The best ski suits. The best alpine skis: rating and characteristics Combi skis which are better review

Skiing as an element of entertainment, and later as a competitive sports discipline, originated quite a long time ago. The idea of ​​​​creating more comfortable and narrow analogues of snowshoes for hunting needs was met with approval, and the world saw, in fact, the first advent of skis as full-fledged equipment for practical use.

However, a truly powerful catalyst for the development of technologies for the production of ski paraphernalia was the inclusion of special disciplines in the winter sports program and the subsequent popularization healthy image life through skiing.

Today, close competition occurs not only on the ski tracks and designated areas: far beyond their borders, there is a struggle for primacy among manufacturing companies, unnoticed by many. A huge number of brands and trademarks are vying for a high place, but not everyone can achieve success. We have selected for you the 10 best manufacturers of cross-country skis, divided into three thematic categories. Places in the ranking were distributed taking into account the following criteria:

• popularity of the company in Russia;
• the level of quality of products sold;
• the width of the assortment presented in domestic stores;
• average cost level;
• durability of the kits and resistance to wear.

The best manufacturers of budget cross-country skis

5 ATEMI

The best choice for beginners
A country: Russia (manufactured in China)
Rating (2019): 4.5

ATEMI can be considered a manufacturer in name only. At its core, it is an online store that cooperates with Chinese enterprises and sells sports equipment under its own brand. Among the variety of products in the ATEMI catalog, there are only cross-country skis designed for classic skiing and for amateur skiing.

One of the brightest representatives of the range is the ATEMI Escape series. The basis of the skis in this series is a lightweight (but, alas, not the most durable) core, “packed” in high-tech ABS plastic (an inexpensive material with balanced characteristics of strength, ductility and hardness). The sliding surface is treated with extruded polyester, which provides not the fastest, but stable movement (very much depends on the method of applying lubricant). The cost of such a kit varies from 1200 to 1600 rubles, which is an excellent indicator for both beginners and avid ski lovers.

4 Larsen

The cheapest cross-country skis
Country: Finland
Rating (2019): 4.5

The Finnish company Larsen is the most loyal manufacturer and supplier of cross-country skis, based on their cost level. Almost all the kits in its assortment are versatile and suitable for both skating and classic skating, which is especially good for beginner athletes.

Many potential users ask a completely reasonable question about what quality guarantees skis can offer, the cost of which barely exceeds a thousand rubles (and in some cases does not exceed this level at all). The fact is that no revolutionary technologies or developments are used in their manufacture, since Larsen adheres to a purely traditional approach to production. A standard wooden core is placed under a plastic body, which makes the ski lighter and more flexible for maneuvering. Extruded polyethylene is used as a sliding surface, the degree of sliding of which greatly depends on the lubrication. Overall, Larsen skis are an ideal option for beginner athletes whose main goal is to master running skills.

3 Nordway

The best cross-country skis for the Russian climate
A country: Russia (manufactured in China)
Rating (2019): 4.6

A name known to almost all residents of our vast country. Nordway is the own trademark of the SportMaster chain of stores (read: company), which produces a huge number of different products.

Perhaps the above fact does not have a very positive effect on the quality of individual ski sets, but the situation as a whole is compensated by the low price. The most popular children's skis in the Nordway assortment are hybrid cross-country models aimed at a combined skiing style. It is not possible to talk about any technological solutions in such a situation - everything was done with an eye to the old design school, albeit using modern materials. Be that as it may, skis from Nordway are certainly a means of mastering skiing skills and achieving a certain sporting level. And given their suitability for use in Russian climatic conditions, low cost and prevalence in the official distributor’s chain of stores, such skis will become optimal choice for young and beginner skiers.

2 TISA

Optimal combination of price and quality
Country: Austria
Rating (2019): 4.8

A company whose period of wide popularity occurred in the 60s of the last century. The reason for this is prosaic: almost the entire range of winter sports equipment available in Soviet stores consisted of TISA brand clubs and skis. Alas, with the arrival of stronger opponents on the market in the person of Fischer, Madshus and a number of other companies, TISA gradually lost its customer base and turned into, albeit a strong, but middle peasant in such a merciless competitive segment. The company's sports flagships have been replaced by “peace-loving” classic ski models such as the Adventure Step, Sport Wax and Classic Step.

