For many Estonians, winter is definitely associated with snowy winters, and this, in turn, with the national hobby of Estonians, i.e., of course, skiing. Almost all Estonians probably have some experience and contact with skiing, but the level can be very different. When the snow comes, you’d like to go skiing again, but how do you choose the kind of ski equipment that matches your level? That’s what we’re trying to help with. Let’s look at how to find the right gear to get the most out of your experience and skills.
Go skiing! Where to start?
Every sports experience starts with equipment. What equipment is needed for skiing and how to choose it? First, of course, you have to ask how often you ski, what is your level and budget, and make your choices accordingly. Of course, the basic ski equipment includes skis, ski boots, bindings, ski poles, as well as various lubricants, clothes and accessories. We will first deal with fixed assets and discuss what and why and how to choose.
Skis – how to choose?
Every skiing has a beginning and an end skis. But how do you choose a ski for yourself? The first thing to consider is what your level is. Whether you are a beginner, a hobby rider or an advanced and experienced skier. If you’re just starting out, it’s wise to choose skis that are easier to control and softer because they provide you with more stability. If you are a more experienced recreational skier, you might want to choose stiffer skis because they are easier to maneuver and stiffer skis offer more control on different slopes. Advanced skiers mostly prefer and need stiffness, and therefore stiffer skis are suitable for a fast and technically advanced riding style. It is also worth taking into account what driving style you usually practice and choosing skis according to whether you practice more skating style, freestyle or maybe you want to do tricks instead, in which case freestyle skis are suitable. Also, as a beginner skier, you can choose, for example, cross-country skis for riding on groomed trails, and as a more advanced skier, for example, cross-country skis, because you will probably ski more. If you ride on soft snow, prefer wider skis, but on icy surfaces, narrower skis are better because they provide better grip. These are some key points to keep in mind.
Skis are there, but ski bindings?
Ski bindings may seem like a fairly straightforward accessory, but in fact there are also several nuances to consider when choosing them. For example, skiing style. If you prefer classic skiing, you also need flexible bindings so that movement and gliding are as natural and efficient as possible. The skating style, on the other hand, loves stiffer bindings because they are more stable and you can move laterally more easily. If you’re riding on trails or in the mountains, a more comfortable all-purpose binding that fits the terrain and is flexible is a good choice. Be sure to make sure the bindings you buy match the boots. Today, many ties have universal mounts, but it’s always worth checking. When it comes to skills, more flexible and softer bindings are more suitable for beginners because they allow easier movement and learning the technique. Stiffer bindings are already suitable for intermediate level skiers, and for advanced bindings, stiffer bindings should be preferred because they control their movements more precisely and ride more technically.
Part Three – Which Ski Poles to Choose?
Almost done. Now the basic equipment is still missing ski poles. Let’s start with length, for example. If you practice the classic style, the ski poles should reach about your armpits, i.e. the poles should be about 15% shorter than your height. However, if you practice figure skating, the ski poles could reach up to your shoulders, because you can move laterally better, push yourself forward more powerfully. A bit of skill. As a beginner, lighter and more durable ski poles, such as aluminum, are a good idea. However, for advanced players, we recommend stiffer and lighter sticks, with which the control is more precise. It is also recommended for beginners to choose easily adjustable straps and comfortable handles, and for advanced users to choose ergonomic straps and handles for better grip and stability.
Other accessories
Before you go skiing, make sure you have other equipment – suitable ski boots, a warm but breathable jacket, enough fluids, a good hat and gloves, and anything else you may need for skiing. It is important that you feel good and safe throughout the process. Winter joys are waiting to be enjoyed in any case, choose the trails and equipment that suit your skills and abilities and enjoy the ride.
Source: online.le.ee
