Ski demo--kind of dumb question

[NewEnglandSkier]

So, this year I plan to purchase my first pair of skis. One question I have is when one goes to either a demo day or to a demo shop at the mountain-- do they adjust the bindings for you like when renting or do they just hand over the skis and expect you set set your own DIN and length settings?? Hopefully this is not case, as I know nothing about such things. I'd assume they would do it for you, but just wondered . . . .
Also- these are the skis on my list so far to try-- any other recommedations? (5'4", 110lbs---low intermediate skier, not a big fan of skiing at high speed). K2 True Luv, K2 One Luv, Fischer Vision Inspire, Head Cool Thang, Dynastar Exclusive, Nordica Olypmpia Fox XBS.
Thanks!

 

[Pequenita]

There usually are forms to fill out with your weight/height andtype of skier (like when you're renting) and a technician should be there to make the adjustments to fit your boot length and the DIN setting. And if there isn't, I wouldn't ski it.

The lawyers of America and fear of liability have taken over every aspect of the ski industry....alas!

 

[Jilly]

Yes there will be forms and some sort of ID to ensure that you will bring the skis back (if on hill demo). You've got a good list going, if you don't like anything ask for more choices.

 

[abc]

As far as DIN setting, it's just like renting ski.

Unlike renting ski, the shop WILL (usually) ASK you what length you prefer, instead of giving you the "default" beginer length!

But if you don't know, just say you don't know...and let them pick one for you.

(unless you're talking about boot sole length, in which case they'll adjust it for you)

You got your own boot, I'm assuming...

 

[NewEnglandSkier]

Great, thanks. I kind of figured they would do the adjustments, but I wasn't sure. I had read about one demo day last year-- I think it was on a different board-- but it sounded so crazy and disorganized with people just doing their own thing. Glad to know that is not the norm.

 

[Jilly]

Remember to take a small notebook and a pencil (pens can freeze) to record which skis you like and length too. Most of all have fun doing demo's.

 

[MaineSkiLady]

The bindings that are mounted to demo/test skis can be adjusted to a wide range of boot sole lengths - these aren't generally the kind you'd buy to put on your ski (unless you happened upon a good demo deal). Demo days tend to be a bit hectic, depending on what resort you visit. (I plan to do one on 12/8 and will be there at 8 a.m. sharp). You have a fairly long list of skis, and I'm not sure if you'll be giving them a fair review if you try to demo them all. I've never gotten past 3, myself. Regardless of how many, be sure to do all kinds of turns: long, medium and short radius. Since you're in New England (as am I), get onto the slickest, iciest run you can to see if the ski will hold a solid edge - this is pretty paramount in our part of the world. Good luck, I hope you find what you're looking for

 

[Jilly]

If you're at a "on hill" demo, be tough and forcefull. Don't let the big guys get all the fun. Be a tiger and get into the tent and make yourself known!

 

[sskier]

As a ski tech.
Be sure not to lie about your ability nor your weight, height and age.
You DIN setting is the combination of the lenght of your boots along with your height, weight , age and skier type.
I wouldn't do more that a couple at a time and keep notes.
More important Have Fun.

 

[ab07]

just be honest

A demo day or a shop demo would both treat you good. The pros will set the skis up for your boots & din setting, bad news is you'll have to share your weight. Just tell them where you're looking to spend your time on the mountain, what kind of a skier you are, and they should be able to suggest a few pairs of skis that will fit with your ski style. Buy whatever you have the most fun on.