Some domestic experts prefer to classify TISA as a “national” manufacturer, since most of the country’s sports history and achievements were in one way or another connected with this company. In fact, the current brand is a kind of “relaunch” of the activities of the once existing factory, which since 1995 has been officially owned by the well-known Austrian company Fischer. Having such a strong technological base and rich history, TISA naturally receives fourth place in the ranking of the best.

1 Dynamic

Best quality budget cross-country skis
Country: France
Rating (2019): 4.9

Another clear example of how a more popular brand is released under a lesser-known trademark to meet the needs of a wide user mass. As in the case of TISA, which is backed by the Austrian company Fischer, Dynamic is a subsidiary of another large Austrian company - Atomic - and fully benefits from all the budgetary developments (and, equally, production lines) of the more eminent holder.

In domestic realities, in fact, only one model of cross-country skis is in great demand - the Dynamic VR52 Grip, created specifically for beginner athletes. It is sharpened in a classic way, characterized by a lightweight design, functionality and relatively low cost. By the way, the latter quality applies to the entire range of the brand, which, coupled with high strength, only benefits consumers.

The best manufacturers of premium cross-country skis

5 Atomic

High quality products. Huge selection of skis for beginners
Country: Austria
Rating (2019): 4.6

Another Austrian manufacturer of cross-country skis, which is a leader in the category of equipment for young athletes. There are not many obvious prerequisites for this: in addition to the high quality of the kits (which is also true for “adult” models), the only thing that should attract consumers is the price level, fortunately, Atomic’s pricing policy is doing well.

All sets of skis for children are built on the basis of the same technology - High Densolite, which indicates the presence of a core made of lightweight synthetic material in the skis. Also, almost all models have a redistributed mass balance due to the use of 3D Touring profiles, which improves handling and compensates for energy consumption for auxiliary movements.

One of the company's brightest representatives is the ATOMIC RACE COMBI JUNIOR kit, built using a special Race profile to enhance the push-off effect and increase stability when cornering. This is a technologically advanced and popular classic in Russia, suitable for children and teenagers up to 168 centimeters tall. The cost of RACE COMBI JUNIOR does not exceed 5.5 thousand rubles, which is a good price indicator.

4 Salomon

The best ski manufacturers for women
Country: France
Rating (2019): 4.7

The French company Salomon is a prominent representative of universal manufacturers focused on the production of sports equipment and professional winter equipment. Despite the fact that the brand’s product range includes both snowboards and skiing various designs, the traditionally strong segment is cross-country skiing, inherited classic features with a mixture of new technologies.

While other brands try to create a product based on one single concept, Salomon introduces several of its own developments into production at once, focusing primarily on the unique characteristics. This measure has its place, but some combinations give completely unpredictable results.

An undoubted advantage of the company is its focus on the majority of sports-savvy users. Salomon's assortment includes a huge number of classic and amateur-level skate models, a prominent example of which is the Salomon SNOWSCAPE 7 SIAM. Owners of these skis note the successful geometry, somewhat unexpected but positive sensations caused by a shift in the center of gravity, optimal rigidity and dynamic performance, as well as a pleasantly low price.

3 Madshus

Popular manufacturer. Optimal reliability parameters
Country: Norway
Rating (2019): 4.7

A Norwegian brand, advertising of which was recently displayed on all TVs in a large country. As is the case with competing brands, the activities of this company are tailored to the production of a wide range of products - from skis for slalom and ski jumping to cross-country skis for classics and skating. By the way, the latter have a very flexible division and are produced for different user groups: the more expensive ones are aimed at professional athletes (among them we can note the enchanting Madshus Terrasonic Skate model), and the budget ones (such as the Madshus Intrasonic Classic) are suitable for beginners and transition-level athletes. At the same time, it cannot be said that the price characteristic greatly influences the quality indicators of products. Yes, technologies of varying complexity of implementation are being used, but from the point of view of operational reliability they do not solve much.

If everything is clear with cross-country skiing for beginners, then professional ones raise some questions regarding the results produced by athletes. Many users note that the speed characteristics of skis are highly dependent on the correct application of lubricant, and all - even minor - inaccuracies are automatically transferred to the physical qualities of the athlete.

2 Rossignol

Verified manufacturer. High quality of products
Country: France
Rating (2019): 4.8

One of the world's oldest ski brands, whose history has crossed the threshold of one century. Rossignol is a premium manufacturer of winter sports equipment, the first to master the technology of making skis based on carbon fiber and polymer plastic. Without stopping there, the French company is constantly in search of improving its already wonderful series, for which it is awarded the highest places (not lower than second) in ratings of various levels and scales.

