Mid-life, beginner, East Coast and hooked on skiing. Help me pick my gear.

Read this:
https://blisterreview.com/gear-reviews/best-skis-for-beginners-a-guide

And this:
https://blisterreview.com/gear-reviews/best-skis-for-beginners-our-top-picks-2018-2019

I'll be back later with a suggestion or two.

Thank you mystery3. Article is a good read, just when you've thought you had scrubbed the entire internet for info, something relevant comes by way of the informed–which is why I am here.

In my first boot fitting experience, having gone through two different shops I would hopefully find the perfect boot. I left the first shop a bit discouraged. The boot felt good from a fit standpoint but they all agreed a 120 flex was too stiff, his determination was a wide last of 104 and 27.5 in length. I went to another shop and their boot fitting process was completely different from the first, wide last but convinced that I should not go any longer than 26.0 in length, but did not go with the widest boot they had. Point is, I learned quickly from this experience, is that there are different approaches being applied from shop to shop, there is no magic formula. I left the second shop with a salesperson who was completely stumped, when his formula for fitting boots did not apply to me.

My first rental experience, I was put into skis that were most definitely a narrower ski, went up to my nose in length. On my first ant hill, a small slope they seemed to turn pretty well considering I had completed my first lesson, instructor liked what he saw. Feeling a bit more confident skiing alongside all the tiny tots on a hill that took seconds to go down, I decided to try my first real hill with my wife. Got about 1/4 down the hill and noticed that my skis felt very unstable as I was picking up speed. The wobble got so bad I ended up falling as I tried to make a turn. It could have been the icy, hard packed conditions but at that speed I didn't feel confident as I felt very unstable. Also thinking I wasn't ready for that hill.

Vincent_DieselThank you mystery3. Article is a good read, just when you've thought you had scrubbed the entire internet for info, something relevant comes by way of the informed–which is why I am here.

In my first boot fitting experience, having gone through two different shops I would hopefully find the perfect boot. I left the first shop a bit discouraged. The boot felt good from a fit standpoint but they all agreed a 120 flex was too stiff, his determination was a wide last of 104 and 27.5 in length. I went to another shop and their boot fitting process was completely different from the first, wide last but convinced that I should not go any longer than 26.0 in length, but did not go with the widest boot they had. Point is, I learned quickly from this experience, is that there are different approaches being applied from shop to shop, there is no magic formula. I left the second shop with a salesperson who was completely stumped, when his formula for fitting boots did not apply to me.

Vincent_DieselMy first rental experience, I was put into skis that were most definitely a narrower ski, went up to my nose in length. On my first ant hill, a small slope they seemed to turn pretty well considering I had completed my first lesson, instructor liked what he saw. Feeling a bit more confident skiing alongside all the tiny tots on a hill that took seconds to go down, I decided to try my first real hill with my wife. Got about 1/4 down the hill and noticed that my skis felt very unstable as I was picking up speed. The wobble got so bad I ended up falling as I tried to make a turn. It could have been the icy, hard packed conditions but at that speed I didn't feel confident as I felt very unstable. Also thinking I wasn't ready for that hill.

For the boots, there is no perfect formula only guidelines and approach plus experience. I don't know a ton about fitting but it's definitely easier to stretch a boot and increase space where you need it than make a too large boot fit properly.

Where do you live? Folks here probably can recommend a good fitter near you.

On the instability at speed of your rental skis that's probably multifactorial. Skill level, softer flex skis for a bigger guy playing a role.

Congrats on challenging yourself with this sport as I did my self later in life. It is addictive, fun, and will test you every step of the way but very rewarding . Especially if you have a freestyle approach which you probably do since you found NS. Now as for the boot fitting. You're doing it right going to multiple fitters. I say go to a couple more if you can and absorb what is suggested. Then you will most likely be put in the correct boot for YOU. Keep in mind you WILL have to keep tweaking the boot in search for the perfect fit. I've been at this for a handful of years now and only feel like I'm finally getting my boot to fit perfect for me, so don't let it discourage you. Its a process. I also suggest getting lessons to at least build good skiing foundation. This will help you progress faster overall.

mystery3Where do you live? Folks here probably can recommend a good fitter near you.
On the instability at speed of your rental skis that's probably multifactorial. Skill level, softer flex skis for a bigger guy playing a role.

I live in New England. I have the ski boots already, pretty happy with that part. As for skis, l am looking at a few starting points based on the references/links above.

LOCATION: New England
HEIGHT/AGE/WEIGHT: 5'9" / 45 years old / 230lbs
ABILITY LEVEL: Beginner
BUDGET: Buy once cry once mentality

What do you all think about these skis as a starting point?

