K2 Mindbender

What type of skiing will you be doing?

• Downhill skiing: Helps balance and time turns; most are fixed length
• Backcountry skiing: Adjustable poles let you lengthen for uphill travel, shorten for descents
• Cross-country skiing: Longer and lighter, designed to help you glide forward efficiently. Poles for skate skiing are longer than for classic skiing.

Sizing downhill poles:

• Stand in your ski boots on a level floor
• Grip the poles just below the basket
• Your elbow should form a 90° angle
• If the angle is less than 90°, try a shorter pole
• If the angle is greater, get a longer pole.

Basket type:

• Standard: for most conditions
• Powder: for deep snow
• Powder and standard: Interchangeable baskets

Where do you plan to ski?

Match your skis to the conditions and areas on the mountain you enjoy skiing. Your choices are all-mountain skis, powder skis, freestyle skis and backcountry skis.

Consider the waist width of your ski:

• If you ski groomers or are a beginner, consider a narrower ski—under 90mm wide.
• If you ski the whole mountain and prize versatility, look for an all-mountain ski, from 91-114mm wide.
• For deep or soft powder purists, opt for a ski that’s 115mm or more wide.

Find your preferred ski length

• As a general rule, your skis should reach between your chin and the top of your head.

• Length also depends on your height, weight, ability level, skiing style and terrain preferences.

Understand boot flex

• Soft flex: Comfortable; ideal for beginners or recreational riders
• Medium flex: Balances all-mountain performance and comfort
• Stiff flex: Maximum support for edge power and control at high speeds

Match riding style to flex

• All-mountain: Soft to medium for most riders; stiffer boots for racers
• Freeride: Stiffer for edge power and control at high speeds
• Freestyle: Softer for quick response and maneuverability in park terrain

Boot lacing system

• Dial lace: Uses one or two dials attached to cable for precise fit, higher cost
• Hybrid lace: Combines a dial system and traditional laces
• Traditional lace: Tried-and-true and easy to replace but can loosen during rides
• Quick pull: A single-pull lacing system that's fast and allows zonal tightening

Find a good fit

• Boots should feel snug and secure without cramping your feet
• It's OK for toes to barely graze the boot's toecap
• A snug heel fit is also key