If we think more globally and discard the division of manufacturers into categories, then Rossignol is one of those few whose mountain and running series are practically not inferior in class to each other. But since we chose the latter, we will follow a methodical story about it. And there really is something to talk about here. All cross-country ski sets have a sliding coating made of a particularly lightweight aramid laminate, which ensures a high degree of stability on varied terrain, as well as good edging. The strength of the ski is ensured by the use of a carbon layer right on top of the core and hard plastic right at the bottom of the product. Alas, all this magnificence has one serious drawback: despite the excellent performance, durability and quality, the cost of the kit seriously limits the number of buyers.

1 Fischer

The best combination of price and quality
Country: Austria
Rating (2019): 4.9

The first line of the rating is occupied by a well-known Austrian company, whose first products were trolleys and winter sleds. As technology improved and consumer demands increased, the big bosses of the company realized that it was time to expand the range of products, and in 1936 the first skis hit the shelves of sports equipment stores. The brand slowly gained popularity, but had to wait almost a century for global recognition - this achievement was achieved by the Austrians only in 2006, when they were officially recognized as the best supplier of skis for Olympic Games in Italian Turin.

Despite the fact that the company’s assortment includes a huge number of alpine skis, including an outstanding series of equipment for sports slalom (namely the RC4 Worldcup SC, developed in close collaboration with famous alpine skiers), it is the running sets that deserve special mention. The manufacturing technology of each individual series is distinguished by a dizzying variety: here the stiffening ribs are reinforced with titanium, and the nose part is covered with carbon, and even the core is made in a very intricate form. The cost of Fischer skis is far from budget, but is fully justified by the high quality and long service life.

People who start skiing are faced with the problem of choosing a ski pair. When buying skate skis, you need to consider: method of use, experience of the athlete. And also, we must not forget about what surfaces you are going to drive on: prepared trails or undeveloped virgin soil. When choosing a pair of skis, you need to pay attention to the stiffness and length of the product.

Skis

Such skis are designated by the letters SK or the word Skate. They are shorter than the walking models. In addition, there are no notches on them. When skating, the notches only slow down the skier's movements. Products must be selected depending on the athlete.

Boots

To ensure safe skiing, you need to choose appropriate shoes. Regular boots are not suitable for ski boots. For reliability, comfort and better control, you need to buy special ski shoes.

Ski poles

At the time of buying

In order for your skis to last as long as possible, you need to properly care for them: treat them with various impregnations and lubricants. Once the skiing season has passed, they need to be properly prepared for storage. Before putting the equipment into the case, the remaining lubricant is removed from the products and covered with a new layer of paraffin.

High-quality equipment will serve the skier for several seasons, maintaining its characteristics in its original condition. When choosing ski equipment, take into account the method of use of the product and the experience of the athlete. Skate skis are not suitable for performing tricks and jumps.

Skiing, as a separate form of entertainment and a type of sports competition, includes full preparation and the presence of the necessary accessory - a set of cross-country skis. Which brands are the most popular and meet quality requirements?

Cross-country skis Fischer

The hallmark of the quality of Fisher products is RACE CODE. Professionals are interested in the main thing - speed, in which equipment plays a key role. New generations of Fisher cross-country skis will captivate athletes and amateur racers. Thanks to the new WAX technology, maximum gliding on the snow surface is ensured.

The line is presented in several types:

• Race Classic
• Race Combi
• Race Skating
• Women My Style
• Nordic Cruising
• Offtrack Cruising
• Sport
• Backcountry
• S-Bound
• Junior

The technologies used in production make any model simply ideal for use by beginners and professionals. The price on the market ranges from 2,500 to 20,000 rubles, depending on the type and configuration.

High quality Rossignol skis

A distinctive feature of Rossignol skis, for which they are so valued by professionals, is their non-standard operating mode. The sets are characterized by energy intensity and slip resistance on surfaces of any density. Since all athletes try to choose skis with a reserve of rigidity, there is no need to do this with Rossignol - pay attention to the weight of the model. Manufacturer Rossignol - France, which indicates the highest level of build quality:

• manual assembly
• Possibility of customizing the press

Thanks to special markings on skis, everyone can easily choose the best product for amateur or professional skiing.

Wide range of Atomic skis

Atomic cross-country skis are the product of craftsmen from Austria, real specialists in the production of equipment for winter sports. Thanks to the technologies used, full control over the mechanism, high dynamics and maximum speed. In addition, over the past season, the Atomic range has become the most popular at the largest ski races in Switzerland.

