Salomon Thinsulate Snowsports

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

Types of snowboards

• All-mountain: Best for riding anywhere on the mountain
• Freestyle: Best for playful riding in or out of the terrain park
• Freeride: Best for steep, ungroomed snow
• Powder: Best for maximum float in deep snow
• Splitboards: Best for backcountry touring and travel uphill

Find the right length

• Stand a board on its tail; the nose of the board should reach between your nose and chin
• Use brand size charts to get a more precise fit

Snowboard profile

• Camber: Rises in the middle for good grip on hard snow, control at high speeds; popular with experienced riders
• Rocker: Upturned tips and tails excels for powder, park tricks and easy turns; popular with beginners and park riders
• Camber/rocker: Balances the edge hold of camber with easy turns and float of rocker