Ski Reviews and How to Use Them
Ski reviews can be useful in finding the right ski, but we urge they not be the only consideration before buying . . . more
The "30-Second Ski Reviews" presented here are distillations of our respected 12-Point Ski Reviews from the subscription site, which has expanded ski reviews of hundreds of new and continued skis and more than 1300 past models dating back to 99/00.
"30-Second" Ski Reviews: 2008/09
How we test and review skis
First, we accept no ski company advertising; realskiers is supported entirely by subscription, much like Consumer Reports®.
Test skiers include a large number of shop employees—we don't rely exclusively on ex-racers, elite instructors and the like (most of whom endorse some brand).
Because we use skiers who ski an average number of days (20+/-), our crew provides a "snap shot" of the universe of recreational skiers and the reports are, in effect, peer reviews. We ask these skiers what they like.
We do use elite skiers to study performance characteristics, but pro level skiers use technique honed to a level of precision difficult to maintain by anyone who doesn't professionally 100+ days per season. We don't ask these skiers what they like; we ask how the ski performs in a number of key performance criteria.
Results are collected from across the entire country between January and April. Our tests reflect varied terrain and snow conditions. Still—we emphasize—while we attempt to test each ski in every condition, it's impossible to replicate hundreds of combinations of tune, surface condition, available lengths and so on.
In the end, the test that really counts is your own.
Ability levels
Determine your skiing ability level on a 10-point scale.
Do better at early sales
You can find great deals at sales but it's also easy to go awry. Here are thoughts on how . . . more
What about bindings?
Stuck
Too many skiers find themselves permanently stuck in the "back seat," with little idea why. Of course boots, technique . . . more
Accessories we use and recommend
The HOT GEAR BAG is an insulated boot bag with an electric heating pad that runs on household current, warming and drying your boots overnight. In the morning, plug the 12 volt accessory cord into your car, and the HOT GEAR BAG keeps . . . more
These "30-second ski reviews" will help you choose skis for demo. For comprehensive 12-Point Reviews and specs on all new skis and on thousands of older skis and more,
we invite you
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