Find the best ski equipment for you

If you're an avid skier, you're probably aware of how important good ski equipment is - but also how difficult it can be to find just the right equipment. Here we share our top tips when it comes to ski equipment.

What do you need?

If it's your first time skiing, it's a good idea to rent all your equipment. Ski equipment is expensive and if you're just trying it out, it's an unnecessary expense. Boots, skis, poles and helmets are all available for hire at the ski resort. Even for children who are still growing, equipment hire is preferable as otherwise they will quickly outgrow the gear.

Skis

Skiing can feel like a jungle - there are endless varieties to choose from. The easiest way to choose is to try them out. Most ski shops at Swedish ski resorts offer ski tests where you can simply try the ski for a few runs to feel how it actually feels on the slopes. Read up a little beforehand or let one of the professionals at the ski shop guide you.

Here's a simple guide to the different ski models you can choose from!

When buying or renting skis for downhill skiing, the rule of thumb for adults is that the skis should reach approximately up to the skier's nose, depending on the type of ski and the skier's experience. When buying or renting skis for children, you should buy slightly shorter skis. The skis should then reach approximately to the child's chin.

Ski boots

If it's your first time trying on a pair of ski boots, you may feel unfamiliar and uncomfortable. The mistake many people make is to choose boots that are too big - a mistake that can have devastating consequences. If the boot does not fit tightly around the foot, the foot can slide around in the boot, which often leads to blisters and blue nails. If the boot is too loose around the foot, in the worst case it can also be sprained before the binding has had time to release in a crash. It's best to try on several different boots before choosing - ill-fitting boots often lead to pain and cramping, which can ruin the whole skiing experience.

Helmet

A helmet is just as important as any other ski equipment - for children and adults alike. It is the cheapest and best life insurance you can find! The helmet should sit well on the head, but most models can be adjusted slightly in size using extra padding or straps. If you don't want to buy your own helmet, you can always rent one! The most important thing about a ski helmet, as with other helmets, is that it is intact and has not been damaged in any way, for example by being dropped on the ground.

Staves

The main purpose of the poles is to help the skier around the turn, but they can of course also be used for staking and support. For children and beginners, the poles are usually just a distraction and can therefore be skipped. Focus on skiing first and add the poles when you feel ready. The length of the poles varies depending on the skier, but generally the arm should be at about a 90-degree angle when holding the pole.

snowboard

One advantage of snowboarding over skiing is the comfortable boots that come with boarding - but even these should fit snugly around your foot. To properly edge the board in the turns, both boots and bindings need to fit properly, otherwise you risk losing contact with the snowboard. The angle of the bindings can vary depending on the rider's preference. Most people have their left foot forward, slightly angled forwards in the direction of travel - known as 'regular', while others prefer their right foot forward - known as 'goofy'. Those riders who like to ride both ways tend to have both feet angled slightly outwards. Try it out to see what suits you best!

Cross-country skiing

Cross-country skis are both longer and narrower than alpine downhill skis and are designed for cross-country skiing. The wax is particularly important for cross-country skiers - you want good glide on downhill slopes and good grip on uphill slopes. There are also waxless skis that have a type of skin on the underside that helps with friction. Which one is best is simply a matter of taste, but if you want to get out on the trails quickly without hassle, waxless skis are often preferable.

Checklist

• Skis or snowboard in the right length
• Well-fitting trainers or boots
• Helmet that is intact and undamaged
• Rods - if needed
• Goggles to protect your eyes from sun and wind
• Clothing according to the weather, preferably wind- and water-repellent
• Back protector, also called back plate

Try it out to see what suits you best!