If you are new to skiing, it is essential to have the appropriate gear. It is best to start by renting equipment if you are just getting started. Renting equipment allows you to try skiing without the commitment of buying equipment upfront. I rented skis for two seasons before purchasing my own, and it was a wise decision! But when you’re ready to make a purchase, it’s essential to choose wisely. That’s where our ski-buying guide comes in. Our guide covers everything from selecting skis based on your skill level and height to the terrain you’ll be skiing. In this guide, we have compiled advice from experienced skiers to help beginners find the best skis. Looking for easy skis to control and maneuver is important when starting out. Typically, these skis are shorter, lighter, and softer than advanced skis, making them easier to handle. Another great option is skis with a forgiving flex pattern and a balanced profile, as they help beginners feel more stable as they learn. Please look at the best skis we have selected in this guide.
Rossignol Experience 76
- Dimensions: Available in lengths from 136cm to 176cm.
- Tip/Waist/Tail (mm): 123/76/109
- Lengths (cm): 136, 144, 152, 160
- Radius (m): Varies by length: 136cm (9m), 144cm (10m), 152cm (12m), 160cm (13m)
- Waist Width (mm): 76
- Gender: Designed for women
- Turn Radius: Short for quick turns.
- Ability: Beginner to intermediate.
- Features: All Trail profile, Poplar Wood Core, fibreglass laminates, eco-friendly construction.
- Suitability: Versatile all-mountain skiing with bindings included.
The Rossignol Experience 76 skis are like a trusty friend for beginners hitting the slopes. My name is John. When I started skiing, I wanted something that wouldn’t make me feel like I was wrestling with the mountain. These skis are perfect for learning because they’re easy to control. Do you know when you’re trying to learn something new and want it to be simple? That’s what these skis are like. They help you turn and stop without feeling like you’re fighting against them. Plus, they’re stable on the smooth, groomed runs, where most beginners spend their time. They say, “Don’t worry, I got you,” every time you take a turn. Even when there’s a little fluffy snow off to the side, these skis can handle it easily. And they come in different sizes, so you can find the one that fits you just right. Taking care of them is easy, too – give them a little tune-up at the end of the season and store them nicely. So, if you’re starting and want skis that feel like they’re on your team, these are the ones for you.
Pros:
- They are a great pair for beginner to intermediate skiers.
- It helps build confidence on varied terrain.
- Easy to control and maneuver.
- Comfortable and lightweight.
- Excellent value for the price.
- Responsive and personable customer service.
Cons:
- Limited performance in deeper snow.
- Not ideal for advanced skiers.
- You can feel chatty at higher speeds.
- It’s not designed for freestyle or switch skiing.
- May struggle with charging through variable snow.
- White tips appear more grey in person.
Rossignol Experience W 78 Ca Skis
- Dimensions: 125-76-111mm
- Turn Radius: Around 13 meters
- Ability: Beginner to Intermediate
- Features: All Trail Profile, Poplar Wood Core, Drive Tip Solution
- Suitability: Ideal for all-mountain skiing with included Xpress 10 GW Bindings
One of my friends, William, tried out the Rossignol Experience 78 CA Skis as a beginner skier, and he found them to be a fantastic choice for starting on the slopes. He appreciated how forgiving they were, especially as he was learning the basics of skiing. With these skis, he felt more confident in his ability to turn and stop, and he found the flex pattern to be just right for easy maneuverability. As he progressed, he noticed that the Experience 78 CA handled groomed runs with stability, allowing him to make comfortable carved turns. The slightly wider platform stood out to William than some other beginner skis, which gave him a bit more float in light powder snow. He enjoyed the versatility this provided, allowing him to explore off-piste terrain easily. The Drive Tip Solution technology also made a noticeable difference for William, as it helped dampen vibrations and provided added stability, particularly at slower speeds. Overall, William was impressed with the quality and affordability of these skis, noting that they held up well against bumps and falls. He found them user-friendly and forgiving, giving him the confidence to continue improving his skiing skills.
Pros:
- Easy to mount bindings without drilling
- Responsive and easy to use for beginners and advanced beginners
- Good quality ski from Rossignol
- Quick and efficient shipping process
- Great value for the price
Cons :
- Less stable at high speeds due to soft flex.
- A 78mm waist width offers less stability for the hardpack.
