(another) First ski's

A snowHead

Hi Everyone,
I've had a read through a few threads but it seems it really does depend on each person as to what skis are suggested.
I've been skiing for about 8 years or so, one week a year. I've always used rental gear but am looking at getting my own skis and boots. Boots are something that I can go and have a good look at myself but I'm not really sure about the ski's.
I usually stick to the piste but do enjoy a bit of off piste and powder occasionally so I'd be looking at something that is quite good as an all-rounder. Maybe all-mountain skis? I'm by no means an expert skiier but I'm at the point where I'll give any run a go and can cope with the blacks reasonably well.
Oh and I'm 6ft and 10st.
Thanks in advance Smile

A snowHead

Hi tobrien1,

Welcome to snowheads!

At 10st you are definitely on the light side for someone 6ft

Before going in to specifics like which model, let's cover some basics...

If mostly on piste with the odd hop off - into crud, pow, whatever... and you are happy wih that, and see that as where you will be going forward, then you would best be suited to the 165-173cm length range with 70-80mm underfoot. More would detract from the piste performance and not be necessary with only occasional off piste skiing. (queue mid-fat+ fans to chime in now....)

The make and model that would best suit you really depend on your skiing style and where you are looking to progress.
Are you an aggressive skier or laid back?
Do you always ski very forward, always toward the back seat, mix of both subconsciously, or mix of both very consciously?
Do you like doing tight slalom turns?
Do you like doing GS turns/ carving?
Do you love and seek speed or cruise?
What do you want to be doing wih your skiing? Any thing you want to progress to specifically?

All those and more can help determine what might be best for you.
Then, with a shortlist in hand, it is best to test some out if you have the chance. Mountain preferably, freezer if need be.

Well, the person's real but it's just a made up name, see?

Look at Rossignol Zenith or Alias, or the Salomon Enduro.

Latter two have early rise tips so perform well on piste and have that little extra when you stray into powder.

Next year there will be 5 Enduro models with early rise so more choice if you wait, but you'll probably get a great deal in the sales over the next few months.

You need to Login to know who's really who.

tobrien1, welcome to snowHeads!

Get your own boots sorted out first - they are much more important than choosing a ski. Make sure they are properly fitted and listen to the fitter's advice - the process should take at least an hour. Once you have those, you will probably find that the same skis that you rented feel very different now that every movement of your foot goes to the ski and not the gaps in the boot

Help!!

(another) First ski's

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