What are the best cross-country skis to buy. The best alpine skis of famous foreign manufacturers. Equipment for skating
It would seem that the answer lies on the surface - contact a consultant in the store. However, it is far from a fact that in the pursuit of profit you will not be sold expensive and, of course, high-quality skis that will be so fast and uncontrollable that a trip to the emergency room after a winter holiday is guaranteed.
How to avoid becoming a victim of marketing traps? How to choose the right skis? What parameters to pay attention to first of all? All questions will be answered by our article.
Main types of skis
If a person skis only during short winter weekends, then it is quite difficult to navigate and choose the right sports equipment among a huge assortment. Therefore, you need to know what types of skis exist and understand what kind of riding and skill level they are intended for.
All skis can be conditionally divided into several categories. Let's consider them in more detail.
Depending on the level of skill, skis are divided into the following types:
- Professional;
- Amateur;
- Tourist;
- For children and teenagers.
Depending on how you ride:
- Mountain;
- Cross-country.
The last two categories of skis have a broader classification, as they are suitable for different disciplines. Therefore, which skis are better - mountain or cross-country - we will determine using a comparative review.
Alpine skiing has the following classification:
- Skis for ski-cross. Designed for professionals and lovers of extreme driving. They are agile but unstable. An athlete must be able not only to stand well on skis, but also to quickly respond to changes in the situation. Such skis are made of the most durable material.
- Carving skis. Maneuverable and easy to handle. Slightly tapered in the middle. Allows the skier to take turns easily. Requires special riding skills.
- Fan carving skis. Designed for experienced skiers who love skiing without poles. The speed of such skis is small. They are controllable, since an elevated plate is provided between the boot and the ski itself.
- Freestyle skis. Suitable for snowboarders. These skis have a curved toe and heel. This form allows the skier not to fall, but to move on if he landed with his back to the track.
- Skis for a ski tour. Stable, non-slip, well controlled. Designed for areas where there is no lift. Riding on such skis is as safe as possible if the athlete has skiing skills on level B tracks.
- Skis for freestyle backcountry. Thisfairly wide skis that are designed for driving on snowy and uncleared terrain. The handling of such skis is as high as possible. They are stable and strong.
- Freeride skis or with slim waist. The width of such skis is 80 mm. Suitable only for professionals, as they are very fast, poorly controlled and require special skills to drive on the highway.
- Wide skis. They have a wide middle, nose and heel. Designed for skiing during the thaw. Do not sink in the snow, maneuverable.
Based on the above classifications, we can conclude that alpine skiing is aimed at professional athletes or for those amateurs who have already mastered the basics of skiing on entry-level slopes.
Cross-country skiing is divided into only two groups:
- For classic move. These are long skis with a smooth surface, which are covered with a special protective layer. This layer prevents the ski track from slipping backwards.
- For skating. Short skis that have a slight rise in the center. This design contributes to the stability of the athlete when climbing the mountain.This type of ski is suitable for tourists who like winter walks in the forest or mountain slopes. They require basic riding skills.
Also in a separate category are hunting skis, which are divided into kamus and holits. These products are designed for riding in a forest area where there are no cleared trails and there is a possibility of falling through the snow. They are stable, not too fast and manageable. Not suitable for classic mountain skiing.
Key characteristics of skis
The physical parameters of the skis determine how they behave while riding. Therefore, if you do not know which skis to choose - fast or more obedient - you should familiarize yourself with the parameters that affect the speed of movement:
- Ski length. This is the main characteristic that affects the speed of the skier on the track. Therefore, it is worth remembering that the taller and heavier a person is, the longer he needs skis. Long skis don't sink in the snow, they go fast and are more aggressive. The shorter the skis, the more obedient and easier they are to manage.
- Rigidity. This is a criterion that indicates the degree of flexibility of the ski. Each equipment manufacturer has different stiffness indicators. And the higher this indicator, the more aggressively the skis behave. Soft skis enter the turn more smoothly, but only if the person's weight is not too large. Rigid skis enter the turn more sharply, but their degree of stability is higher. For beginners, buying skis with a high degree of rigidity is not recommended. Such skis will go badly and constantly “throw” the athlete a little forward.
