The Fischer RC4 Superrace Jr is an incredible ski that will let the smallest skiers take on the slopes in incredible racing fashion.  These skis are similar to the Fischer Worldcup SC, except they have a softer flex.  Other skiers compare the Superrace with the Fischer Competition ski, which is no longer manufactured.  No matter how you slice it, intermediate through advanced skiers will enjoy this ski.

Specs for the Fischer RC4 Superrace Jr

Here are the basic specs for the Fischer RC4 Superrace Jr:

• 11 m radius
• Sidecut 110 – 68 – 95
• Available in lengths 140, 150, and 160
• Comes with a choice of either RC4 Z9 FJ7 Juniorrail Race binding
• Sidewall sandwich construction for durability, strength, and stability
• Wood core
• Traditional camber rocker

These skis put less weight in the tip and tail so that turning is much easier and the skier enjoys greater control over the skis.  Kids who love hitting the slopes all the time and who are thinking about professional skiing will definitely love these skis.

Whether you are skiing on hard slopes or softer ones, these skis will make the trip down the mountain a breeze.

Why Skiers will Love the Fischer RC4 Superrace Jr

The Superrace skis are made almost entirely for on-piste riding, although they will work somewhat off the piste.  These junior race skis will give kids the action of racing while also providing a safe ride for intermediate to advanced skiers.

The air carbon cores are extremely lightweight and strong.  Handling and performance is a breeze with these skis, which are very easy to maneuver, even on ice.  Skiers will love the fast edging and the direct power transfer.

These skis are updated for the 2012 ski season, although it is rather easy to find both new and used versions of these skis.  These really are the perfect skis for any child who is serious about skiing and really wants to consider racing at some point in his or her life.

The Fischer RC4Superrace Jr and the Fischer Competition Ski

It is easy to see why so many people compare the Superrace Jr to the Competition Jr, which is no longer being made.

Here are the specs on the RC4 Competition Jr from Fischer.  These are from the 2010 – 2011 ski season.

• 11 m radius
• Sidecut 108 – 66 – 93
• Available in lengths 120,  130, 140, 150, and 160
• Optional RC4 Z9 binding can be included.

The RC4 Competition skis are also for children who are intermediate to advanced in their level of skiing.  They are also made for racing, just like the Superrace skis.  These skis can still be bought new in a few places, but usually they are available used on various websites.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, it is important to check out a ski buyer’s guide so that you can choose the right equipment when skiing.  Your choice will depend on many different things such as skill level, age, gender, and location.  Learning about the different factors involved is very important to ensuring that your skiing experience is both fun and safe.

Ski Buyer’s Guide: Types of Skis

First of all, do your research and learn about the different types of skis.  The two classes of skis are Alpine and Nordic.   Alpine skis have a fixed boot and are for downhill skiing.

On Nordic skis, the heel of the boot releases from the binding; these are mainly for cross-country skiing.  Alpine skis include:

• All Mountain skis, so named because they can be used in various conditions on various terrains.  There are different types of all mountains for men, women, and children.
• Powder skis are designed for areas that see a lot of snow storms.  They can glide atop fresh snow without sinking in.
• Twin Tip skis have curved tips at both ends.  Twin tips were originally used for free styling and jumping.
• Racing skis are specifically designed to race and should only be used for this purpose.

Ski Buyer’s Guide: Skill Level

Once you know what type of ski you want, you need to examine your ability.  Every type of ski has a subset of skis that corresponds to a skill level.  It is best to choose a ski that not only suits your abilities, but one that can allow you to improve.  The six levels of skiing are:

• Beginner: Those who are just starting out or have skied very little.
• Advanced Beginner: Beginners who have mastered the green courses and are moving on to the blue runs.
• Intermediate: Skiers who are comfortable on the blue runs.
• Advanced Intermediate:  These skiers can move on to black diamond courses and are trying other terrains.
• Advanced:  The skier is comfortable with black diamond courses and different terrains.
• Expert: Skiers can navigate all terrains comfortably.