1. K2 ikonic 85 Ti
2. Blizzard Brahma 88
3. Nordica Enforcer 93

SoAnGKeep in mind you WILL have to keep tweaking the boot in search for the perfect fit. I've been at this for a handful of years now and only feel like I'm finally getting my boot to fit perfect for me, so don't let it discourage you. Its a process.

Great advice. After the boot purchase, the shop fitter said to ski in them a few times before he applies the heat process and mold it to my foot. He was afraid to apply heat right away, as it may make them expand too much and becomes too large for my feet. He also wanted to see how much the liners would "pack" after some use before he shapes the boot.

Interesting they told you not to use poles? Did they say why?
Welcome to an addicting fun sport. I also learned to ski late in life.

Work on a good fitting boot first. I can spend all day of old crappy skis, I couldn't spend a day in ill fitting boots. If your locked into your boots, just try different types of skis. Demoing skis is a great way to try lots of skis. East coast is also know as ice coast. Make sure your skis are sharp.
For a beginner skier, ski size should be between chin to forehead.

Vincent_DieselI live in New England. I have the ski boots already, pretty happy with that part. As for skis, l am looking at a few starting points based on the references/links above.

LOCATION: New England
HEIGHT/AGE/WEIGHT: 5'9" / 45 years old / 230lbs
ABILITY LEVEL: Beginner
BUDGET: Buy once cry once mentality

What do you all think about these skis as a starting point?

1. K2 ikonic 85 Ti
2. Blizzard Brahma 88
3. Nordica Enforcer 93

Can I ask how you got to that as a shortlist? I'm going to be honest and say that none of those skis are what you're after - all very good skis (haven't actually tried the k2s but so I hear), but despite being happy to spend a good amount on them, it is possible to 'over ski' yourself, meaning having a ski that is designed to perform at a much higher level that it's being used for. You'd find these skis, while having someone friendly rocker profiles, absolute bitches to ski - they won't turn as easily as you want while you're advancing, and to get them to perform to their potential you need to be comfortable taking them to decent speeds. A good metric is probably that until you're comfortable rolling onto your edges and linking carved turns at reasonable speeds these are too much and will probably damped your experience with skiing. Buying a ski above your ability is good as it forces you to advance, but this is probably too far.
I'm not trying to insult you, sorry if it sounds that way, but there's nothing wrong with buying a pair more suited to your skill level before you get the pair you really want, plus they're often cheaper. Obviously you've read a bit to get those skis, so you know what you're sort of after, and one ski I'd probably recommend in the same vein is the Volkl Kendo, still versatile like you've listed, and still above your skill level, but such that you'll want to ski it to it's potential rather than be intimidated by it.

If you talk me through your thinking on the ones you've listed I can help choose what you might be after

nmwninjartInteresting they told you not to use poles? Did they say why?
Welcome to an addicting fun sport. I also learned to ski late in life.

Thank you.The instructor mentioned that learning to use the lower half of body would be correctly utilized without the use of ski poles. I didn't think this was uncommon when I heard of it, many of the people I had seen on this particular day didn't use poles as well. My wife as a teen, was also instructed to not use poles during her early learning and to this day still doesn't.

eheethCan I ask how you got to that as a shortlist? I'm going to be honest and say that none of those skis are what you're after - all very good skis (haven't actually tried the k2s but so I hear), but despite being happy to spend a good amount on them, it is possible to 'over ski' yourself, meaning having a ski that is designed to perform at a much higher level that it's being used for. You'd find these skis, while having someone friendly rocker profiles, absolute bitches to ski - they won't turn as easily as you want while you're advancing, and to get them to perform to their potential you need to be comfortable taking them to decent speeds. A good metric is probably that until you're comfortable rolling onto your edges and linking carved turns at reasonable speeds these are too much and will probably damped your experience with skiing. Buying a ski above your ability is good as it forces you to advance, but this is probably too far.
I'm not trying to insult you, sorry if it sounds that way, but there's nothing wrong with buying a pair more suited to your skill level before you get the pair you really want, plus they're often cheaper. Obviously you've read a bit to get those skis, so you know what you're sort of after, and one ski I'd probably recommend in the same vein is the Volkl Kendo, still versatile like you've listed, and still above your skill level, but such that you'll want to ski it to it's potential rather than be intimidated by it.