- turning radius. Often on skis you can find a numerical marking (from 10 to 20 m), which indicates the speed at which the ski turns. The smaller it is, the faster the pair of skis will turn. For beginner skiers, it is worth choosing equipment with an indicator of 14-16 meters. Teenagers take skis with a turning radius of up to 20 m. Professionals can choose the most agile pair.
- Equipment geometry. Such a characteristic as the shape of the ski is often misleading even for experienced athletes. Therefore, many beginner skiers often wonder how to choose skis in shape. Skis with a wide toe are more stable and turn easily. Products with a narrow toe make it easier to change edges. A narrow heel forgives mistakes, a wide one requires skill. The middle or waist of the ski affects flotation. For beginner skiers, it is worth choosing a waist from 68 to 75 mm, for professionals - up to 70 mm.
How to choose skis taking into account the weight and height of the athlete?
Each manufacturer of winter sports equipment has its own table of the ratio of the length of skis to the weight and height of a person. You can find out how to select skis and sticks from the universal table.
| Human height (cm) | Classic ski length (cm) | Walking ski length (cm) | Ski length for skating (cm) |
| 150 | 170-180 | 165-170 | 165 |
| 155 | 175-185 | 170-175 | 170 |
| 160 | 180-190 | 175-185 | 175 |
| 165 | 185-190 | 180-185 | 180 |
| 170 | 190-195 | 185-190 | 185 |
| 175 | 195-200 | 190-195 | 185 |
| 180 | 195-200 | 195-200 | 190 |
| 185 | 200-205 | 200-205 | 190-195 |
| 190 | 205-210 | 205-210 | 195-200 |
| 195 | 205-210 | 205-210 | 200-205 |
It is worth noting that 5 cm should be added to the length of classic skis. For skating skis, it is recommended to add 10 cm. Walking skis should be 15 cm longer than indicated in the table.
| Skier height (cm) | Classic pole length (cm) | Length of skating poles (cm) |
| 150 | 120-125 | 130-135 |
| 155 | 125-130 | 135-140 |
| 160 | 130-135 | 140-145 |
| 165 | 135-140 | 145-150 |
| 170 | 140-145 | 150-155 |
| 175 | 145-150 | 155-160 |
| 180 | 150-155 | 160-165 |
| 185 | 155-160 | 165-170 |
| 190 | 160-165 | 170-175 |
| 195 | 165 | 175 |
When choosing poles for classic skiing style skiing, it is worth considering the fact that their length should be 25 cm less than the athlete’s height, and the length of skating poles should be 20 cm less.
Children's skis are selected not only taking into account the weight and height of the baby, but also the age. The detailed parameter table is as follows:
| Age (years) | Height (cm) | Weight, kg) | Ski length (cm) |
| 3-4 | 94-102 | 14-16 | 70-90 |
| 5 | 110 | 18 | 90-100 |
| 6 | 115 | 21 | 95-105 |
| 7 | 120 | 23 | 100-110 |
| 8 | 130 | 26 | 110-120 |
| 9 | 135 | 29 | 115-125 |
| 10 | 140 | 32 | 120-130 |
| 11 | 150 | 36 | 130-140 |
| 12 | 155 | 41 | 135-145 |
| 13 | 160 | 46 | 140-150 |
| 14 | 170 | 51 | 150-160 |
However, in addition to the length of the skis, it is worth considering such an indicator as the width. For kids aged 3 to 6 years, it is recommended to buy wide skis with a round toe. They are more stable and manageable.
At school age, the child already acquires the skills of caution. Therefore, skis for schoolchildren are a little narrower - about 5-7 cm.
Teenagers buy skis taking into account the style of skiing. Therefore, if a student likes to ride faster and can handle the controls, the width of the skis may be less than 5 cm. If the teenager is not confident in his abilities, he is skiing for the first time, then the width of the skis should be up to 10 cm.
When choosing skis for extreme species Riding should take into account the following recommendations:
- Freeride skis must be 15 cm taller than a person.
