Ability level
Approximate skill level the skis are designed for.
— Beginner. Equipment designed for those who have no or little skiing experience and are learning the basics of skiing.
— Progressive. Models for those who have mastered the basic skills of riding, but still need practice to use skis confidently.
— Medium. Models for amateurs who ride regularly and in large quantities, but in relatively uncomplicated conditions.
— Experienced. Skiing for those who have surpassed or intend to surpass the experience of the average skier (go to more difficult tracks, learn new tricks); also suitable for the initial training of athletes.
— Expert. Professional models designed primarily for athletes.
The more professional a ski is, the more features it provides, but the price comes at the cost of difficult handling and the need for specialized skills. Therefore, when choosing according to this indicator of skiing, you need to soberly assess the level of the skier. Also, note that some models may be suitable for several levels at once. For example, skis for progressive skiers can be comfortable enough for initial training, or vice versa, quite advanced and suitable for intermediate levels.
Size (length)
The length of each ski. First of all, stability and turnability depend on this parameter: the longer the ski, the easier it is to keep it on course and the harder it is to turn.
The choice for this parameter depends primarily on the height of the rider. However, for different types and styles of riding (see above), recommendations for height will also be different, they should be clarified in each case separately from special sources. It is not worth neglecting the recommendations for size: skis that are too long will be bulky and make it difficult to manoeuvre, too short will be unstable and will fall heavily on loose snow.
Release year
The year, or more precisely, the season for which the skis were produced. Each winter season is at the junction of calendar years, so the model year is indicated by two numbers - for example,
2022/2023,
2021/2022,
2020/2021,
2019/2020, etc.
Model ranges are constantly being replenished, and existing models are being improved. Accordingly, newer skis (
model year 2023 – 2024) are considered more advanced. On the other hand, updates may not match the rider's preferences (or even be insignificant), while the new models are noticeably more expensive than the old ones.
