VIDEO: Guide to what skis and boots you should get
Find out what ski boots and skis you should get for the winter
We met with Steve from Altmann Sports in Vevey to discuss skis and boots for intermediate, beginner and advanced skiers.
Altmann Sports is one of the best ski and outdoor shops around Lake Geneva. They provide seasonal ski and ski boot hire for people living in Lausanne, Vevey or Montreux every winter.
Steve is one of the most knowledgeable people we know, and the advice he gives to his customers is invaluable.
Seasonal Rental - Skis and Boots
If you are planning to rent skis and boots for the season, the rental process begins during the first weekend of the autumn school holidays.
This timing allows ample opportunity to cater to customers' preferences and needs. Around 50% of the season's ski rentals are completed before Christmas. Despite the continuous demand, there isn't a significant advantage to securing better equipment by coming in early, as the shop consistently manages to have everything available.
The focus is on understanding customers' requirements and providing options for renting the best skis and boots. There is always the possibility to purchase them at the season's end.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKIS FOR BEGINNERS
For beginners, choosing the right skis is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth introduction to the slopes. The primary considerations involve opting for skis with a lightweight design, a noticeable rocker for ease of turning, and a flexible build that allows for smoother maneuvers. The emphasis here is on providing equipment that aids the learning process, with particular attention to adjusting ski lengths for maneuverability.
The initial focus, especially for children, is on shorter skis that are tailored to their size and skill level. This strategic approach recognizes the benefit of accommodating beginners with equipment that aligns with their learning curve.
As beginners progress in their skiing journey, Altmann sports provides the option to explore and test different skis. This trial-and-error process aims to help individuals find the skis that best match their evolving skill set and preferences. Overall, the goal is to facilitate a seamless transition for beginners, offering the right blend of features to enhance their skiing experience.
Choosing the right ski for an intermediate skier
For intermediate skiers, the focus shifts to the exciting prospect of potentially owning their own gear. When considering the right ski, the shop acknowledges the diverse preferences of intermediate skiers, recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you lean towards carving up the groomed slopes or venturing into all-mountain terrain, there's a ski that caters to your style.
Steve emphasizes the versatility of all-mountain skis, which are designed to handle various conditions. While they may not excel in any specific condition, these skis offer a well-rounded performance that suits the diverse preferences of intermediate skiers. The philosophy is clear: find a ski that aligns with your preferred style of skiing, be it on-piste precision or exploring beyond the groomed trails.
For those looking to add a touch of fun to their skiing experience, you can introduce twin-tip skis. These skis are not only wider but also feature a design that allows skiers to tackle deep snow with ease. However, Steve and Dave advise caution. These are considered free-ride skis, and skiing them effectively requires both good snow conditions and ample skill.
CHOOSING SKIS FOR ADVANCED SKIERS
Choosing advanced skis requires a careful balance between performance and versatility. While wider skis may be tempting for deep powder days, they can be challenging, requiring higher speeds and more effort to turn. The optimal width for advanced skis is around 75 to 80 mm underfoot, providing versatility for various conditions.
The importance of having a quiver of skis for different scenarios is emphasized. Specialized skis, like racing skis for groomed slopes and fat skis for powder days, each serve a unique purpose. The discussion also touches on the subjective experience of finding the right ski for an individual's preferences and skill level.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT BINDINGS
Choosing the right ski bindings is crucial, and the conversation highlights the importance of elasticity in bindings for a beginner's safety. Elasticity allows for the natural movement of the foot inside the binding, preventing premature releases and potential falls, especially for those new to skiing.
The discussion also touches on the significance of binding features for different skiing levels. More advanced skiers, particularly those over 65 kilos, may benefit from bindings with increased elasticity. Additionally, touring bindings are introduced as a versatile option, allowing skiers to transition easily between normal skiing and touring with a simple adjustment.
Lastly, the aesthetic appeal. Looking good on the slopes can contribute to feeling good and having an enjoyable skiing experience.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKI BOOTS
Choosing the right ski boots is crucial, and Steve, with his expert knowledge, can determine the suitable boots for customers by assessing their foot shape and size. He emphasizes the importance of comfort, recommending a snug fit that provides support without causing discomfort or restricting blood circulation.
Steve shares valuable insights into boot features, such as adjustable buckles that allow for precise customization. He also discusses the significance of flex ratings, explaining that beginners may benefit from softer boots while advanced skiers, like himself, may prefer stiffer options for better control.
The conversation covers practical tips on how to fasten ski boots, emphasizing starting from the bottom to ensure a secure fit and avoiding over-tightening. Steve highlights the role of power straps as an additional support mechanism, especially for larger individuals who require extra ankle support.
The numbers on the boots, indicating size and flex rating, are demystified, with Steve explaining how they correlate with comfort and performance. He stresses the importance of trying on multiple boots to find the perfect match and encourages customers to prioritize boots over skis, as the right boots significantly impact the skiing experience.
In conclusion, Steve emphasizes that investing time in finding the right ski boots is paramount, as they are the key to a comfortable and enjoyable skiing experience, potentially lasting for at least five years.
A huge thanks to Steve at Altmann Sports for all this amazing information.
CONTACT
ALTMANN SPORTS
Rue de la Madeleine 22
1800 Vevey