Since this manufacturer offers professional kits, their cost is an order of magnitude higher than previous brands and starts from 8000 rubles.

Popular ski brand Madshus

Madshus brand products are known to everyone who is partial to skiing. The products of this brand are actively used by professionals and just fans of driving on snowy slopes. The first Madshus kits were made in 1924 in Martin Madshus's barn. Since then, the era of cross-country and alpine ski production began, which to this day is accompanied by numerous awards and the status of one of the best for professionals and amateurs.

The design, thought out to the smallest detail, ensures perfect gliding on any snow density. Cad Construction technologies are used in production.

For connoisseurs of skiing and active winter recreation, a line of cross-country skis has been created by Salomon, one of the leading manufacturers of sporting goods. Over the years, the brand has managed to prove itself from the best side in many competitions around the world. Salomon skis are European quality. The line includes models for both regular walking and skating. Universal structures allow you to ride comfortably on any type of snow trail.

To manufacture products, Salomon uses the best wood species and composite materials of the highest quality.

The Larsen company from Finland is an inexpensive manufacturer of cross-country skis. Almost all products are characterized by versatility and are suitable for both skating and classic skating. Are there quality guarantees for skis whose price barely reaches 2000 rubles? The whole point is that revolutionary technologies are not used for production.

Manufacturing takes place according to the classic design, which makes the skis ideal for maneuvers on slippery surfaces. Therefore, if you need to master skating techniques, Larsen will become ideal option in this difficult matter.

Nordway - ideal skis for Russia

This brand is known to everyone who is familiar with skiing. This is a personal brand of the Sportmaster network. By the way, not all sets in this line can boast of perfection. But this picture is compensated by the rather budget cost from 1200 rubles. The most popular in the assortment are children's models of combined style. The production uses a traditional approach, but adds a twist modern materials High Quality.

Attention! NORDWAY skis are optimal for the climatic conditions of Russia, suitable for mastering the art of skiing and for semi-professional competitions.

ATEMI - cross-country skiing for beginners

The brand's products are represented mainly by running models designed for classic running and amateur skating. The most popular representative is the ATEMI Escape line. At the heart of each kit is a core packed in plastic. The surface is lubricated with polyester, which ensures stable but not fast movement.

The cost of the Atemi kit is on average 1500 rubles, which makes this line accessible to beginner runners and true lovers of skiing on snowy slopes.

The history of the Tisa company celebrated its 50th anniversary a couple of years ago. Before the appearance of competitors in the market represented by the above brands, the company occupied a leading position. Thus, today TISA products occupy a confident place in the mid-price segment. Experts in the field of skiing consider TISA to be a “national treasure”, since the history of the brand is closely connected with many achievements of the sports era.

TISA skis are time-tested and available for purchase to almost everyone. The design makes it easy to maneuver on snowy roads of any density.

See also the video selection of walking cross-country skis for a beginner:

Interesting too

This article on the website is dedicated to beginner skiers. If you choose skis for walking or for your child for physical education, then you are on the right track. From the article you will learn how to choose the right skis based on height, material and other characteristics, what to look for Special attention, and what can be neglected.

Before purchasing, you need to decide on three main parameters by which you choose skis:

• what do you need them for (for walking, running for competitions, going downhill, for hunting, etc.);
• your level of skating (beginner amateur or professional);
• your physical parameters (weight and height).

How to choose treadmills

Cross-country skiing is chosen depending on your preferred skiing style. There are three styles:

1. classical,
2. ridge,
3. combined.

Classic

Our grandfathers and grandmothers rode the classic style, sliding along two parallel tracks, but it has not lost its relevance. Classic style Best suited for the beginner skier.

Length

Skis for classic skiing should be 20-30 cm longer than your own height. For beginners, you can choose a slightly shorter length, then it will be easier to control them.

Rigidity

If you have seen skis, then you know that they have an arched shape and if you put them on the floor, their middle will not touch it. The more difficult it is to push the ski to the floor, the stiffer they are.

The stiffness must be selected depending on your weight. The heavier the skier, the greater the stiffness should be.

You can check the correct selection of skis in terms of stiffness in the following way:

1. put them on the floor;
2. place a sheet of paper under the middle;
3. stand with both feet on both skis, there should be a gap to the floor and the sheet of paper will move freely;
4. stand with both feet on one ski, it should completely touch the floor, and the piece of paper will be pressed to the floor and you will not be able to pull it out.

