyment of the sport. You’ll quickly learn your personal style and the equipment you need to excel at it.