- The length of skis for breaking is calculated by the formula: skier's height minus 15-20 cm.
- The formula for determining the length of skis for a ski tour is as follows: a person’s height is minus 15 cm. If a person is dense, then 10 cm is added to the height.
- The length of freestyle or universal skis: the height of the athlete minus 15 cm.
Therefore, if you still do not know how to choose skis, the data table will help you solve this problem and purchase the right equipment.
What is the best ski material?
Finding out how to choose the right skis is impossible without an overview of the materials from which they are made. All alpine skiing according to the type of material is divided into wooden and plastic.
- Wooden ones are made from birch, ash, beech, pine and elm. It is these types of wood that are suitable for the production of skis. Wooden ones are cheaper than plastic ones.
- Plastic are produced using two technologies: cap and sandwich. The first technology involves the use of a foam core and a plastic coating. Sandwich technology is based on the use of a wooden base and a plastic coating.
The choice of wooden or plastic skis is everyone's business. However, it is worth considering some nuances that will help not to make a mistake with the choice of material.
- Wooden skis deform under the influence of moisture. They cannot be used during a thaw. In severe frosts, they do not slide back like plastic ones. Wooden skis are stable, docile and suitable for both beginners and professionals.
- Plastic skis are more flexible, break less often, and are not subject to deformation. They are faster and more agile. The only drawback is that in severe frost they go back.
Recommendation for athletes who have previously ridden wooden skis Oh.If you decide to buy plastic skis, do not hurry. Rent equipment. After wooden skis, plastic ones will seem naughty. Therefore, in order not to regret the purchase later, make sure that plastic products are suitable for you.
How to choose skis for a beginner athlete? To begin with, it is worth figuring out whether you will ride on a cleared track or on snow-capped mountains. For classic descents, skis without a notch, that is, smooth, are quite suitable. However, special mixtures must be applied to them, without which the skis will not glide normally. If you want to conquer a snowy peak, then notched skis are the best. They do not need to be lubricated and are more stable in the snow. However, keep in mind that notches in warm weather can play a cruel joke. Snow will stick to them and the ski will simply stop sliding.
It is also worth paying attention to the level of rigidity. You need to lean the ski with the smooth side against the other ski and see how much it bends under the influence of force. The gap between the skis should be no more than 1 cm. If it is not possible to compress the skis, then it is better to take softer products. Beginners are not recommended to take skis high level stiffness.
TOP 10 best ski manufacturers
There are a lot of ski manufacturers. Therefore, when buying winter sports equipment, beginners and even experienced athletes are faced with the problem of choice. But if you highlight the TOP-10 best ski manufacturers, the circle of "candidates" for the purchase will be significantly reduced.
According to Snow magazine, the top ten ski manufacturers are as follows:
- Fischer;
- Rossignol;
- head;
- Atomic;
- Blizzard;
- Salomon;
- Volky;
- Elan;
- nordica.
The average cost of quality racing skis- from 200 to 400 dollars. Inexpensive domestic skis from brands like STC or Sorsu can be purchased for $50. amateur models famous brands cost between $80 and $100.
Recommendation.If you are a beginner skier, buy local products. You will be able to keep within the small budget, having received quite worthy quality. And when you gain experience and sports training, you will understand for yourself which skis of what stiffness, width and length you need to choose in the future. The only exception in this case is weight. Guessing the stiffness of Russian skis, if your weight is more than 70 kg, is quite difficult. Domestic skis are often an order of magnitude tougher than foreign ones.
What is the difference between domestic and foreign-made skis? The quality of top models of world brands for a Russian manufacturer is still unattainable. Expensive branded skis are mainly intended for high-end competitive skiers. They are manufactured at specialized factories, as a rule, in the countries where the manufacturer is located. The design of such skis is quite complex and is modeled on a computer. All developments are carefully tested by qualified athletes. Only high-quality expensive materials are used in the manufacture, often taken from the aerospace industries, where they have received high praise. That is why domestic skis cannot currently compete with foreign ones. But if you are not a professional skier, but a simple lover of winter skiing, choose domestic products - of sufficient quality, but at the same time affordable. Good luck on the ski!