- It’s not ideal for deep powder skiing.
- Limited terrain versatility, best for groomed runs.
- It can feel choppy in bumpy terrain.
Blizzard Thunderbird SP 7.2 Skis + TLT 10 Bindings
- Dimensions: 153-174cm length, 119-121mm tip, 72mm waist, 102-104mm tail
- Turn Radius: Short – 12m to 15m
- Ability: Beginner-Intermediate
- Features: Full Camber, Composite/Wood Core, Composite Sidewall, TLT 10 Bindings (DIN 3-10), Flat Tail
- Suitability: Carving, All-Mountain
The Blizzard Thunderbird SP 7.2 ski is among the best choices for starting on the slopes. It’s made to help beginners feel comfortable as they learn. This ski stands out because it’s gentle and easy to handle. With its soft front end and narrow width of 72 millimetres, the Thunderbird is very simple to maneuver, especially for beginners. Blizzard ensures it’s light enough so it’s easy for beginners to turn and move around, even when they’re going slow. The ski is designed to be user-friendly, so beginners will feel safe when skiing. While it might not be as fancy as some other skis, it’s a great choice for beginners who want to start learning and feeling confident on the slopes. Overall, with its forgiving design and beginner-friendly features, the Blizzard Thunderbird SP 7.2 is a top pick for anyone new to skiing.
Pros:
- Easy to handle: Great for beginners.
- Comfortable progression: Makes learning fun.
- Lightweight: Easy to carry.
- Beginner-friendly design: Made for starters.
- Confidence-building: Boosts skills.
Cons:
- Moderate high-speed performance: Not for aggressive skiing.
- Stability decreases at high speeds: Best for moderate cruising.
- Average width: Not super nimble.
- Durability depends on care: Recreational use only.
K2 Mindbender 85 Skis:
Very forgiving, easy to turn, good value. (Unisex)
- Dimensions: 130-85-113mm
- Turn Radius: 13.3m
- Ability Level: Beginner to intermediate
- Features: Forgiving flex, easy turning
- Suitability: Ideal for learners, light powder, and variable terrain
In 2024, my friend Dylan Cassell and I hit the slopes with the K2 Mindbender 85 skis, seeking adventure beyond the usual trails. These skis are perfect for beginner to lower intermediate skiers like us who want to explore off-piste terrain. They’re easy to maneuver and have a forgiving flex, which is great for navigating through trees and uncut areas. Their lightweight design and soft flex allow quick turns at slower speeds, making skiing easier and less tiring. However, we noticed that bigger or more aggressive skiers might feel less stable at higher speeds as they get better at skiing. Still, the K2 Mindbender 85 skis are a good choice for beginners who want to improve their skills while having fun on different terrain.
We especially like the narrowest 85 model for skiing on soft snow. It has more flotation and feels comfortable on groomed slopes compared to wider skis in the Mindbender line. While they might not turn as quickly for beginners, they’re smooth and easy to use on green and blue runs.
The K2 Mindbender 85 skis are made for beginners who want to ease into skiing. They’re good for skiing on groomed runs, learning to carve, and getting better at skiing. These skis are versatile, meaning they can be used on different types of terrain. They’re easy to turn because they have a flexible design and a special shape that helps with turning.
Likes:
- A fun exploration of off-piste terrain.
- Easy learning with forgiving flex.
- Lightweight and nimble.
- Smooth on groomed slopes.
- Great for teaching skiing.
- It is surprisingly versatile for long turns and jumps.
- It’s a thrilling ride, especially in powder.
- Boosts confidence on tough terrain.
- Affordable enjoyment.
Dislikes:
- Durability concerns.
- Stability issues at higher speeds.
- Slower directional changes.
- It is not suitable for larger or more aggressive skiers.
