What type of race ski should i buy?

Question

I am just a beginner to racing but i'm an agressive skiier. I compete in GS and Slalom. I am looking for skis for both or different skis for each. I currently race on Atomic GS 9 for both GS and slalom. I'm 5' 6" so i would also like to know what length to buy. I would also know what brand of boots are recommended.

Answer 1

Ed..unless you are ready to yearly purchase 4 pairs of skis(sl/gs/practice/play skis) just settle on a good sl ski like the volkl racestock sl which is stiff enough to handle double duty-sl&gs and don't be too concerned about fis standards until you reach college level

I teach racing to kids and trust me that equipment makes NO difference at that level. with jr racers time is made on skill not equipment....find the equipment you are comfortable using and practice!

Answer 2

well it depends what kind of race you are planig to do. in my opinion get nordicas ot heads

Answer 3

I race on fisher world cups.  They are good skis, but i would also reccomend the volkl racetigers.  150cm slalom and 165cm GS skis would probably be right for you.  

As for boots get either atomic or lange.  they both make very nice race boots.  get them fit by a professional boot tech, it is very important that your boots are the right size for you.

Answer 4

Boots first and foremost should fit your foot. The best boot for one foot will not fit everyone else. Work with your coach or local ski shop, footbeds, boot canting, ramp angle, then how much forward lean you should have your style.  The stiffness of the boot should vary with your weight.

  If you are still growing, buy a boot that is the proper shell size for your foot. When your skill improves to national level, you may want a tighter fit, so the same shell may work well for you.

Top level racers in their late teens through their 30's are in a small shell size for the precise fit they need.  Until you approach that level, go for the more comfortable proper size and develop your precise skills.

  If your feet hurt, you will spend less time on the hill practicing, and delay your skill improvement.

  As to the proper ski length, the current FIS rules give the minimum lengths allowed for each event in your age and s*x group. Typical women's' slalom is 155 cm, GS  160cm. Men's size is +5 cm for each.  Check the FIS rules page for the  allowable sizes and turn radius.

Answer 5

For better peformance, you want different skis for GS and SL. I am sure you know you need to demo and demo and demo before you settle on the skis. But I will tell you what works with me...

For GS race, I love Volkl Racetiger GS World Cup. But, believe it or not, I go slightly faster with my older Volkl P40 RC Racing with riser plate. The riser plate makes it stiffer and more stable at higher speed.

I used to own Atomic GS:11 but it was too soft for my standard. I do better with Volkl's.

For SL race, I am happy with Nordica Dobermann SLR World Cup.

For boots, you want the most accurate and responsive pair for your personal leg/foot movements. What's best for Picabo Street may not be the best for you. Close your eyes on the brand. Demo several pairs on race course. I think that's the only way to pick the best race boots for you.

On ski length, your weight is a major factor. You have not told us that yet. :)