Wednesday, October 21, 2009

I'm newer to skiing and don't know what brands to get for skiing I'm an alpine skier?

I'm newer to skiing i have been about 6 times and i know a lot from those expericences but i have no idea where to shop for my gear or were to buy some of it. Anyone know where i should buy and what type of brand i should get for my boots, bindings, skies, poles, helmet, and goggles thats not really expesive.

I'm newer to skiing and don't know what brands to get for skiing I'm an alpine skier?
Unless you are planning to ski 100 days this year, your best bet for this season is to buy only boots... as proper ski boot fit is directly related to ability to improve as a skier as well as comfort and enjoyment of the sport.


To find good boots, go to a specialty ski shop, avoid places such as MC Sporting Goods, Gart Bros. or other large multi-sport stores. If you happen to be in Boulder, Colorado, go to Larry's Boot Fitting.. he is by far the best anywhere, and works with the US Ski Team as well as the CU Ski Team and just about every local Colorado skier. You can find him on Google.


This time of year, lots of ski shops have last years gear on sale, and a knowlegable sales staff can help you choose a boot that feels comfortable and will help you improve as a skier.





If you choose to wear a helmet, and it is a good choice, you should also buy that, rental helmets are not so nice. Just pick the most comfortable one, brands are not important, but some good ones are Salomon, Boeri or Joffa.





As for skis, if you are still learning, you are better off to rent/demo skis at the ski area. Then you're able to try different brands and makes, and see for yourself which ones you enjoy most. Also, ski areas often have "demo days" where you're able to try out for free, or for one flat price like $20 all day, as many different skis as you like. By the end of the season, you'll know which skis you want, and can either buy them on sale over the summer, or check the ski swaps next fall.





Bindings are largely integrated with the skis these days... so if you get Salomon skis, you'll have to get Salomon bindings... Dynastar often work best with Marker, Rossignol makes their own bindings, and Head works with Tryolia. They all make good bindings, so don't worry about brand so much, the important thing is that they suit your height, weight and skiing ability.


Ok, that said, I like Salomon best.. .but that's just personal preference/superstition...





As a beginner, you won't notice any difference in poles, get a cheap pair, as long as they are the right length. To check the length, hold it upside down and grip it just below the basket. Your arm should make a slightly less than 90 degree angle. When you get better, the grip, weight and swing of the pole will make more difference to you and you'll probably want to get a nicer pair.





Goggle lenses are very important and you should always have eye protection on, even in low light. I like Smith, but Bolle, Oakley, they are all good. The lenses should be crisp and clear, and not fog easily. If you have only one pair, get a lens for medium light, so you won't be blinded in the sun, or feel like you are skiing in the dark on a cloudy day. Other options is to get one frame and a couple of replacement lenses. It depends on the weather where you usually ski.





Good luck!
Reply:boots - different manufactuers fit diffreent types of feet. technica has one avail in a wide. lange for more medium ....go to a store and try many on. then you can search for the best boot in your price from that brand.





Skis- swaps are good. season rentals too. if your new it may be better because you may need an upgrade soon.





Poles-my opinion, poles are pole. buy the cheapest you can find that has a decent grip and strap. go to a lost and found.





bindings. i prefer marker, many good ones on the market. buy on a reccomendation for whre you buy the skis.





helmet - also head shape and fit makes a difference. try them on or you'll waste your money





goggles- you really want good gogggles. all brands have an entry level that will do.





goo luck
Reply:It is Very important to get the proper gear for your self. renting for the season s a good option just because you can try out different brands each year.





I personally own my own gear. I have Rossignol Bandit B2 and axial2 120 ti bindings that i bought this past season for less than $400.(a killer Deal) If you decide to buy your gear wait until the end or the season to get all the killer end of season sales.





I would suggest Rossignol or Salomon as the best ski brands.


Also if you do decide to buy go to your local stores and just talk to them about sizes and fittings. Then buy the gear online. Most stores overcharge for gear and you have to pay sales tax. Online you can find deals of 50% off or more plus you pay no sales tax.





I would suggest www.backcountry.com They have great customer service and most stuff has free shipping.





Hope this helps





-Andrew
Reply:Unfortunately, you have picked a sport that you will not be able to get good gear that is not really expensive. I would suggest going to your local outdoor store and talking with them. They will be able to narrow down the equipment that is best for the conditions, your ability,weight,height etc. Where I live, we have ski swaps a couple times a year where you can pickup equipment for below cost that has only been used for a season or two.



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