Perhaps you will be interested
Recently, many people prefer outdoor activities. In winter, this is the first thing. Coming for sports equipment, most skiers are lost at the sight of the variety of models presented there. Atomic, Fischer, Volkl, Scott are the most common and famous brands that supply goods for this sport to the market. It is necessary to understand this diversity, so we will make a rating skiing.
Brands
Among the most famous brands are Atomic, Fischer, Volkl, Scott, which performed best in a wide variety of tests.
Atomic
This company began by manufacturing wooden skis in 1955. At the moment, she produces not only, but also other ski and snowboard equipment. On account of this brand Olympic gold and several world cups.
Fischer
Initially, only carts and sledges were produced. But since 1936, skis have been produced, and in 1958 the company captured the world market. 2010 brings this company more than half of all Olympic medals in Vancouver.
Volkl
It appeared in Bavaria in the twenties of the last century and now it is a monopoly in the manufacture of alpine skis in Germany. Currently, this brand produces snowboards, bindings, equipment, as well as tennis rackets. The manufacture of skis at temperatures below standard is the hallmark of this company. Perhaps that is why their products are so reliable and of high quality.
Scott
Scott was founded in 1958 by an American skier with a consonant surname. True, she did not start with the production of skis, but with the production of aluminum poles, instead of steel and bamboo. In 1971, the manufacture of boots began, and in 1998 production was launched.
Universal
This type of equipment is suitable for beginners who are taking their first steps in this sport and have not decided on the direction (calm riding, slalom or carving) and the type of tracks. These skis are suitable for everyone, regardless of preference, whether it is a quiet ride or a more aggressive one. As for the tracks, they are good on any. Many believe that versatility loses to specialization. But it's definitely not about. In addition, do not forget that sports goods are currently not cheap, so buying several pairs for a beginner is not only impractical, but also expensive.
Atomic M:10 Pulse Ti
Well suited for those who like a comfortable, relaxed ride, without high speeds on packed trails, not suitable for riders weighing more than 85 kg.
Atomic M:9 Pulses
Nimble, agile, obedient even on poor coverage, also not for heavyweights.
They will please beginners with their obedience and good handling, they show themselves very well on a bend.
They do not like short arcs and high dynamics, but they feel confident on any slopes.
Universal for experts
This event is designed for people with experience in skiing who ride in different directions (carving, slalom, etc.), but are not ready to part with a large amount of money for a wide range of sports equipment.
Atomic Metron B5
Well cut arcs of different radii and unpretentious to the snow cover.
They show themselves well in different styles of skiing, but they make strict demands on the skills of the rider, they can withstand not only light skiers, but also heavyweights.
Fischer AMC 76 RF2 V2
Designed for riders who already have some experience, they go well on fresh snow, on slopes with a different surface, handling and responsiveness are lower.
Undemanding to snow cover, do not like turns with a small radius, designed for a light weight of the rider.
Well suited for those who like big arcs and have an athletic physique. They behave better on fresh snow, they can tolerate small bumps.
For carving
Atomic SX:9 Pulses
Not suitable for dynamic driving with tight turns, not designed for heavyweights.
Stable and easy to handle with medium driving dynamics.
Well managed, will not give surprises, if you do not drive them too fast, you can lay any turns.
Scott Crossfire XT
They like dynamic driving with short arcs, they are unpretentious about the quality of snow.
Designed for small dynamics, stable in turns.
giant slalom
They showed themselves better in tests on long tracks with a large height difference, they are distinguished by stability and stability.
Fischer RC4 Worldcup RC
Predictable, have good acceleration and dynamics.
Volkl Racetiger GS Racing
Designed for people with good physical data, as they make rather stringent requirements and do not forgive mistakes.
Female models
Such models are much lighter than the rest, softer and differ in the location of the mounts.
Atomic Balanze B 7:4
Designed for riding with medium dynamics and turns with a small radius.
Atomic Balanze B 9:7
Quite demanding on skiing skills, but stable on any snow.
