What to look for when buying ski and snowboard gear

By Peter Kray
Buying new ski or snowboard equipment is like learning how to ride a bicycle or getting a driver’s license, with a promise of freedom that can be as intoxicating as new snow.

Tommy Morsch, who supervises the snowboard school and manages the terrain park at Bristol Mountain, N.Y., and is a member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors Snowboard Team, said he often sees riders on improper equipment that doesn’t match their ability or personal style. He offers the following tips for anyone interested in buying new boots, new skis or a new snowboard this year:

Know your ability: Being clear about your ability, and sharing that with the shop person will help them offer the best equipment options for you.

Know what terrain you prefer: Ski and snowboard equipment is so well-designed that you can buy something just for the park and pipe, just for the groomed runs, or something that does just about everything well. Picking the right product for where you ride can help you improve more quickly, too.

Know your style: Whether you like to go fast, slow, in the trees, or under the chair on the wide open blue runs, being specific about your style can help the shop person give you product options tailor made for what you like to do.

Buy the best boot: Morsch says that the best boot is the one that fits best for you. Buying that “best” boot “can make all the difference in the world.”

Ski and snowboard technology is progressing at a rate on par with the great space race according to Craig Panarisi, Stratton Mountain vice president of operations and lifelong alpine and telemark skier and instructor. Each year, new and seasoned skiers and riders can anticipate new equipment — some with lighter materials and others with wider shapes and rocker technology- that will bring obvious improvements to their fun on the snow.

“When people hear about rocker, they often equate it with powder skiing and the Rockies, but it’s making a big difference here in the East as well,” said Panarisi. “It really smooths the transition between turns, without sacrificing any of that all-important edgehold.”

Buying ski and snowboard gear is the best way to ensure you’re properly outfitted for fun on the snow. Work with a shop to get equipment you’re using is custom fit for you.