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| All-mountain Skis |
Where skis used to be 200 cm or longer, that much length isn't needed
anymore. A versatile, do-everything ski for an average-height adult runs between
160 and 180 cm in length. For cruising groomed runs and making occasional forays
into other terrain, look for a ski up to about 75 mm in width under the foot for
versatile performance across most terrain. If you're a powder hound, consider a
ski in the fat or midfat category. If you frequently ski icy snow, stick to a
narrower design.
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| Midfat and Fat Skis |
Shorter skis, from 75 to 100 mm in width under the foot, excel in deep
powder and soft snow. If you have always struggled in powder, this is your
ticket to the next level. Many of these skis are stiff and demanding, and are
designed for accomplished skiers. If you're a beginner, make sure you aren't
purchasing too stiff a ski, as you will not be able to turn it
properly.
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| Slalom Racing Skis |
Racing skis have become incredibly short. The fastest racers in the world
commonly use skis of about 160 cm, while a few years ago they would consider
nothing less than 205 cm. Flexible and responsive, they offer incredibly quick
turning on firm snow, but are not a great choice for deep snow and ungroomed
terrain.
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| Twin-tip Skis |
Favored by skiers who enjoy the challenges presented by half pipes and
terrain parks, twin-tips are very soft and forgiving with a turned-up tail to
land jumps backward. Bindings are mounted farther forward than normal. Make sure
to demo a pair to see if that's what you're after. Twin-tips can be skied in the
same length as all-mountain skis, or slightly shorter, depending on preference. |
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