Good for dynamic riding, they like turns with a large and medium radius.
Designed for skiers who prefer relaxed skiing, without dynamic acceleration and sharp turns.
Skiing is Fresh air, creaking snow, mesmerizing speed, pleasure and entertainment. The loads associated with this sport help to strengthen the muscles and the immune system, and have a positive effect on the general condition of the body. So that the rest is not overshadowed by discomfort and unpleasant moments, it is important to be able to choose the necessary equipment. After all, the right equipment is the key to quality rest. But above all, when choosing equipment, the style of riding is taken into account. Skis for the classic course are usually used by beginners. Skis for skating are gaining more and more popularity today. How they differ from classic models, and how to choose equipment for yourself, you can learn from this article.
Classical and skating are the main ways of skiing used by athletes and skiing enthusiasts. "Classic" means sliding along two parallel tracks, used by beginners and skiers with experience. Skating (free) style is a new way of skiing based on movements borrowed from speed skating. aftershocks inside designs allow you to develop while running great speed. For each type of movement, a special type of ski is intended.
Equipment for skating
Skate models are designed to constantly slide, overcoming long distances by running. To do this, the sole of the structure is covered with paraffins and accelerators that improve slip.
Externally, products for skating differ from classic models in a shorter length (up to 192 cm). Such designs have less curved noses. Many models are produced with cropped toes. This allows you to reduce weight and improve the aerodynamic characteristics of the equipment.
Rigidity is one of the main properties of skating skis. This feature allows you to make pushes and develop speed on a prepared dense track. As evidenced by the work of the block. In the "classic" when sliding on both legs, it does not touch the snow surface, but bends and adjoins the track only when pushing with one foot. In products for skating, which are characterized by rigidity, the gap between the block and the snow cover is maintained even when the weight is transferred to one leg.
Important! Skating skis are used exclusively on hard surfaces. Since even a slight snow embankment can become a serious obstacle and cause a skier to fall.
Skis for classic skiing
Classical models are designed for alternating movement. For this reason, they are partially treated with an ointment that holds the block. Sliding and the best move provides a raised toe. The outfit is soft, not peculiar to it and elasticity. Thanks to these characteristics, the greatest contact of the ski platform with the snow surface is ensured. That under acceptable conditions allows you to achieve the required speed. However, due to the lower rigidity, cornering control is reduced, so it is more difficult to make them with stepping steps. The length of the structure is 205-207 cm, which helps to keep the athlete in the track.
What is the difference
The following differences between skating and classic skiing can be distinguished:
- Movement technique: for the "classics" - alternate sliding, for skating skis - constant.
- The main load in skate model distributed to the front and back of the structure. In the "classic" it falls on the middle zone (waist) of the ski.
- To improve gliding, the sole of skating skis is lubricated along the entire length with paraffin, in classic models only the toe and toe. For the treatment of the middle zone, a special ointment holding the block is used.
- Classic skis are longer than skating equipment and have a curved toe.
- Rigidity in skating is about 2 times greater than in the "classic". The first option differs in elasticity. You can verify this by pressing the ski with your hand to the floor. In the middle part of the product, a gap of up to 2 mm will remain visible.
- Skate models are used to move along a prepared compacted track, the “classic” is also allowed to move off the track.
The question of how to choose skis for skating is often puzzled by beginner skiers. However, the “skate” is a way of skating that requires a lot of energy. And you can't walk in it. To overcome the track, you need proper preparation and knowledge of the following nuances.
Material
For a long time, wooden products were popular in skiing. The situation has changed with the advent of plastic structures on the tourist goods market. Products made of high quality plastic are practical and easy to use, they are able to reach high speed. Snow sticks to them less during the thaw and they can look decent longer. Compared to plastic products, wooden products are less durable and require special care and storage. However, for beginners, this budget option is the best solution.
Subtleties of choice
When buying ski equipment for skating, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- Straight longitudinal groove. No curvature or helical bending in the longitudinal direction.
- Smooth sliding platform. Bumps, pits, cracks, corrugated plastic or wood are a sign of poor quality.