By following the example above, you can choose the right stiffness. Some manufacturers indicate what weight they are intended for.

With and without notch

Skis for classic skiing can be with or without notches on the sliding surface.

Without notches, they are suitable for any weather, for long walks and fast driving.

They are more difficult to ride as they can slip backwards. To eliminate this deficiency, special ointments are used.

Skating move

This is a new style of skating, also called free style. The runner makes skate-like movements, pushing off inner surface skis With its help you can develop the highest speed.

For the skating style, a compacted wide track is ideal, but you can do without it; then you won’t have to count on high speed.

Skis for skating are selected a little shorter and stiffer than for the classic style.

Length

For skating, the length should be 10-15 cm greater than the skier’s height.

Rigidity

The rigidity is approximately two times greater than for the classics. If you press the ski with your hand to the floor, there should be a gap of 1.5-2 mm.

Universal

As the name suggests, all-mountain skis are something between classic and skate skis. This applies to both ski selection parameters ( average length and rigidity) and the style of mixed skating.

Length

All-mountain skis are 15-20 cm taller than the skier.

Let's summarize: running shoes are suitable for flat terrain; for beginners it is better to choose classic ones with notches, and for advanced ones, universal ones.

Material of manufacture

All skis are made of wood or plastic.

In the past, plastic skis were rare and expensive. Now, on the contrary, most people ride on plastic.

Advantages of plastic skis:

• they are stronger and therefore more durable than wooden ones;
• snow sticks to them less during the thaw;
• more speedy.

The most reputable companies producing plastic skis are Atomic and Fischer. You can buy equipment from them for both beginners and professional sports. You can also highlight domestic manufacturers “Karelia” and “Tisa”.

How to choose the right skis

Alpine skiing is very different from cross-country skiing, both in design and in the method of selection. Their main purpose is to descend from mountains, developing high speeds.

Remember right away that if you are new to skiing, then you cannot choose professional sports equipment. It is designed to develop very high speeds, which you as a beginner may not be able to handle, which will lead to injury.

Length

The size is selected not only depending on the athlete’s height, but also his professional skills. The shorter the skis, the easier they are to control.

If you are a beginner skier, then choose a length 20 cm less than your height.

If you have been skiing downhill for several years now and have achieved good results, then choose a length that is 10 cm less than your height.

For a professional, skis as long as his own height are suitable.

For women, it is better to reduce the above size by another 5 cm, and for people with above average weight, on the contrary, increase it by 5 cm.

Rigidity

The basic rule for choosing the stiffness of alpine skis is that the higher the professional skills and weight of the athlete, the stiffer they should be.

The one with the least rigidity is suitable for a beginner, as they are easier to control.

Hard and medium hardness are suitable for professionals and people who have been confidently skiing downhill for several years. Since they are designed for sharp turns and high speeds.

Another parameter that is worth paying attention to when choosing alpine skis is their structure:

• carving;
• classic.

Carving skis differ from classic skis in that they look like they are fitted, i.e. the ends are wider than the central part. They are more stable than classic ones, so they are recommended for beginners.

1. Externally, both skis should be absolutely identical and not differ in width, length and weight.
2. Look at them from the side; the bend of the sliding surface should be smooth.
3. The longitudinal groove on the sliding surface is straight, without any wobble.
4. There are no scratches, cracks or other defects on the sliding surface.
5. Place the skis with the sliding surface facing each other and squeeze them as tightly as possible with your hands. The rigidity should be the same. The socks should remain closed.
6. Find the center of gravity of the skis, it must coincide, deviation of no more than 1.5 cm is allowed.

How to choose ski poles

You have learned how to choose skis, now you may be faced with the question of choosing ski poles. This is an important part of ski equipment that you cannot do without.

Ski poles must be:

• durable;
• hard;
• lungs.

Sticks are also selected depending on the height of the athlete. For lovers of skating, the poles should be 15-20 cm less than the owner’s height, and for classic skaters, 25-30 cm less than the owner’s height.

You cannot buy poles for a child to grow into, as he will get tangled in them and it will be uncomfortable to ride.

For an amateur, aluminum ski poles are quite suitable.

It is better to choose handles from a non-slip material such as cork or leather with anatomical grooves for the fingers.

It is better to choose support for poles with a reverse cone (the safest) rather than with legs (the most inconvenient when riding).

For children under 7 years old, choose the length of sticks up to the armpits, with a blunt tip.

