twin tips?

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
I am an intermediate to advanced skier that skis on a mountain that is usually icy in some parts and powdery in the outback. I ski anything from the bunny hill to the double black diamond runs comfortably and also spend some time in the park. I am buying a pair of skis for this season and the next bunch to come and I was thinking of going to twin tips. I am 5'11 and 150lbs and still growing and I'm wondering if twin tips are a good idea and what pair should I buy?

ANSWER: Dear Johnston --

It sounds like you are an accomplished skier on all terrain, and would probably enjoy the added freedom that twin tip skis would give you.  Since you enjoy off-piste skiing, I would stick with the fatter versions of the twin tips rather than the skinny versions used for tricks, and ski ballet.

Since you spend time in the park, I recommend going with the shorter end of the range recommended for your weight.  The shorter ski will allow you to continue doing the park tricks with ease.

Since I do not know your current preference in skis, I hesitate to make a particular brand and model recommendation.  If you would write back with the types of skis that you usually enjoy skiing, and why you like them, then I can make a better recommendation for you.

Think snow!  :-)



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Well actually even though I've skis many times before this will be the first pair of skis I've bought so I'm not entirely sure what brands I skied before.

Answer
Dear Johnston-  

My order of preference for twin tip skis you can also ski off-piste are:

Volkl Wall Twin Tip Skis

Dynastar Trouble Maker Twin Tip Skis

Dynastar Nothing but Trouble

Although I do not like K2 skis, both these skis have a good reputation with K2 fans.  The Obsethed ski is extremely expensive compared to the others in this category.

K2 PE Twin Tip Skis or

K2 Obsethed Twin Tip Skis '09 (expensive!)

Rossignol has a very nice pair of twin tip skis, but they are rather skinny, and I do not believe they will "float" enough for you to be happy with them off-piste.

Feel free to write back if you have additional questions.  Good luck to you in getting a great pair of new skis!