Essential advice for selecting and buying the right ski gear

Buying ski gear can be a hefty investment. That’s why it’s important to know in advance which ski gear is best suited to your skiing style and skill level.

The skis you select should be chosen based mainly on the type of skiing you plan on doing, and your level of skill.

Beginner skiers: should select skis that have wider cores, narrower widths, and softer flex.

• Skis made like this are easier to turn and less likely to cause a tumble if you make a mistake. If you need help turning, you may want to consider a rocker on the tip and tail ends of your skis.

Intermediate skiers: should select a ski with a stronger core (less flexibility), and generally wider than beginner skis.

• You’ll want full camber if you plan on racing, and you’ll want rocker if you prefer soft snow.

Advanced skiers: will be more discerning about their ski selection.

• In general, advanced skiers want stiffer skis, and they will want to select their camber or rocker to perfectly suit their ski goals.

There are many ski types and choices out there, but this should be a good place for you to start when shopping for skis suited to your abilities.

Boots are arguably more important to a skier than the skis themselves. The right type of boot gives you control over the skis.

Beginner skiers: should buy ski boots with soft to medium flexibility.

• They should be comfortable enough to wear all day, so that you can work on mastering your technique.

Intermediate skiers:would do best to select a boot with medium flexibility and a more precise fitting around the foot.

• Boots like these give you the ability to make a variety of runs, including mogul runs, off-train skiing, and even expert runs.

Advanced skiers: need boots that are on the stiffer side, with the most precise fit possible.

• This gives you more control in any ski conditions.

All ski boots are measured with Mondopoint standards. Mondopoint sizing is done through measuring your foot in centimetres.

Boots are typically well insulated, which means you will have very little need for a thick sock. Use a thin sock instead.

Since binding is so important for the safety of a skier, it is recommended that skiers select bindings with professional assistance.

• Talk to your nearby ski gear expert about the type of skiing you enjoy, and what type of binding would be best for you.

Ski poles should be selected based on your height.

• The best way to select a ski pole is to measure your height, then try two or three poles within a very small range of lengths.

If you are new to skiing, remember you don't have to purchase your ski equipment right away. Instead, rent equipment from the ski hill and try out different types until you find the one you like best.