Skiing Right With Downhill Ski Equipment

Like most sports, skiing is impossible without the right equipment. Like hockey players need ice skates, skiers need skis in order to tame the slopes. The sport is literally impossible without the right tools. However, novice skiers may be intimidated by the staggering amount of equipment, and the staggering amount of choices, available for rent and purchase.

However, the first step is simple: a skier must first decide which style of skiing appears the most appealing. Ski equipment is unique, on many levels, to certain skiing events, and for downhill skiing, downhill ski equipment is essential. There are many necessary components to any downhill ski equipment package, but also many optional selections. But with a little research, any skier can select the equipment that best fulfills his or her desires.

Snow Drifts and Choices

Ski equipment pieces, like any sporting goods, are tailored to certain needs. Downhill ski equipment is built for speed, but also control. This delicate balance is important for any downhill skier to keep in mind, especially if he or she wishes to learn in a certain direction. When shopping for downhill ski equipment, a pair of skis should always be the first purchase, as much of what follows must be chosen to fit the skis.

Aside from speed and control, downhill skis are also engineered for specific snow conditions; some are wider to slide on top of powdery snow, while others are narrow with sharp, cut edges designed to slice through hard, packed snow. In many ways, downhill ski equipment choices depend largely on the location of the ski resorts skiers intend to visit, as snow conditions differ across the country according to temperature and elevation. A good pair of ski poles should accompany any pair of skis, for balance, control and all-around performance.

Ski boots are of equal importance to skis. All downhill ski equipment should be purchased in the correct size, but boots especially need to fit comfortably and safely. There are many styles, colors and companies available, along with accessories such as extra padding. Bindings are also important, as they attach the boots to the skis.

Bindings are an overlooked component of any downhill ski equipment package; sadly, many skiers do not take the time to have their bindings properly adjusted by a technician according to their height and weight. Bindings play an important role in safety, as they are designed to break away from the skis when a skier falls, preventing serious injury. However, if improper bindings are purchased, a skier may be unable to separate from his or her skis, a situation that can lead to twisted tendons and broken bones.

Downhill ski equipment includes a large amount of clothing. Jackets and waterproof pants, thick socks and gloves help protect a skier from the elements, while goggles and helmets are safety accessories no skier should gamble without. Goggles protect the eyes both from sunlight and reflections, as well as from snow and other debris that can fly around during a downhill session. Helmets prevent serious injuries and even death, especially when downhill ski speeds reach the upper tiers. From convenience to performance, safety to comfort, downhill ski equipment is worth both the money and the effort.