Red Downhill Skis
25 products
3 tips before buying downhill skis
If you're a beginner, we recommend choosing a comfortable ski with good grip to make turning easier. A slightly narrower and softer ski is also easier to manoeuvre. Check out this guide for basic skiing tips.
A common mistake for intermediate skiers is buying skis below their abilities instead of slightly above. This can hinder skill development. To handle higher speeds, choose harder skis with higher torsional rigidity for better sideways turning.
For advanced skiers, speed is key. Ski should feel safe and stable when skiing at high speeds, no matter where you're skiing. Go for high torsional rigidity. Choosing a soft or hard ski is more a matter of taste and depends on the type of skiing you're going to do. But, it's worth investing a bit more for high-quality skis.
To ski your best, you should get skis of the right length. As a general rule, pick skis about 10 centimetres shorter than your height. But don't forget to factor in your skill level and body strength. If you're heavier or more experienced, go for longer and harder skis.
Here are the most common ones:
All mountain – an all-rounder ski that works for piste skiing and powder snow, and suits intermediate and advanced skiers. Because it's slightly wider, it doesn't cut too deep, making it perfect for springtime slush too. If you want just one pair of skis, this is the way to go.
Piste – ideal for those who love skiing on piste. These skis have a narrower waist, which gives a good grip on hard and icy surfaces, as well as freshly groomed slopes. There's a piste model for everyone. If you're an experienced skier, go for a more torsionally rigid one.
Freeride – the ultimate powder run ski. Most models work pretty well on piste, but they can feel a bit clumsy and require more strength. Usually not for beginners.
Park – for those who spend most of their time in the park. These skis always have twin tips, meaning both ends are bent up so you can ski both ways. They're usually equally wide at the back and front and have the centre of gravity shifted forward, making tricks easier. They're often more resilient and sometimes have a reinforced steel edge.
Touring ski – lighter skis, make uphill trips more enjoyable. This also means less stability on the way down. Not recommended for beginners.