Make sure that you are honest with yourself about your skiing ability.  If you choose a ski that is ranked for a much higher ability, it will only hinder you and keep you from steering with ease.

Ski Length

The length of the ski depends on many factors such as height, weight, and ability.   The rule of thumb for skill level and length is that beginner’s skis should reach their chin, intermediate’s skis should reach their nose, and advanced should come to or above their forehead.

However, if you are heavy, you should go with a longer ski and lighter people with shorter skis.  If you want to ski fast and make wide turns, a longer ski is best.  Conversely, a shorter ski is ideal for sharp turns and a slower pace.

Ultimately, you must choose a length with which you are comfortable.  Being comfortable in your skis is imperative to growing in your ability and enjoying your runs.

Once you take all of these factors into consideration, look at the different brands of skis.  Consider renting or demoing skis in which you are interested before purchasing them to ensure that you get the fit and handling you want.

Think of it like test driving a car.  The more you know before you buy, the better your chance of being pleased with your purchase and hitting the slopes with confidence.

The Fischer Koa 78 with V9 Railflex is a women’s ski that’s perfect for the expert skier who wants to be able to go anywhere on the mountain.  The versatility and durability of these skis make them a great buy for any woman who really wants to enjoy all of the surfaces on the mountain rather than just stick to the groomed paths.

The 2012 model of these skis hasn’t changed much since the 2011 model, although a few very subtle differences might make the ride noticeable to skiers who can tell the difference in various types of skis.

The Basics about the Fischer Koa 78

Here are the stats about these skis:

• 16 m radius
• 121 – 78 – 107 sidecut
• Available in lengths 147, 154, 161, 168
• Camber rocker
• Flat tail
• 78 mm waist
• 122 mm tip width
• 107 mm tail width

Why Expert Skiers will Love the Fischer Koa 78

Women looking to ski on both the piste and the powder will definitely be interested in the Koa 78 skis because they offer a very balanced performance.  The Koa 78 skis feature a sandwich wood core design.  The cores infuse air carbon and use a sandwich sidewall construction of wood and ABS sidewalls.  This helps with flex and rebound.

For dynamic grip control, the Koa 78 skis use triple-cut ski core elements in both the tail and shovel sections.  This keeps you in contact with the ground constantly so you can grip the slopes easily no matter what kind of snow you are skiing on.

The part of the ski that’s in contact with the ground is shorter than it is with some skis, which  means that turning is much easier.  Maneuvering requires a lot less effort, making it possible to land some incredible turns with ease.

The Railflex integration system on these skis makes them much narrower and lighter than skis that are made for both men and women.  The sole only goes up to 330 mm rather than 360 mm.

Other Features of the Fischer Koa 78

These skis feature a wood core and full sidewall construction, making it extremely lightweight. In spite of the light weight, these skis have an incredible grip, making them very easy to control.

They also feature an all-mountain rocker design, which makes short radius turns feel silky smooth.  Skiers can easily go through bumps and crud while hooking in high speed turns on the groomers.

There are three different rockers available on this ski, including the All Mountain rocker, Freeski rocker, and Tour rocker.  With all these options and features, the Koa 78 skis certainly are a good option for the expert female skier.  They are definitely worth a serious look for the 2012 ski season.

If you’re an advanced or expert skier looking for an all-mountain ski, you might want to check out the Fischer Motive 80 with C-Line Z13 Flowflex.  This ski is for both men and women, and it offers a number of features any skier would enjoy.

The Basics on the Fischer Motive 80 Skis

Here are the basic stats on the Fischer Motive 80 Ski:

• 17 m radius
• 80 mm waist
• Sidecut of 122 – 80 – 110
• Available in lengths 161, 168, 175, and 182
• Sandwich sidewall construction
• Wood core
• RSX12 Powerrail Wide 88 binding included

Why Skiers will Love the Fischer Motive 80

Advanced and expert skiers will be interested in the Fischer Motive 80 if they like to ski on all kinds of surfaces.  It provides a smooth ride at both fast and slower speeds and also off-path and on more groomed slopes.

