9 y/o skier

Question
Hey,
My nine y/o girl has been skiing for sport for about 5 yrs. now.  We live in the NE US and ski mostly Vt. but some NY.  She is an above avg skier for her age. I beleive she is ready for her own skis.  She skis groomers bumps and steeps, but would like to try some freestyle this year.
Can you recommend a Head Ski and Bindings for her. (I have a friend that works for HEAD Co.

Thank You

Answer
hi and thanks for the question.

Sorry i am unable to give specific ski advice as i haven't
kept up-to-date with equipment since going to University.

Ask your friend or go to a local store and ask them for some information and then use that to determine your choice.

If going into freestly - im assuming you mean bumps, you will need to look for a ski that is softer and short radius. However if your daughter is also keen to ski long fast turns you will either need to get another ski or go less soft in flex.  A softer ski at faster speeds can get a shake [maybe better known as the 'death wobble'].

Bindings - make sure it has at least 3 way release to decrease risk of injury to lower leg in a fall. It also need to have the appropriate DIN numbers so that it is set more in the middle than in the upper/lower range.

More important are the boots when getting into freestyle as you need one that will react with movement and will hold the foot securely to decrease movement in the boot.  Movement in the boot can also increase risk of injury from twisiting when falling.

Hope you are able to find some good information. And again sorry i cannot be more specific

lisa