How to Choose the Best Downhill Skis
Shop Downhill Skis For Sale in St. Paul, MN
When shopping for downhill skis, there are many important factors to consider. To help you find the perfect skis, our alpine experts always start by asking you one simple question:
Where Will You Be Skiing?
If you’re skiing locally, like in Minnesota or around the Midwest, the smaller hills and shorter runs usually come with wetter or icier conditions. For these types of slopes, we recommend skis with a narrower base and a shorter turn radius (about 13-16 mm) for those quick, sharp turns that help you navigate tighter spaces and slick spots.
If you’re headed out West, where the mountains are bigger, the runs are longer, and there’s more fresh powder, you’ll want something different. For these conditions, wider skis with a longer turn radius (17-20 mm) are ideal. They give you more speed and better float through deep snow.
What’s Your Budget?
We understand that talking money, especially right out of the gate, can be a bit uncomfortable for both parties. But we know better than most that ski gear can be rather expensive, so it’s better to know upfront what you’re comfortable spending so we don’t recommend anything outside your price range.
At Joe’s Sporting Goods, we carry a wide range of alpine skis to fit any budget. Men’s, women’s, and unisex downhill skis typically range from $400 to $1,400, while youth skis start around $200 and go up to $400 on the high end. So whether you’re looking for high-end performance or great value, we’ve got you covered!
What Size of Downhill Skis Do I Need?
The best way to figure this out is by measuring from the ground to somewhere between your chin and nose in centimeters. This measurement usually falls between 160 and 165 cm for most adult skiers, but your ideal ski length will depend on your weight, skiing style, and experience.
If you’re not sure what length of downhill skis you need, our team at Joe’s can help you find the right size so you can carve the slopes comfortably and confidently. Stop into our St. Paul store or give us a call today!
Should I Buy Larger Skis for My Kids to Grow Into?
Speaking of kids, one of the biggest questions parents ask us is whether they should buy skis a size or two up so their kids can grow into them. The answer is NO. But before you can ask, no, we’re not just saying that to get more money. It’s better for your kids to use skis that fit them properly now, even if it means they’ll need a new pair in a year or two. Oversized skis are much harder for kids to control because they don’t have the weight or muscle mass to handle them, which can make it more difficult for them to learn the skills they need to progress in the sport.
If you’re worried about the cost of equipment, we do offer a Jr Ski Lease Program at our St. Paul location for kids in the Twin Cities area. For just $200 per year, we’ll equip your child with skis, boots, and bindings with an expert fit. This program will save you time and money, especially if you have kids aged 3-13, since most will outgrow their gear after 1-2 seasons.
What Alpine Ski Features Should I Look For?
When shopping for downhill skis, there are a few other features to keep in mind. These include:
- Softer vs. More Rigid Skis: Softer skis (around 75-80 mm underfoot) are more forgiving and better for beginners, while more rigid skis are for advanced skiers who want more control and precision.
- Cap vs. Sidewall Construction: If you’re skiing in icier conditions, skis with sidewall construction will give you better edge grip and control.
- Squared Sides vs. Rounded: Rounded skis are easier to maneuver, while squared skis provide better stability at high speeds.
- Twin Tip Skis: If you’re interested in skiing backward or grinding rails in the snowboard park, twin tip skis are for you. These are especially popular among younger skiers looking for versatility and style.
If you have any more questions about what size or length of downhill skis you need, stop by Joe’s Sporting Goods in St. Paul, or contact us online—we’re always here to help!