If you talk me through your thinking on the ones you've listed I can help choose what you might be after

Hello, no insults taken here, just happy to get some help. My rationale was based on a number of sites but mainly these two.
https://blisterreview.com/gear-reviews/best-skis-for-beginners-our-top-picks-2018-2019
https://www.switchbacktravel.com/7-skis-east-coast-hardpack

Seems like over and over the recommendation for heavier skiers AND the conditions I ski in, the 3 skis I picked out seemed to come up as a good choice for me. Also based on specs, it seems like they all range from intermediate to advanced. I want a ski that I can grow into, buy once cry once in terms of pricing.

The two biggest factors that seemed important to me is:
1) My weight, being over 230 lbs
2) Location, New England, icy groomed hard pack

This being said the first time I was out skiing I took a spill remembering the rental skis were wobbling very bad, twitchy is the best way I could describe it. I was hoping these skis would give me a bit more stability being around 88mm, and still be good for icy conditions. The top of my list is being narrowed down to the Blizzard Brahma. What would you recommend?

Thats interesting. I do get where they're going with that thought. Im currently not using poles but was taught with poles. My teacher had me with them on day 1. Now

New England is big and the snow quality varies.

I'd recommend entirely different skis for someone skiing at Stowe versus Wachusett versus Loon/Waterville/Cannon.

If you're towards the southern half of New England (South of Killington/Hanover NH) you'd want something between 70-85 in width underfoot for a beginner. The further south you go, the narrower I'd recommend. If you're north of it, anywhere from 80 to sub 100 underfoot would work.

In regards to length, at your size and level, sub 180cm for sure. I'd look for a 165-175mm in length. A 170 could be perfect since you will be able to "grow" into it potentially very quickly.

In regards to type? Well, again, it depends where you are. South of Killington/Hanover you'd be better off with a ski like the K2 Ikonic 84, Rossignol Experience 88 Ti, Atomic Vantage 86 c, etc. where the primary focus is carving rather than versatility. The wider the ski is the harder (more effort) it is to carve since the transition from edge to edge is so much slower. (I didn't include any sub-80mm width skis but almost all companies will have at least one if not more).

If you're north of that line, something with more of an all-mountain focus is better. This would include skis like the Brahma, Enforcer 93, Volkl Mantra, Sick Day 88, Pinnacle 95, Armada Invictus 99, Kendo, etc. These skis would not only work well on the hardpack days but when you do get fresh snow they won't be bogged down by it due to construction and design. BUT, that being said, you will sacrifice some of the edge hold that a more traditional carver will have. These skis are often good carvers but will struggle on the truly icy days.

Ski width doesn't have a lot to do with stability, length and material do. The longer a ski is the more stable it will be. That being said, there are caveats that come along with that statement. Skis with more metal tend to be damper (the skis vibrate less at speed) at the expense of playfulness (how easy it is to pop off things, "slarve" a turn, etc.). At your weight, you won't necessarily have issues bending the ski to make it turn (once you are capable of doing so) so a ski with metal is a good idea.

As I said above, a 170 could be perfect. As you demo skis, play around with length. Shorter skis are going to be easier to turn which is good for a beginner but as you progress and become a better and faster ski, they will be a hindrance (up to a point).

Now for poles, that seems to be up for debate. Some people think you can learn with them, some think you should learn without. For me personally, it depends on the persons ability. I need to watch the person ski to determine if they should be with or without them.

Given that your instructor said to go without them and their logic for why, I'd have to agree with them. At a certain point, poles are more of a hindrance than anything. It just gives you one more thing to think about and worry about. I coach U12s in a race program and whenever they complain about not using poles for a drill I just tell them "if poles were important it'd be called poling not skiing.".

But, at a certain point, they are important. But you can always find cheap poles at a later point. Unless you're racing at a high level, poles made out of aluminum (the higher level the better quality) will suffice.

**This post was edited on Jan 2nd 2019 at 11:40:18am

There are great skis out there that claim to do it all but you will soon understand that realistically people opt for two or three ski quivers. I understand your buy once approach but I wouldn't get too caught up in finding the "perfect" ski. Just find what works for you right now. I noticed your three options have a wide range of waist widths from 88 to 95. Have you developed a preference yet in what width you may want so others can help you narrow down your choices? An 88 will be far more responsive for edge to edge/carving while a 95 is as you would guess a bit slower edge to edge but will provide a bit more stability and a "surfy/playful" feel.

.MASSHOLE.New England is big and the snow quality varies.

I'd recommend entirely different skis for someone skiing at Stowe versus Wachusett versus Loon/Waterville/Cannon.

If you're towards the southern half of New England (South of Killington/Hanover NH) you'd want something between 70-85 in width underfoot for a beginner. The further south you go, the narrower I'd recommend. If you're north of it, anywhere from 80 to sub 100 underfoot would work.