- Hardness level. When squeezing the skis folded by the sliding platform towards each other with the hands, the same stiffness should be felt. The nose parts of the products must be closed.
- Strength. Especially strong equipment is required for people with a lot of weight.
- The same location of the center of gravity (permissible displacement is not more than 1.5 cm).
What influences weight and height when choosing models for the "horse"
The selection of skis for skating is carried out by weight and height:
- By weight. On many models, the minimum and maximum weights of the skier are indicated. In the absence of such markings, you can determine the size of ski equipment in the store using a device for measuring stiffness. You can choose the option that suits the weight of the skier yourself. Having folded the skis sliding surface inside, they are squeezed by hand 3 cm from the center of balance. When performing such an action, the ideal pair will be the one in which there will be a gap of 1.5 mm.
- By growth. To do this, apply the following formula: the height of the skier + 10-15 cm. This is the maximum length of the skis for the "skate". Otherwise, it will be difficult to cope with the heels while walking. Compliance with this condition will ensure comfortable riding. The size table below will help you choose the correct length of the structure.
| Skier Height | Ski length | Stick length
Similarly, ski equipment for children is selected. For preschoolers, children's short skis are suitable, the length of which corresponds to the height of the child or exceeds it by 5 cm. Such models will make it easier for little skiers to master the walking technique. Important! You can not buy ski equipment for children for growth. Incorrect equipment will create discomfort for the child, discourage the desire for skiing and can cause injury. Ski equipment should not be too heavy. This also applies to boots and sticks. For support ankle joint experiencing a heavy load, boots are chosen relatively hard and high. To move with a skating style, the hands actively work, so the sticks need the lightest and most durable. Their height should reach the skier's earlobe. Manufacturers overviewToday on the market ski equipment many suggestions. The rating of the most popular ski manufacturers for skating includes Russian and foreign companies. Professional models are produced by Atomic, Salomon, Fischer. Inexpensive models for beginners are produced by Karjala, STC, Tisa - the best option for beginner athletes. Brands Nordway, Atomic, Tisa are the best manufacturers of models for small skiers. The main thing is to be able to choose the right equipment. And then a good mood, pleasant impressions and memories will remain from the ski trip.
|
The most important thing in choosing skiing is to assess your skill level as objectively as possible and take into account the type of track on which you decide to learn to ski or improve it. You should not get ahead of events and buy inventory, hoping for a quick mastery of all the nuances of skill. For a beginner, there is no particular need to delve into various subtleties; it is enough for him to purchase equipment for.
What brand of skis are best?
There is a rule among professional skiers: there is no such brand that would be the best, there is equipment that is right for you. Leading manufacturers annually test their products (for example, in the Alps, marking the opening and closing of each season). It is safe to say that there are no leaders among companies producing equipment for ski lovers. All products of this plan are of high quality.
It differs only in its purpose: for off-piste skiing, for jumping, for ski touring, skiing, slalom, etc. There is also the following gradation: for beginners, experienced amateurs, athletes, professionals, freeriders. There are also rules for choosing alpine skiing, depending on preferences in skiing technique. For example, for those who like short tight turns, the best would be skis 10-15 cm smaller than the wearer's height. And for those who prefer straight tracks - by 5-10 cm. For a beginner skier, the best solution would be to purchase the simplest model of any brand, among which only size and design should be the determining factors of choice.
How to choose the best skis depending on the skiing technique?
For those who prefer off-piste riding, it is recommended to pay attention to the following brands: Scott, Volkl, Dynastar, Armada, Black Crow, K2, Black Diamond. It is on such skis that all athletes ride, including winners of various championships and other prestigious competitions. These skis are usually equipped with special attachments that allow for better control and stability.
If you decide to specialize in freeride (extreme), then it is recommended to buy equipment from outstanding manufacturers: HEAD, Elan, Fischer, Atomic, Salomon. Their products are not just high quality, they are impeccable. For those who decide to devote their leisure time to freestyle, Twintip construction skis will be required. All models of this direction are distinguished by a stylish and bright design and are designed to perform various tricks.
