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Best alpine and freeride ski equipment
Discover an expert selection of alpine and freeride ski equipment at the best prices, including skis, ski boots, poles, ski clothing and accessories. Expert advice and ski buying guides
All our product categories for Downhill skiing :
Brands Downhill skiing :
Advanced alpine skiing requires specific equipment that matches the demands and conditions of the mountain. Choosing the right skis is not just a question of personal preference, but also of performance, safety and comfort. In this guide, we'll explore the essential aspects to consider when buying alpine skis for intermediate to advanced skiers. Find out more about our best alpine skis and other ski equipment.
Understanding alpine ski types
Before diving into the specifics of skis, it's crucial to understand the different types available on the market and their suitability for different styles and locations.
Downhill skis
Piste skis are designed for use on well-groomed terrain. They are generally narrower to allow tight turns and great responsiveness. For advanced skiers, choosing a piste ski means looking for a model with good rigidity and robust construction for better power transmission and greater precision in turns.
All-terrain skis
All-terrain skis, also known as all-mountain skis, are versatile and designed to perform in a variety of conditions, from groomed slopes to light powder. They are wider than traditional skis, offering better lift off-piste while still performing well on it. For those who like to vary their mountain experiences, these models are an excellent choice.
Technical features to consider
Length and width
The length of your skis should be based not only on your height, but also on your weight and level of experience on the snow. Advanced skiers can opt for skis that are slightly longer than their height, for greater stability on fast descents. In terms of thickness, a wider ski generally offers better lift in powder, while a narrower model is ideal for fast, precise turns on piste.
Core and materials
A ski's core has a major influence on its responsiveness and the way it feels underfoot during your runs. Wooden cores often offer a good balance between the suppleness needed for comfort during everyday use, and the rigidity required by some experienced skiers who want to maximize their performance, thanks in particular to the materials such as titanium or carbon fiber incorporated in some modern constructions.
Additional equipment details
Bindings adapted to the type of use
For optimum safety on the slopes, you also need to pay attention to the bindings you use: they must be perfectly matched both to the type of binding you choose and to your own body weight! Sturdy models with a good adjustment range are essential, especially if you're a high-intensity skier, as this has a direct impact on the overall performance you feel during each outing!
Regular maintenance essential
Regular maintenance is key to maintaining optimum performance; this includes frequent waxing, edge sharpening, repairing damaged soles... Investing the necessary time, or even calling in a professional service, is a wise move to ensure the longevity of your equipment!
Choosing the right equipment requires a clear understanding of the specific needs of each user profile (experienced skier). Before finalizing your purchase, take into account your usual skiing styles, local mountain conditions and the technical characteristics of the products you're considering. The right equipment will enable you to enjoy your mountain adventures to the full, while pushing back your personal limits and ensuring your safety! Feel free to explore our adjacent categories such as Snowboarding, Cross-Country Skiing and Ski Clothing.
All our purchasing guides Downhill skiing :
Our bestsellers Downhill skiing :
Read our tips and advice on Downhill skiing :
Which expert selects the products in this category? :
Nico, product expert for ski touring, snowboarding and camping at alpinstore
"Passionate about the ocean and the mountains and a great travel enthusiast, I particularly enjoy surfing, trail riding, biking and snowboarding in winter."
