Any skiers here?

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rayonline

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#222706 24-Aug-2017 17:55

I have done some skiing in the past with a seasons pass, still learning to link my parallels. I can ski blues but not all blues. I have only used the cheapest rental on the mountain, I have my own poles and boots however. Occasionally I have used a rental store in National Park and they gave me a advanced Head Supershape - this was 2009. Since then I have only done the odd holiday skiing with a group of friends, many of which have not seen snow.

Maybe the cheapest ski's on the mountain are not that great. I went skiing with a group in 2014 and they were still renting out the same ski's in 2009. In 2009 they were likely not new as well.

I visited a store in Wellington and they sell stuff and rent out gear. I told them this story - I can do blues but not all blues. So they said I can do red and blues. I told them I have used the cheapest rentals on mountain and very occasionally I have used the Head Supershape. So they suggested me the cheapest $30 ski rental and then the Head Supershape iRally and the Atomic Vantage X 75 CTI. Ummm ... both of these are advanced ski's. They said if I wasn't going fast I prob wouldn't notice the difference between this and a intermediate level ski and something that I can grow into. I also asked if it is something that will hold back my skiing and they said no. Some other people have said I should get a intermediate level ski.

Just like your opinion on this. Cheers.

nzkc

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#1852104 24-Aug-2017 20:20

Disclaimer: I'm in the intermediate (or probably advanced intermediate) skier category. Can do all blues and tackle some blacks (tend to stay off them cause I seem to enjoy the blue runs more...probably an age thing!). I did the Peak to Powderkeg in my second season ever in a rush of blood to the head :) Was great fun and made me challenge myself

So you're looking to buy skis? If you head to the mountain a few places would let you try before you buy. There's often (weekends definitely) companies up on Mt Ruapehu who are showing off their wares for you to try. Why not give that a go? They are either at the Knoll Ridge cafe (Whakapapa side) or Giant Cafe (Turoa side).

As for the level of ski I think it's worth you looking at intermediate level skis. The ones suggested, particularly the Atomic ones, look about right (although I am by no means an expert here). Yes they may be "advanced" for you right now...won't take you too much effort to get up to their level I think. Getting a lesson is a worthwhile investment to advance your skill and technique.

As for rentals - I would definitely rent off the mountain. Equipment is newer and clearly better maintained. Plus the queues are WAY shorter! The people in those stores are a little more invested in your custom and will take the time to help you find the right fit for your equipment.

rayonline

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#1852108 24-Aug-2017 20:27

Thanks. Yes, (on the mountain) I mean, in 2014 I saw the exact same skies I used in 2009. I am keeping the option open to buy, yes, overtime the cost of rental do add up. Well in hindsight when I had the seasons pass I should had got a season rental for about 10x days cost instead of renting every day. I don't wanna buy a ski that is not right for me. If I try a ski, maybe a relatively newish demo ski, and if I like it, I can buy that at the end of the season for the next seasons.

I will take up a 1hr lesson there privately 1-1.

geocom

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#1852140 24-Aug-2017 21:22

Would consider myself an advanced skier. Have no problem with blacks but prefer blues generally because I like to go fast.

Would definitely say try skis before you do buy them.

I will say this though pay attention to the Rocker Line and the conditions you think you will ski on.

A short rocker line is better on groomed tracks as it will give you more surface area on the slope that will help you to slow down and will make you feel less like your skiing on marbles.

A longer rocker line will cause your skis not to dig in as much which is good for off piste where turning will be much easier and tighter.

Geoff E

frankv

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#1852223 25-Aug-2017 08:24

Every time you hire skis, you get something different, with dubious quality, maintenance and repairs, which makes it harder to improve. Personally, I don't think it matters much whether you ski on "intermediate" or "advanced" skis... maybe you'll learn a little slower on more advanced skis, but I doubt it will make much difference. What will *really* improve your skiing is doing a ski week, with a lesson each day.

Now's not the best time to buy skis... at the end of the season, there are always big-discount sales on ski gear.

(Black and blue skier (in more ways than one... I like the speed and the steep))

rayonline

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#1852755 25-Aug-2017 17:28

Cheers again. I probably represent most people - don't aspire to tackle black runs. I am more a blues cruiser and learn it more confidently and have a fun time and enjoy the cafeteria lol. I will give maybe 2 ski a rent and see how it goes. Won't be much skiing this year since I don't have a seasons pass.

blackjack17

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#1852811 25-Aug-2017 20:17

I have been skiing since I was 5 (now 36). The skis that you ski on do make a difference. Try a bunch of demos out if you can and be willing to spend a bit extra on skis that feel right. keep in mind you can keep using them for at least 10 years. Boots also make a difference. You will improve on better skis. Skis that are too advanced for you will hold you back.

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ScuL

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#1861382 9-Sep-2017 17:16

I've skied since I was 14. I still have all my equipment I brought with me from Europe which is between 15 and 20 years old... (no carvers but tall thin ones)..

Two weeks ago I drove down to Whakapapa to give it another go and managed to break my ski boot in half (lol, probably aged plastic).
Anyway when I went to the rental shop I got some "modern" boots and they started hurting my legs after 3 or 4 runs (probably a different fit to what I am used to).

Now I am looking around to buy a whole new set.. ski's, boots, the lot.
There's plenty of stores around here in Auckland but I am trying to do some online research as to what type of boot and ski to go to.

Haere taka mua, taka muri; kaua e wha.

afe66

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#1861392 9-Sep-2017 17:30

I'd just buy boots with molded inserts and a helmet then rent skis. Work your way through different options til you get an idea of what type of skier you are. (also try demo skis on field)

Note the model number and buy at the end of the year.

I bought boots 7 years ago and nice fitting boot are key. I'm not too sure that which type ski you get makes as much difference unless your pushing things.

I bought skis this year on a whim. Will need more than 25 days to break even and I'm a 7 days a year fellow.

Too cautious now as breaking something would not be good for work..