How to choose hunting

Hunting skis are designed for movement on loose snow by hunters or fishermen with additional load. Therefore, unlike running ones, they should not be long and narrow, but short and wide.

The average length, regardless of the owner’s height, should be about 175 cm.

The best hunting skis are made from maple or birch; they are more wear-resistant than spruce.

Preparation before first use

After you have chosen skis in the store, you need to prepare them before using them for the first time.

Plastic

1. Wipe the treated surface with a rag soaked in turpentine.
2. Apply melted paraffin using movements from toe to heel, only on the area under the shoe.
3. Warm up with an iron preheated to 200 degrees. And let dry for several hours.
4. Excess cooled paraffin must be carefully removed.
5. Upon completion of all processes, wipe the sliding surface with a synthetic cloth.

The above procedure must be carried out at least once a year.

Wooden

1. Sand the sliding surface with fine sandpaper.
2. Apply special resin from a sports store to the sliding surface and warm it up blowtorch or a special burner.
3. Wait until the resin is absorbed and repeat the previous step 3-4 more times. The skis should darken, but do not overheat or the wood will begin to char.
4. Tie the ends of the skis by inserting a spacer in the center.

Today, with the development of appropriate resorts and infrastructure, they are becoming not only a sport, but also a hobby for an increasing number of people. What is their phenomenon? Maybe in the childhood memories of sculpted snowmen, hidden in the subcortex of the brain, of riding down snow-covered slides? Most likely, this is so, because many of their lovers talk about the unforgettable feeling of returning to a carefree childhood, and therefore they specially take a vacation during the ski season.

How can one not recall a quote from the work of Ernst Hemingway “...we rushed, bent down... surrendering to speed in this endless fall, in the silent hiss of snow dust. It was better than any flight, better than anything in this world!”

About skiing

Let’s say a person decides to join this sport for his own pleasure. Writer Roman Nadiryan ironically described this moment: “Ivan Veniaminovich got on skis for the first time. My heart beat faster and my breath was taken away. My knees were shaking. He didn’t know what to do next. This happened on the train."

Perhaps the neophyte can be advised to be simpler, and for the first year not even think about sharp turns and speeds. Gradualism is the mantra of skiing.

A beginner going to a ski resort can only purchase a helmet and special boots on his first trip. It is better for him, who is taking his first steps, to rent equipment upon arrival.

This will “become clear” to him later, he will figure out which skis are worth buying. In any case, it is better not to do this from the start. What other common mistakes should he be warned against? Beginners should not buy professional equipment and hard skis. Ratings by price categories, i.e. the principle “the more expensive the better,” do not work here. They only disorient the “teapot”.

An adept’s business plan should be something like this: first achieve a universal level, and then choose your favorite skiing area.

In at least two years, having gained experience, yesterday's beginner will be able to specialize in alpine skiing according to his taste. Modern alpine skiing is divided into generally recognized areas that are Olympic disciplines:

• Freeride - off-piste skiing.
• Carving is movement along a prepared track with “cut” turns: fast and short or long and arcing.
• Slalom is a descent in which the athlete must pass through all the “gates” placed on the track.
• Mogul - descent from a slope with bumps.

Manufacturers of ski equipment

Currently, many companies produce high-tech alpine skis. The ratings of these companies are high, and the brands are famous, they are on the lips of both the kings of the ski slopes and amateurs:

• Atomic is an Austrian company that has established itself as a manufacturer of equipment for champions, part of the Amersports corporation.
• Elan is a Slovenian company that invented a revolutionary fastening. A recognized leader in the manufacture of functional mid-class skis.
• Fischer is a leader in the world market, the oldest company (1936) from Austria. Associated with most of the Olympic medals won by alpine skiers.
• Head is an Austrian company, a leader in technology. Her skis are adaptive to the type of snow surface and riding speed.
• Nordica is an Italian manufacturer of alpine skis and equipment.
• Scott is an American company that has been on the ski equipment market since 1998.
• Völkl is a monopolist of ski equipment in Germany, the products are known for their quality.
• K2 is an American high-tech brand. The fasteners are installed without drilling holes.
• Salomon is originally a French company, then bought by Adidas. Now part of the Amersports corporation.

Thus, we have decided on the companies that are trendsetters in ski fashion. In the future (at the end of the article) we will try to identify the leaders from their totality and compile an objective rating of manufacturers.

Obviously, before this you need to systematically consider the skis themselves.