Volkl M6 Mantra Skis
- Ability Level: Beginner to advanced
- Function/Uses: All-mountain skiing
- Features: Rocker profile, stable at speed, Titanal frame, carbon tips, full sidewall, P-Tex base
- Size & Dimensions: Lengths 163cm to 191cm, waist width 96mm
When you’re out on the slopes, whether you’re just starting or a seasoned pro, the Volkl M6 Mantra ski is a reliable choice for your adventures. It’s designed to handle snow conditions and terrain, from groomed trails to off-piste challenges like bumps and crud. With features like the Tailored Titanal Frame and Tailored Carbon Tip Technologies, these skis offer stability and responsiveness, making your skiing experience smooth and enjoyable. The 3D Radius Technology also ensures adaptability to different turn radii, catering to various skiing styles. With a waist width of 96 millimetres, these skis strike a good balance between flotation in powder and agility on groomed runs, and they come in different lengths to fit you perfectly. To keep your skis in top condition, remember to wipe off any snow or moisture after each use and store them in a cool, dry place. Regular check-ups for damage and professional tuning or waxing will help maintain their performance season after season. Whether you’re carving turns or exploring new terrain, the Volkl M6 Mantra ski is there to support your skiing journey.
Pros:
- Excellent carving ability at any speed.
- Versatile performance on ice, hardpack, bumps, and powder.
- Stable and responsive, even at high speeds.
- Nimble for navigating moguls.
- Solid edges for stability on groomers and powder.
- Best ski for versatility and performance.
Cons:
- Heavier than desired for some users.
- It is not ideal for beginners due to stiffness.
- Bumps may be challenging.
- Topping titanate may delaminate.
- Turning characteristics may require adjustment.
Salomon QST 92 (Men’s) & Salomon QST Lux 92 (Women’s)
- Dimensions:
- (Women): 152 cm, 160 cm, 168 cm;
- (Men): 152 cm, 160 cm, 168 cm, 176 cm, 184 cm.
- Turn Radius: W: 13m; M: 14m.
- Ability: Beginner to Intermediate.
- Features: Soft Flex, Camber/Rocker, Twin Tip, Carbon Backbone, Poplar Core.
- Suitability: Versatile, Forgiving, playful.
When considering the Salomon QST 92 and QST Lux 92 skis, it’s evident that each component has been carefully crafted to offer a superior skiing experience. From their meticulously designed dimensions to their thoughtfully engineered features, these skis embody quality at every turn. The dimensions, tailored to various lengths and widths, ensure an optimal fit for skiers of different sizes and preferences, promoting stability and control on the slopes. The turn radius, meticulously calculated for each length, also facilitates agile maneuverability, allowing skiers to navigate tight turns easily. The soft flex, combined with the camber underfoot and rocker tip and tail, perfectly balances forgiveness and responsiveness, enabling skiers to tackle diverse terrain confidently.
Moreover, including a partial twin tip enhances the skis’ versatility, enabling playful maneuvers and switch skiing. With features like the C/FX Carbon Backbone & Double Sidewalls and the Poplar Wood Core, these skis boast exceptional durability and performance, ensuring countless hours of enjoyment on the mountain. Overall, the Salomon QST 92 and QST Lux 92 skis represent a pinnacle of quality and innovation, offering skiers a reliable and rewarding skiing experience from the moment they hit the snow.
Likes:
- Excellent powder performance.
- Forgiving flex aids beginners.
- Playful and fun to ski on.
- Competitive pricing offers value.
- Lightweight construction enhances maneuverability.
- Ideal for exploring the mountain.
- Easy turning capabilities.
Dislikes:
- Chatter at high speeds on hardpack.
- Not suited for aggressive skiers.
- Concerns about durability.
- Soft flex compromises stability.
- It’s better for a relaxed skiing style.
- Limited performance on groomers.
- It’s not optimal for fast carving.
Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis – Women’s 2024
- Dimensions: 147cm to 177cm.
- Turn Radius: 11m to 16m.
- Ability: Intermediate to advanced.
- Features: Rocker Camber Rocker, TrueBlend W.S.D. Core, carbon-reinforced fiberglass, Sandwich Compound Sidewall.
- Suitability: Designed for women skiers, versatile across terrains.
The Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are great for beginners like you who want to get better at skiing. They come in different sizes, so you can pick the one that fits you best. These skis help you learn because they’re easy to turn and control. When you’re on groomed slopes, they carve nicely, making learning how to turn smoothly easier. They’re not just for groomed slopes, though – they work well in softer snow, too. Even though they’re not made specifically for deep powder, they can handle it okay, which means you can explore different mountain parts without feeling too nervous. These skis also have some special features, like a mix of lightweight woods that make them easy to handle and strong materials that help you stay stable and in control. Plus, they’re made with input from other women skiers, designed to fit your needs. Overall, the Blizzard Black Pearl 88 Skis are a good choice for beginners who want easy skis to use and help them improve their skills on the slopes.
