ALL MOUNTAIN SKI BUYING GUIDE
An all mountain ski is a type of ski that is designed to perform well in various skiing conditions and terrain types, including groomed runs, moguls, powder, and off-piste terrain. They typically have a medium width underfoot, anywhere from 90-105mm, making them versatile and able to carve turns on groomed runs while also providing enough floatation for softer snow. They tend to have a moderate early rise tip profile, which allows for easier turn initiation and increased flotation in deeper snow. Often times, all mountain skis will have a mixture of rocker and camber to create a good shape for a wider range of conditions. Some all mountain skis have both a tip and tail raise, enabling the rider to ski backwards if they enjoy spending time in the terrain park or skiing freestyle. The flex of the ski is also important when finding an all mountain ski. A ski flex that is not too noodle-ish, yet not too stiff typically offers the sweet spot in all conditions. All mountain skis are a great option for skiers who want a single pair of skis that can handle a variety of terrain and conditions, or as some say an “one ski quiver”. There are a few important factors while purchasing all mountain skis, lets get into them!
Having one pair of skis can make skiing more convenient and cost-effective. Rather than having to purchase multiple pairs for different types of terrain and snow conditions, an all mountain ski can handle a wide variety of skiing environments. This means you won't have to spend as much money on equipment and you won't have to carry and store as many pairs of skis. In addition, using an all mountain ski can help you improve your technique across various terrains and snow conditions, as you will be able to get comfortable on the same ski in different environments. Overall, an all mountain ski can make skiing more accessible and enjoyable, allowing you to spend more time on the mountain.
An all mountain ski typically has a mix of both camber and rocker. Camber refers to the slight upward curve of the ski's profile from the center of the ski to the tip and tail. This shape provides contact points at the tip and tail, which helps with edge control and provides stability on hard-packed snow. The camber is essential for carving turns and maintaining an edge in groomed snow.
Rocker refers to the subtle curve of the ski that flattens as it reaches towards the tip and tail. The rocker shape enables the ski to float over powder and other soft snow, making it easier to initiate turns and reducing the likelihood of tip diving.
A ski with more rocker will be easier to maneuver off-piste, while a ski with more camber will provide more stability on groomed terrain. An all mountain ski typically has a combination of both camber and rocker to give it a versatile performance across different snow conditions and terrain types. When searching for an all mountain ski we suggest you look for one with a mix of camber and rocker, unless you have previous experience on different skis and prefer one feature to another.
Ski flex refers to the degree of stiffness or softness of a ski in its lengthwise direction. When you put pressure on the ski by leaning into a turn, the ski will bend or flex. The stiffness of the ski determines how much it bends or flexes, and how responsive and stable it feels underfoot.
A ski with a stiff flex will generally be more stable at high speeds and provide more edge grip on hard- packed snow. However, it can be more difficult to maneuver and may require more power and strength to initiate turns. A softer flexing ski will be easier to maneuver and turn, making it a good choice for beginner skiers or those who prefer a playful, surfy feel on the snow. However, it may not be as stable at high speeds or provide the same level of edge grip as a stiffer ski. These are both factors that come into play while looking for your pair of all mountain skis.
If you are considering spending time learning tricks or sliding rails, you may want to consider a twin tip all mountain ski. A twin-tip ski is a type of ski designed for freestyle skiing, which includes performing tricks, jumps, and skiing backward. Twin-tip skis have an upward curve or rocker at both the tip-end and tail-end, making them symmetrical in shape and allowing for easier landings in either direction. The tail also allows for a smoother release from spins and aerial tricks.
Sizing all mountain skis depends on several factors, including skier height, weight, ability level, and skiing style. Here are some general tips to help you size your all-mountain skis:
Determine your skier type: All-mountain skis are designed for intermediate to advanced skiers. If you're a beginner, you may want to size down to a more manageable ski.
Consider ski length: As a general rule, all-mountain skis should come up to your chin or nose. Longer skis provide stability at high speeds and floatation in deep powder, while shorter skis are more maneuverable and easier to turn.
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Choose a waist width: All-mountain skis typically have waist widths between 90-105mm and are meant for use in all types of snow conditions. Wider waists are better for off-piste skiing and powder, while narrower waists perform better for groomed runs.
Demo skis: If possible, try out several different skis here at Next Adventure via our demo program to get a feel for what length and waist width feels comfortable for you. Ultimately, finding the right ski size depends on your personal preferences and skiing ability. It's important to choose a ski that fits your needs and style of skiing.
A great all mountain ski that we recommend is the Lib Tech Wreckcreate 102. These skis are 102mm under foot which hits the sweet spot for an all mountain ski. These skis feature a mixture of rocker and camber, giving them an advantage in everything from powder to fresh groomers. The Wreckcreate 102’s are built with Lib Techs signature Magne-Traction technology in the edges. Magne-Traction increases edge hold and can help skiers grip the snow at faster speeds. Last but not least, Lib Technologies is based out of the PNW, and all skis are made in an eco-friendly factory in Washington.