Ski classes

We will try to use the generally accepted international classification of alpine skiing. For easier perception, we present the information in the form of a table.

Let's analyze it. Skis of categories A and B are too steep for beginners. They are designed for professional high-speed descent, as well as for its hard icy surface. For those taking their first steps in this sport, it is recommended that, depending on age, categories D, E, and only then C.

However, despite all the “advantages”, such a classification is useless for determining the rating of ski brands, because their primary characteristic is specialization.

Functional classification

The current models of alpine skis from these companies have their own history of development, improvement and testing. Their characteristics are improved every year. Recreational athletes can't go wrong if they choose from any of the above-mentioned brands. And yet, in this article we will identify the best brands for 2016/2017.

1. For skiing and relaxation (Allround).
2. Trail all-rounders with no restrictions on turning radius and riding style (Allmountain).
3. For carving tracks with short and frequent turns (SL/SC).
4. For carving and slalom with high-speed turns of large and medium radius (GS/RC/XT).
5. Skiing on the slopes is prepared, but there is also provision for going beyond them (Freeski).
6. For off-piste skiing within the ski resort (Frontside, Freeride).
7. For skiing outside the ski resort, off-piste (Backside, Freeride).

In the following, the leading models in each of the seven categories mentioned will be indicated.

Allround category rating: skiing and recreation

For theoretical training of Allround debutants, we recommend the American textbook “Alpine Skiing Lessons” - an ordered collection of instructions from various coaches. It is useful and has good reviews.

A beginner who craves an exciting and healthy outdoor recreation will choose the rated skis from the Allround category covered in this section of the article. The poetess Lydia Romanova once said wonderfully about such an adept:

“I quit smoking, started skiing,

Life has decided to start a new one!

And, like a schoolgirl, she ran

Charge your body with health!”

In another case, if a beginner is a convinced athlete, has good physical fitness and strives to achieve results in the future, it is reasonable for him to choose skis from the Allmountain category, which we will consider a little later.

Let's evaluate alpine skiing for active recreation, in other words, consider the Allround rating. The Olympus of the best models will look like this:

1. Black Magic produced by the American company Scott. Effective in any riding mode, stable in cutting, comfortable in sliding turns.
2. Progressor F18 from the Austrian company Fischer. Successful on any track and easy to control.
3. GT76 TIEVO from Italian manufacturer Nordica. Equally good for any trail, for any riding style.

However, in fairness, we will not remain silent about the successful RTM 75 iS brand from the German company Völkl.

Allmountain all-mountain ski rating

These skis are suitable for any style. They are maneuverable: with their help, the athlete can turn both along a large and small radius. Allmountain demonstrates enviable cross-country ability on rough roads and excellent grip on icy, hard roads. They are characterized by comfortable lateral slip and optimal turning trajectory, as well as stability at speed. The book by R. Mark Elling, “The Universal Skier,” will help beginners understand the features of Allmountain. We recommend her.

The first, not yet very confident, descents give unforgettable impressions to those starting training. They are fascinating. One of the athletes said about this: “Alpine skiing is like a waltz with the mountain, and the mountain leads.”

Due to their dynamism, Allmountain skis are recommended for beginners with good physical fitness. The rating of all-mountain skis for the 2016-2017 season is known:

1. ProMtn 80Ti from the Austrian company Fischer. They demonstrate excellent carving skating, as well as decent maneuverability. Lightweight and comfortable for the skier.
2. RTM84 UVO from the German company Völkl. Dynamic and controllable with a “cut arc” trajectory.
3. iKonic 80Ti from K2. Really versatile and easy to manage.

In addition to the leading models, the following are worthy of praise:

• Vantage X83CTI from the Austrian brand Atomic. The model is stable and confident on the sports track.
• Model The Ski by American manufacturer Scott. It is technologically advanced and manageable in terms of rigidity, depending on the nature of the track. Convenient for all types of riding.
• Model Strong InstinctTi from the Austrian brand Head. It performs remarkably well on turns of any diameter.

Alpine skis for short runs with frequent turns

Those learning this subtype of alpine skiing can benefit from Kaniovsky’s book “Carving Technique for Dummies.” For skis in this case, springiness, dynamics, and edge grip on an icy track are important. However, that's not all. The athlete should calculate his trajectory, measure it against the steepness of the slope, and have a clear view of the route. And most importantly, do not forget that brains are the main item of equipment for a skier.

