Properly selected equipment is the foundation of safe and enjoyable skiing. Here is what to look for when choosing skis, ski boots, and poles.
Choosing skis
When selecting skis, consider your skill level, height, and weight. It is also worth asking yourself a few questions. The answers will make it easier to find the “perfect” skis and help you avoid trouble on the slopes.
- How many days a year do we spend skiing?
- What slopes do we choose: difficult, intermediate, or easy?
- How many years have we been practicing this sport?
- What skiing style do we prefer: technical skiing on agile, short-turn radius skis, or faster skiing on longer skis with a large turn radius?
When buying, do not be guided solely by price. Aim to choose the skis best suited to your skill level. In recent years, there has been a trend toward shorter skis, but let’s not go to extremes: skis that are too short lack stability and often wash out of turns at high speeds.
Optimal ski length
The best solution is skis reaching chin to forehead height—that is, skis with a shorter turn radius. For beginners, we choose skis reaching chin height (about 15 cm below body height). For more aggressive skiers, we select skis close to body height. After purchase, remember to properly set the binding release values (DIN). It is best to have this done by a professional ski service.
In shops, you will also find skis designed specifically for women. They are about 15 to 20% lighter than men’s models, feature a center of gravity shifted further forward, and have slightly elevated binding heels, which makes bending the knees easier and offers more confident control over the skis.
Skis for children
When it comes to children, selecting skis is simpler. Most manufacturers offer skis with a composite core, which are flexible, lightweight, and intended for young skiers with intermediate technique. For experienced kids who love racing and speed, we recommend wood-core skis: stiffer, faster, and more demanding.
Children’s skis are sized similarly to adult skis—about 15 cm below height. The exception is children aged 3 to 5, for whom skis should reach chest height (the sternum). Remember that a child outgrows skis every season or two at most. Skis that are too long make mastering the basics difficult and can discourage a youngster from skiing. Read more about skis for the youngest skiers in our guide on how to choose skis for a child.
Ski boots
Choosing boots is far more complicated and requires patience, and often expert advice. The most crucial factor is shell stiffness, referred to by skiers as flex. Boot flex determines its intended use and comfort level. We distinguish three stiffness tiers:
- Soft boots, flex 40 to 60: for beginners who prioritize comfort and convenience. They provide less ski edge hold, making them unsuitable for high speeds.
- Medium boots, flex 60 to 80: for intermediate skiers. These are the most commonly purchased boots in Poland, offering the widest selection.
- Stiff boots, flex 90 to 140: stiff and demanding boots for experts, instructors, and highly advanced skiers.
Choosing boots based on color or price is a mistake that will negatively affect technique and comfort. Never buy boots “one size larger”, as ski boots pack out with use, increasing interior volume by about 3 to 5 mm, and unwanted foot movement inside the boot impairs ski control.
Ski boots are waterproof. A damp sock is the result of foot perspiration, so wearing two pairs of socks will not help—on the contrary, it will only fatigue your feet.
Women’s boots are lighter and lower, featuring a characteristic calf scallop, and have thicker liner insulation because women’s feet get cold more easily. Flex ratings are similar to men’s boots.
When buying boots for a child, proper stiffness and correct sizing are crucial. Never buy boots intended to last 3 to 4 seasons. Oversized boots increase injury risk. An extra margin of up to 1 or 1.5 cm is acceptable, similar to athletic footwear.
The simplest rule when trying on boots: after stepping in and buckling up, standing with knees straight, your big toe should lightly touch the front wall. Once you bend your knees and press forward with your shins, the foot should slide back slightly, and you should feel a little room at the front of the boot.
Choosing poles
An indispensable piece of a skier’s gear is poles. Choose poles equipped with safety straps and baskets.
To determine the correct length, turn the pole upside down with the basket on top and place the grip on the floor beside you, gripping the shaft just beneath the basket. The pole is properly sized when your forearm and upper arm form a right angle.
Have doubts about choosing equipment? Ask our instructors during private lessons or contact us.
