Your Complete Ski Hire Guide
If you’re renting ski equipment this winter, it pays to understand the the differences between the categories of ski hire on offer. Here we make it easy to understand the terms and technologies you need to know to get the right ski gear for you.
Our ski rental is categorised into three easy-to-understand levels; Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. This helps make it simple for you to select a ski or snowboard that best meets your needs. It’s important to take into consideration both your ability and the terrain you’re skiing or riding on when choosing equipment rental.
Our Levels of Ski Hire
Ski models shown here are examples of each grade, ski equipment offered will be of a similar standard to those shown.
Beginner Ski Hire
Great for a beginner skier looking to improve their skills or an intermediate building confidence. They are easy to use, stable and many of the skis in the range have an ‘auto-drive’ feature, which helps initiate turns more easily. Whilst many of the skis are new, there may be some up to two years old, but these skis are checked, maintained and kept in top condition.
Who are they good for? Beginners and intermediates looking to progress.
Who are they not good for? Technical skiers and those looking to go off-piste or racing.
Intermediate Ski Hire
In the intermediate level there are several types of high-end skis, for all kinds of intermediate and experienced skier; off-piste, all-mountain, slalom race skis, park skis, touring and telemark skis are all available here. Most of these skis will be new this year, but some technical skis with low usage could be on their second season. Again, these will have been rigorously tested to ensure that the performance is still as it was when it left the factory.
Who are they good for? Intermediates (3+ weeks) and experienced skiers, particularly those looking to work on a certain aspect of their skiing.
Who are they not good for? Absolute beginners.
Advanced Ski Hire
Always brand new for the season and feature the latest in ski technology. The difference to intermediate is that these skis are the newest and highest grade skis on the market in terms of quality, ability and style. You’ll find products from boutique manufacturers, trialling next year’s big breakthrough technology. The range features off-piste, all-mountain, slalom and park skis.
Who are they good for? Experienced skiers and specialist skiers looking to make the most of their holiday and stay at the forefront of the sport.
Who are they not good for? Beginners. You need experience to make the most of these skis.
It’s never too late to upgrade your ski hire
If you decide you’d like to mix it up and try a different ski during your holiday, speak with your Skiworld Resort Host. The difference between ski hire levels is often only around €20 – a small spend that could mean a massive improvement in your skiing experience.
Know Your Ski Gear
Make sure you get the most out of your experience by choosing a ski designed to perform in the conditions you ride in.
- Piste skis – Also referred to as carving skis, perfect for turning on groomed snow. They’re built with a narrower waist for quick edge changes and often with a shorter turn radius, for tighter, faster carves.
- Freestyle skis – Also referred to as park skis or twin tips, these are primarily designed for landing tricks. They are soft and forgiving, with the front and back tips turned up to allow for smooth landings facing forwards or back.
- All-mountain skis – A versatile, all-terrain ski, designed to handle both hard snow and powder, so great for all-rounders. All-mountain skis offer a wide selection of models, with a range of waists and camber profiles.
- Freeride skis – Designed for adventurous souls who want the freedom to explore the entire mountain. Slightly wider than all-mountain skis, they handle all types of snow conditions, giving good performance through powder, crud and freshly groomed runs. Great for riders that want the freedom to play off-piste and in varied terrain.
- Big mountain skis – Designed for the serious backcountry powder days, these skis are known for their wide body, which ensures you stay afloat in deep snow.
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