ski racing

Question
I have a son who is on the JV ski team (he is a freshman) for his high school.  He is a good skier who can ski all terrain, including glades, but has never formally raced until now.  We don't want to invest in 2 pairs of skis (one GS and one slalom) as of yet.  In your opinion, which way should we go?  HE is skiing in both types of races.  Thanks

Answer
Dear Inge --

I usually recommend getting a pair of good juvenile slalom racing skis, and using them for both GS and slalom.  I recommend this because it is usually more difficult for young racers to get a quick turn on a GS ski during the slalom race, than it is for them to hold a slalom ski on a good edge during the longer carved GS turn.

However, if your son has very quick feet, and a more difficult time holding an edge during a GS turn, then you could get him a slightly shorter GS ski to use in both races.  

All of the top brands have good juvenile race skis.  My favorite brands are Fischer, Volkl, Dynastar, and Solomon, but other brands are equally suitable depending on racing style.

If you can describe your son's racing or skiing style, I can try to make specific brand and model recommendations.

Please write back with any additional information, so we can discuss your options in more detail.