In regards to length, at your size and level, sub 180cm for sure. I'd look for a 165-175mm in length. A 170 could be perfect since you will be able to "grow" into it potentially very quickly.

In regards to type? Well, again, it depends where you are. South of Killington/Hanover you'd be better off with a ski like the K2 Ikonic 84, Rossignol Experience 88 Ti, Atomic Vantage 86 c, etc. where the primary focus is carving rather than versatility. The wider the ski is the harder (more effort) it is to carve since the transition from edge to edge is so much slower. (I didn't include any sub-80mm width skis but almost all companies will have at least one if not more).

If you're north of that line, something with more of an all-mountain focus is better. This would include skis like the Brahma, Enforcer 93, Volkl Mantra, Sick Day 88, Pinnacle 95, Armada Invictus 99, Kendo, etc. These skis would not only work well on the hardpack days but when you do get fresh snow they won't be bogged down by it due to construction and design. BUT, that being said, you will sacrifice some of the edge hold that a more traditional carver will have. These skis are often good carvers but will struggle on the truly icy days.

Ski width doesn't have a lot to do with stability, length and material do. The longer a ski is the more stable it will be. That being said, there are caveats that come along with that statement. Skis with more metal tend to be damper (the skis vibrate less at speed) at the expense of playfulness (how easy it is to pop off things, "slarve" a turn, etc.). At your weight, you won't necessarily have issues bending the ski to make it turn (once you are capable of doing so) so a ski with metal is a good idea.

As I said above, a 170 could be perfect. As you demo skis, play around with length. Shorter skis are going to be easier to turn which is good for a beginner but as you progress and become a better and faster ski, they will be a hindrance (up to a point).

Now for poles, that seems to be up for debate. Some people think you can learn with them, some think you should learn without. For me personally, it depends on the persons ability. I need to watch the person ski to determine if they should be with or without them.

Given that your instructor said to go without them and their logic for why, I'd have to agree with them. At a certain point, poles are more of a hindrance than anything. It just gives you one more thing to think about and worry about. I coach U12s in a race program and whenever they complain about not using poles for a drill I just tell them "if poles were important it'd be called poling not skiing.".

But, at a certain point, they are important. But you can always find cheap poles at a later point. Unless you're racing at a high level, poles made out of aluminum (the higher level the better quality) will suffice.

**This post was edited on Jan 2nd 2019 at 11:40:18am

This is awesome, thanks neighbor.

I do plan on going further North, Killington and areas around North Conway. Planning something for this weekend, snow is in the forecast. Also plan on days around me in Western MA for quick runs. My plan as of right now, is to continue with my seasonal rental ski/binding the shop has setup for me, along with the new boots that I have just purchased. Later tonight, I am going to check out other skis mentioned throughout this thread. This weekend I will have the two pairs of skis, the seasonal rental and whatever WE decide moving forward. (For some reason my heart is leaning towards the Brahmas in 173). Yes, it could be too much ski but at least I have the rentals to fall back on this season.

SoAnGThere are great skis out there that claim to do it all but you will soon understand that realistically people opt for two or three ski quivers. I understand your buy once approach but I wouldn't get too caught up in finding the "perfect" ski. Just find what works for you right now. I noticed your three options have a wide range of waist widths from 88 to 95. Have you developed a preference yet in what width you may want so others can help you narrow down your choices? An 88 will be far more responsive for edge to edge/carving while a 95 is as you would guess a bit slower edge to edge but will provide a bit more stability and a "surfy/playful" feel.

Yes the width I am settling on is the 88. Fair to say it is a good middle ground for the climate I am in.

If western MA is your area, then I assume you will be visiting Butternut and Mount snow. Both are great but Mount snow has considerably more terrain to learn if you can get there. Also, they are having a great start of the season with better than usual conditions. I would call that my home mountain even though I'm from CT.

Probably a smaller ski like 165-170 max nothing bigger then 95ish underfoot.

Just want to say THANKS to all who have helped out. Had more to say yesterday, but the 5 post limit for new members at NS did not allow for it. Bummer.

After some serious thought, asking questions, evaluating and perfect-timing, I managed to find a smoking deal on some brand new 2018 Blizzard Brahma (173) with Tyrolia Attack 11 bindings. The bindings might be passed off to the wife, but for now it came as a package. As mentioned earlier, I still have the rentals for the remainder of the season, so I am hoping that with 2 pairs that are quite different from each other I will have what I need to get going. The shop will also let me swap to try out different brands as well.

Thanks again y'all, I'll be hanging out at these forums for a while asking Qs.