S is for Shaped Ski Secrets

The next change the group learned to make was in their stance. Since the tips of these skis are so wide, you don't need to try to keep your feet and skis close together. In fact, you almost can't bring your feet too close together since the ski tips start to get in each other's way. After all the years we've spent trying to get our ankles to touch, Irene found that a wider, more balanced stance not only works better, it is much easier on your legs!

A third tip was offered by Lisa Densmore, the guest pro skier at the clinic. She skied with each group and gave this tip: use your big toe to initiate the turn. It works, according to my wife - the skis did follow the big toe into the turns.

Of course, they also practiced some things that work with all skis - flex your ankles, lean forward - weight on the balls of your feet, keep your hands up in front of you, and have fun!

So, are you ready to give the shaped skis a try? I have some advice on that, too. From our experience, I would definitely say that you should try out a few pairs before you buy them. A good way to do that is to find an on-the-snow demo at a ski area, or see if your ski area offers performance demo skis to rent.

An on-the-snow demo is really the key to choosing a new ski. You'll be able to compare different ski lengths and ski types on the same day in the same conditions. I would also suggest taking a lesson, as there are some fine points in technique that will make it easier to adjust to the new skis.

If you can't demo skis on the mountain, you should find a ski shop that is very knowledgeable in matching skis and skiers, especially if this is your first pair of shaped skis. The ski shop rep should be asking you many questions about the kind of skier you are, and he should suggest skis based both on how you ski and how the skis perform. It is also worth checking if a performance guarantee is offered. If you do buy a pair of skis and find that they aren't for you, how willing will the shop be to work with you to find a pair you do like?

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