Help a new kid out?

[skihoo]

Hey all,

I just recently skied for the first time on a ski trip in December. I borrowed a friend's Head RE straight skis 160s (no idea how old they are), not having a clue that shaped skis existed (I'm so, so new at this). Luckily, despite the difficulty and the crappy conditions, I loved it but want to find some skis that will help me develop. I've looked online a lot, but being new so much of what I find lacks meaning.

From what I can tell, here's what I should probably mention in order to get some help: I'm 22, 5'11", 205 lbs (yes, I'm a big kid). I'd be mostly skiing at Snowshoe, WV. Even though I've only just started, I have a great attitude about it and want to push myself to improve. So I think an entry level only ski might be too easy for what I want.

Any help would be greatly appreciated! Even just breaking down what I should look for into layman's terms instead of specific brand/model recommendations.

 

[volklgirl]

First and most importantly:

GET YOUR OWN PROPERLY FITTED BOOTS!!​

Read the articles in the Gearipedia section so you're an informed consumer before you go and don't rush this step. Boots are your body's link to your skis and the outside world.....without properly fitted boots you'll be struggling.

Get some lessons!

You'll progress quickly, so I recommend just renting or demoing skis at this point. If you find one that just makes your heart sing, buy it. If not, keep renting/demoing until you do. When demoing, skip the "beginners" skis - most of the intermediate skis will be tractable enough for you to handle. Ask your instructor and/or boot fitter for ski suggestions as well.

WELCOME! and Good Luck!

 

[jaydog]

Check and see what your mountain offers in terms of rentals- they may have an introductory package that includes discounts on rentals when packaged with lessons.

And I second VG on waiting to buy skis. You never know how quickly you'll advance, ability-wise, or what your preferred ski style is, until you've had a few lessons and some extended time on the hill. You want something you can grow into, not something you'll quickly grow out of. And definitely invest in boots before you invest in skis.