Likes:
- Excellent for carving groomed runs.
- Beginner-friendly maneuverability.
- Performs well in variable snow conditions.
- Lightweight construction reduces fatigue.
- Versatile for exploring different terrain.
- Offers stability in choppy/icy conditions.
Dislikes:
- It may feel flimsy for advanced skiers.
- It’s not ideal for aggressive skiing.
- Limited performance on deep powder or groomers.
- Tricky sizing may cause discomfort.
- Heavy weight may not suit all preferences.
- It is challenging to control at high speeds or in deep powder.
Dynastar MyBelle 7 FS Skis
- Dimensions: 120-125mm tip, 73-75mm waist, 104-108mm tail.
- Turn Radius: Around 13-15 meters.
- Ability: Best for intermediates, okay for beginners.
- Features: Progressive sidecut, full wood core, tip and tail rocker, fluid binding system.
- Suitability: Great for groomed runs, beginners use with caution.
The Dynastar MyBelle 7 FS skis are perfect for intermediate women skiers but can also work well for beginners eager to learn. With a forgiving design, they help you gain confidence on the slopes. Their dimensions, with a wider tip and tail for easier turning and a progressive sidecut, make them user-friendly, especially for those new to skiing. The full wood core provides stability and comfort, ensuring a smoother ride for beginners and intermediates. Plus, the tip and tail rocker prevent catching on rough terrain, a common issue for beginners. The fluid binding system makes stepping into the skis a breeze. While they excel on groomed runs, beginners can also use them with caution. However, beginners may find the length and flex slightly challenging, so it’s essential to consider these factors. Overall, the Dynastar MyBelle 7 FS skis offer a great balance of performance and ease of use for beginners looking to explore groomed slopes and progress quickly in their skiing journey.
Pros:
- Progressive side for easier turns.
- Full wood core for stability.
- Tip/tail rocker reduces edge hooking.
- Forgiving design for comfort.
- Suitable for groomed runs.
Cons:
- It might be too long for beginners.
- Intermediate flex might feel stiff.
- Not ideal for off-piste skiing.
- It’s not perfect for true beginners.
- Limited versatility beyond groomed runs.
Snowfeet Skiboards Snowblades Short Mini Skis
- Dimensions: 99 cm length, 11.5-8.5-11 cm (Tip/Waist/Tail Width), 6 m Turn Radius
- Turn Radius: 6 meters
- Ability: Suitable for all levels
- Features: Lightweight, responsive, sustainable wood core, twin tips
- Suitability: Ideal for downhill skiing, for all ages, and great for moguls and tricks.
One of my friends, Eric, discovered the joy of skiing with Skiboards, and he couldn’t be happier with his experience. Eric found that skiboards are an excellent choice for beginners because of their lightweight design, making them easy to carry and maneuver on the slopes. He mentioned how much easier it was to learn to carve with skiboards than traditional long skis, allowing him to quickly adapt to the sport and gain confidence with each run. Eric also appreciated the versatility of skiboards, as they allowed him to explore different skiing styles and techniques easily. Overall, Eric believes that skiboards offer a fun and accessible option for beginners looking to enjoy the thrill of skiing without the challenges of longer skis. With their lightweight construction and easy learning curve, skimboards provide a fantastic opportunity for newcomers like Eric to hit the slopes and experience the excitement of skiing firsthand.
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners with an easy learning curve
- Lightweight and maneuverable, it is ideal for new skiers
- Exciting for jumps and tricks, adding fun to the skiing experience
- It offers freedom and mobility on the slopes
- Convenient for transportation, easy to carry around
Cons:
- Beginners accustomed to longer skis may face initial challenges
- Stability may be lacking in certain types of terrain
- Not suitable for deep powder conditions
- Adjustment period required for adapting to skiboard style
- Limited support for advanced skiing techniques
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right skis for beginners is essential for enjoying your time on the slopes. Whether you’re renting or buying, taking your time and making an informed decision is important. Remember, skiing is about having fun and enjoying the journey of learning and improving your skills. With the right equipment, you can feel confident and comfortable as you progress your skiing journey. So, whether you’re gliding down the mountain for the first time or mastering more challenging terrain, choose skis that fit perfectly and embrace the adventure ahead. Happy skiing!