Alpine skis belonging to the SL/SC category are specialized for “carved” turns. The ranking is topped by the German company Völkl:

1. Racetiger SC UVO. High indicators of rail stability and dynamics.
2. X-Race SW165 from the Slovenian company Elan. Excellent handling and gliding.
3. X-Race SW 165 from the French-American company Salomon.

In addition to the leading models, the RC4 Worldcup SC products from the Austrian company Fischer deserve recognition.

Speed ​​carving, slalom GS/RC/XT

Only after learning a confident alpine skiing technique can you move on to mastering the next level of athlete training - downhill skiing. Variability in the diameter of turns, edge grip on an icy slope, and confident movement on a broken and soft track characterize it.

Specialized alpine skiing is in demand here. Their rating for the 2016-2017 season. opens a German brand:

1. Code Speedwall UVOS from the German company Völkl. Amateur skis are as close as possible to sports skis in terms of speed and turning dynamics.
2. GSX Fusion from the Slovenian brand Elan. They perform well on soft and broken slopes and are maneuverable.
3. Redster Doubledeck 3.0 XT from the Austrian company Atomic. Remarkable cornering dynamics. Enviable grip on icy roads.

The rating of alpine skis for carving is not a dogma. It all depends on the individual skier. For example, some respondents prefer the Worldcup iSpeed ​​Rebels model from the Austrian company Head for dynamics and comfort, and some prefer the RC4 The Booster Curv from the Austrian brand Head.

Freeski rating

Amateur skiers call this method of skiing borderline between a prepared piste and freeride. It allows minor crossings of the skier's boundaries and various tricks. There are no restrictions on style here: you are free to choose sliding, maneuverable or cut.

Obviously, for this to happen, mountain skis must be easy to control and springy. The rating of such models is headed by the American brand K2:

1. The Marksman model combines maneuverability and speed on the highway with excellent traversal of virgin soil.
2. The Punisher 110 of the American Scott brand demonstrates advanced capabilities in small jumps on hilly terrain.
3. TST from the Austrian company Armada, known in the world as the pros in freeski equipment. The skis, as their owners assure, are “weightless and obedient.”

Freeride

When riding along the side of resort slopes, speed stability and edge grip on hard or icy slopes, significant vibration damping, and adaptability to different styles descent The rating of freeride skis is also headed by the technological American company K2:

1. The Marksman model is maximally adapted to the descent on virgin soil and, in addition, has good characteristics on the track.
2. Sky 7HD from the French company Rossignol, specializing in freeride - Rossignol. Outstanding speed and trajectory control capabilities.
3. Confession of the German brand Völkl. It has high dynamism and freeride capability.

Freeride outside the resorts

After years and years of training, experienced skiers visit many resorts and overcome various slopes. Tens and hundreds of kilometers of descents are available. Great!..

But what next? And at this time, their gaze glides over untouched virgin soil, along the glacial descent, along the ridges of rocks, gradually lowering their height in terraces. And now they are already in their thoughts climbing up the gorge. There comes a time when the body and soul of a skier ask for something unfamiliar, fresh, new - to create their own routes, unknown to anyone.

Outside the resort pistes, loose and unrolled virgin soil predominates; here, specific requirements are placed on skis: speed stability and maneuverability.

The ability to dampen vibrations is also important. Connoisseurs of “wild” (non-resort) freeride (and there are many of them in the world) believe that this is exactly what the best alpine skiing is for. The rating of alpine ski brands in this category is headed by the same American brand K2:

1. The Pettitor model confidently rolls down the slopes in any quality and depth of snow, while maneuvering remarkably well.
2. Scrapper124 from the American company Scott demonstrate amazing versatility and unpretentiousness.
3. The Cyclic 115 from the Austrian brand Head shows stable downhill riding in deep snow.

However, the Pinnacle 118 from K2 and Super 7 HD from Rossignol are hot on the heels of the leaders in terms of their characteristics.

Conclusion

Let's summarize by looking at the best alpine ski models for the 2016-2017 season.

Having analyzed the winners in seven categories (Allround, Allmountain, SL/SC, GS/RC/XT, Freeski, Frontside Freeride, Backside, Freeride), we can answer the question: “Which companies produce top alpine skis?”

1. Volkl.
2. Scott.
3. Fischer.
4. Elan.

Thus, the rating of alpine ski manufacturers identified the companies that are most actively investing in promising developments of new models of alpine skis. The traditional leader, the Austrian company Fischer, was in fourth place. At the same time, the success of the Slovenian brand Elan is worth applauding.