Have you ever been asked to go skiing with your friends? Since you've only skied once or twice you're a little nervous. You're thinking, where do I start, my friends rented the equipment last time. Selecting ski equipment can be made easy and fun by knowing a few simple bits of information.
There are literally hundreds of manufacturers of skis, ski poles, boots, bindings, and outdoor clothing. Most manufacturers make their wares for the average person. They make it easy for the novice buyer to search their products and choose what fits them best.
A skier's ability plays a big part in choosing the equipment. If you're going to downhill ski you may want to choose skis that are slightly taller than your own height. This allows you to "glide" better and have more control. This is probably a good idea for a novice or intermediate skier. Until you become an intermediate to expert skier the manufacturer of the ski is less important.
Now that you have skis you need ski poles to help with support and making turns while enjoying your skiing experience. Ski poles are generally made out of lightweight, rigid material that won't snap or break easily. When buying ski poles you want to make sure they fit your hands well. Ski poles should have hand loops big enough so that when you put your hands through them you can grip the poles and your hands are secure. Ski pole length is very important for most skiers. When you have your arms at a 90 degree angle in front of you and your elbows tucked into your sides the poles should be a few inches higher in length. This gives you a little more pole to push off with on turns and starting out.
Ski boots must be tight enough yet comfortable. They shouldn't bind or pinch your feet. It's always a good idea to wear thick socks when buying your boots. This will give you an idea of what size fits best.
Ski bindings are the devices that holds your feet in place on the skis. Bindings are sold by several different manufacturers, but generally are already mounted on the skis that you buy. As mentioned before, unless you are an intermediate to expert skier the manufacturer of the bindings will make little difference. The bindings themselves are only as good as the skier and their ability. Bindings should be set to match your skill. A novice, for example, needs to have the bindings a little loose. You want the skis to release easily if you fall to avoid hurting yourself.
Ski wear can be very personal. There are a myriad of colors, styles, sizes, and fabrics to choose from in outerwear. Just a word to the wise. Make sure the outerwear is water repellent, large enough in size to give you breathing space, and will keep you warm in sub zero weather. Buy the best you can easily afford without stretching your budget.
Some skiers wear goggles and others wear sunglasses. You be the judge of what works best for you. Goggles provide more safety for your eyes and can be bought with glare resistant lenses.
Be careful what you buy, but have fun doing it. Make skiing a fun sport you'll enjoy for life.
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