The air carbon cores are very lightweight and strong.  They’re made of the same material used in the aerospace industry.  Pair a wood core with ABS sidewalls in a sandwich construction, and you’ve got the perfect flex and rebound.

These skis also provide extra grip so that you have more control over them.  They make it very easy to maneuver and are perfect for off-path skiing.  However, you can still use them on groomed slopes.  It really is a matter of when and where you intend to ski.  Every skier has his or her own style, and the versatility of these skis means that you can hit any slope any time because they can handle pretty much anything you throw at them.

Other Features of the Fischer Motive 80 Skis

The wood core is vertically laminated, and the sidewall construction has a full carbon fiber jacket.  This helps to increase torsional stiffness.  Additionally, there are three different rockers available on these skis, including an all mountain rocker, freeski rocker, and tour rocker.

The Flowflex technology is an adjustable binding suspension plate, which allows you to adjust flex and rebound according to your weight, the way you like to ski, and the condition of the slope you are skiing on.  One of the best thing about the Fischer Motive 80 skis is how much speed they allow the skier.  This is one of the reasons these skis are recommended only for advanced or expert skiers.  It is less aggressive than the Motive 84 ski, but it still offers plenty of flexibility and ease when it comes to maneuvering around obstacles.

Versatility and durability are both very important to expert skiers, and this model certainly seems to have both.  They do seem to be a good buy if you want to avoid lugging around different skis for different types of slopes and conditions.

Expert skiers who do really want an all-around ski should check out the Fischer Maven skis.  The Maven is a brand new set of skis for 2012, so skiers will feel a brand new experience with these skis.

Measuring up to 50 percent on-piste and 50 percent off, these versatile skis are even friendlier to all types of paths than other all-around skis.  These twin tip skis make for a thrilling freeski ride that anyone who loves to hit the slopes will really enjoy.

So far there are not a lot of reviews yet because of how new this ski is, but if it lives up to all of its promises, then expert skiers will definitely want to get their hands (and feet) on a set of these.

These skis are unisex, which means that they can be used by both men and women, so anyone can take full advantage of everything they have to offer.

The Basics on the Fischer Maven Skis

Here are the specs for the 2012 model of the Fischer Maven skis:

• 20 m radius
• Sidecut 119 – 88 – 112
• Available in lengths 160, 170, and 180
• All mountain, freeski, and tour rockers available
• 88 mm waist
• Traditional camber

Why Skiers will Love this Year’s Fischer Maven Skis

The Fischer Maven skis are perfect for advanced skiers who really do like to explore the entire mountain rather than stick to the more groomed paths.  Turning is much easier with these skis because the contact length of the ski is shorter.

The Maven has a wood core and ABS sidewalls merged in a sandwich construction.  This makes for the right amount of rebound and more balanced flex.  The design makes these skis work perfectly on both powder and park.

Other Features of the Fischer Maven Skis

Fischer recommends the X11 Wide 90 binding for use with these skis.  The traditional camber makes for a very smooth ride on all types of snow and terrains.  While many skis can be used on different parts of the mountain, the Maven is one of the few sets that can truly stand up to all sides of the mountain because they are made to perform the same on groomed and un-groomed slopes.

Most all-mountain skis are 70 – 30 for on or off-piste, but these skis are 50 – 50, which means that they are actually made for the skier who really will take the time to enjoy all types of snow and terrains.  If you are on the slopes all the time in different kinds of weather, the Fischer Maven model is definitely one you should consider for the 2012 ski year.

In general, these skis do seem like they would be an excellent buy.

