SERVICES LATEST

link graphic Once again we have been adding to and updating our ski equipment hire range. Check out the latest 2009 Salomon skis that are now in stock - full range here

link graphic This season we introduce a packed lunch service. Freshly prepared and delivered to the meeting point in Courchevel 1850 each lunchtime - find out more

link graphic Selected skiing & boarding books and DVDs from Amazon - more here

link graphic Ali's massage skills are once again available exclusively to skivo2 guests. For treatment list and info - click here

Selecting the most suitable skis

>> selecting the right pair of skis
>> current ski styles and performance characteristics

 

Since your skis are fundamental to the enjoyment of skiing, knowing what to look for is always half the battle. Before you take the leap make sure you understand the type of terrain you will be using them on and therefore what will suit your needs.

Try before you buy! In larger ski resorts there are often good deals available for the purchase of new skis. Since there are a number of different ski variations available, it is essential when purchasing to know the type of ski which is appropriate to your needs and skiing skill. For a nominal fee some hire shops will offer a 'testing day' for the particular ski/snowboard that you are interested in. The price of your test day will normally be taken off the final price of your ski/snowboard purchase.

At the end of the season (end of March/April), a number of local resort ski and snowboard shops will have good 'end of season sales' offering up to 20 - 30% off the price of the season’s skis and boards. There's definitely some good all encompassing bargains to be had at this time if you can wait that long. In smaller resorts you should bear in mind that choice and availability may be rather limited so if there is a local shop nearby your home town with a reputation for good advice it is always better to go there before going on holiday.
In general before purchasing you should consider the following areas

  • Ski Length
  • Ski Shape and Flexibility
  • Versatility in all conditions
  • Edge grip
  • Design and Colour

Ski Length

There are no steadfast rules about the size of ski to purchase. As you progress and skill level improves, generally the length of your ski will increase from short to longer skis. There are however a couple of basic guidelines to remember when selecting the appropriate ski length:

  • If scared of speed, choose shorter skis. They will enable easier carving turns and be more effective at low speeds. If skiing on Carving skis these should reach between your nose and forehead. For freestyle skiers doing tricks in the boardpark, a shorter ski is definitely more nimble and advisable
  • An experienced skier who skis in different skiing conditions from crud to fresh powder should choose a longer ski which will keep your weight more centrally balanced, and perform better in all mountain conditions

Ski shape and flexibility

The structure and the materials used in the inner core and outer shell of the Skis are indicators on whether Skis are soft-flexing or stiff. Previously, skis were made of wood and therefore designers were limited in their range of options. Although the core of the Skis is now generally wrapped in fiberglass, part of the ski is still often made of wood, and designers now talk about the Longitudinal and Torsional stiffness. If the technicality of ski design is a foreign language to you then follow these basic guidelines:

  • If the skis are rigid, they provide more support and stability. Longer skis will generally tend to be stiffer
  • Soft Skis which are user-friendly, do not always guarantee stability at speed however, they will be more versatile and flexible
  • Skis which are rounder in shape facilitate easier carving turns

Versatility in all conditions

Skis are designed to perform at their peak under specific surfaces or perform well on a multitude. When purchasing, consider whether the skis are to be used largely on, or off piste.

Edge grip

When we say 'Edge grip' we mean the 'grip' in relation to the length of the ski. The shorter the ski, the less contact there is with the snow from tip to tail, the longer the ski the more stable and control the ski will have, thus improving the overall edge grip.

Design and colour

The design and colour of the ski is vitally important to your ‘posing potential’, sadly not much else!