Buying guide2026/27
How to choose your next skis
Start with where and how you ski, then compare the models that suit those priorities. Use this guide to build a shortlist, then explore the model details.
Type of terrain
First of all: what type of skiing will you be doing? Different skis suit different terrain.
Piste skis
For carving turns on groomed slopes.
Piste skis prioritize groomed runs. A relatively narrow waist can make edge changes easier, while sidecut, camber and construction influence how the ski enters and holds a turn. Choose a more forgiving or more demanding model to match your technique and pace.
All-mountain skis
For skiers who split their time between groomed runs and ungroomed resort terrain.
All-mountain skis balance several uses, with different models leaning toward carving or softer snow. Think about the conditions you ski most often: a ski that favors firm-snow precision will make different compromises from one designed around flotation.
Freeride skis
For skiers who spend most of their time off the groomed terrain, in powder, trees or the backcountry.
Freeride skis prioritize ungroomed snow. Wider shapes and rocker can help with flotation and turn release, but construction varies from light and easy to pivot to substantial and demanding. Width alone does not tell you how a ski handles firm snow or chopped powder.
The first thing to do in your pursuit of your perfect skis is to figure out where on the mountain you will spend most of your time. Groomers? Go with piste skis. Constantly chasing powder? Freeride skis. The key is to be honest with yourself. If you spend the vast majority of your time on the piste but want to try powder skiing a day or two in a season, consider buying a pair of piste skis and renting a pair of freeride skis for those couple of days.
Length of the skis
Height is a starting point for length selection. Weight, ability, preferred speed, terrain and the ski’s rocker and construction also matter.
Shorter lengths often feel easier to turn; longer lengths can offer more support and stability. A heavily rockered ski can feel different from a cambered piste ski of the same measured length.
Compare the manufacturer’s sizing advice and specifications for the actual length you are considering. Radius, sidecut and weight can change between sizes. When possible, demo a shortlist or discuss it with a specialist.
Using the catalogue
The catalogue includes current-season models alongside older skis. Check each model’s season, available lengths and specifications when comparing options.
Ski finder
Get a personalized shortlist.
Answer a few questions about your skiing to explore a shortlist of models.