Hammerhead bindings are among the best on the market for any skier who likes to enjoy the back country.  They provide a solid ride on just about any ski you use them on, so they are extremely versatile.  Many skiers turn to these bindings for a reliable fit, especially when they want a binding that works with a number of different skis.

The Basic Stats of the Hammerhead Bindings

Of course no informed skier will buy any kind of bindings without knowing the basic statistics on them because they can make or break any ski experience.  Here are the basic stats of the Hammerhead bindings:

• Five positions for the cable guides
• Plastic boots
• 2000 pound test cable attachment
• More than two inches of spring travel
• One size fits all with easy adjustment
• Comes with a 2 year warranty
• Weighs 1417 grams
• Made for backcountry skiing
• Manufacturer: Twenty Two

One thing you will notice from all of these stats is that they are very versatile.  They work with almost any brand of skis on the market, so they make sense for pretty much anyone who loves to enjoy the back country.

Features of the Hammerhead Bindings

There are many reasons that so many skiers appreciate the Hammerhead bindings, and the long list of features is probably why.  Both men and women can use these bindings, which are extremely lightweight and flexible.

Skiers love the fact that there are no side cables or wires, which can make other bindings break far more easily than these.  These bindings are also very unusual because they accommodate so many different sizes of boots, unlike other bindings which must be ordered in very specific sizes.

These bindings have five different pivot point settings, so any skier can easily customize them to exactly their skill level and the type of terrain they enjoy skiing.

Advantages of the Hammerhead Bindings

Skiers who use this set of bindings say they offer extremely good control and are perfect for skiers of all levels because they can be fine-tuned according to the skier’s skill level.  The newer models also incorporate a unique heel system with a spring loaded piece, which makes it easy to flip up the climbing bar without having to think about it.

The versatility of this binding makes it perform extremely well in all conditions.  It is also extremely durable, which means you will have these bindings for a very long time.

Most skiers who use the Hammerhead bindings don’t have anything bad to say about them.  They are simply a great choice for almost any skier.  The spring-loaded heel is more convenient than similar models, and the durability factor seems to be off the charts with this particular product.

Skiers who are looking for performance should check out the Fischer Progressor line of skis.  These skis are made for the intermediate through expert levels of skiers.  There are three models in the Fischer Progressor line.

The 700 and 800 models are for intermediate skiers, while the 900 is made entirely for advanced or expert skiers.  There are also some slight variations in the way each of the three models is made, creating a very specific type of ride for various kinds of skiers.

Specs and Details on the Fischer Progressor 900

The Progressor 900 skis are made almost entirely for on-piste skiing, although they can handle alright off piste as well.  New for 2012 is the newly developed front and rear dual radius amplifier, which makes these skis more stable and allows for easier power transfer.  Turning is even more dynamic than it was with earlier versions of these skis, and some of the technology used in the 900 model comes from racing, so you know it will be a fast ride.

Here are the basic specs on the Progressor 900:

• 13 / 17 m radius
• Sidecut 121 – 75 – 104
• Available in sizes 160, 165, 170, 175, and 180
• Titanium and air carbon core
• ABS sidewalls with wood core, sandwich construction
• Flowflex 2.0 technology makes these skis 30 percent lighter
• Increased performance due to metal reinforcement

Specs and Details on the Fischer Progressor 800

The Progressor 800 skis take skiing down just a notch for intermediate skiers.  This model uses Powerrail rather than Flowflex technology.  Rather than racing features, these skis incorporate materials used in the aerospace industry.

Skiers can hit up both piste types, although these skis are slightly geared toward on-piste skiing.  A dual radius system and amplifier makes maneuvering very easy with this model.

Here are the basic specs on the Progressor 800:

• 12 / 15 m radius
• Sidecut 122 – 74 – 103
• Available in lengths 150, 155, 160, 165, 170, and 175
• ABS sidewalls with wood core, sandwich construction
• Powerrail technology takes Railflex a step further, making these skis wider and lower so power transfer is easier
• Tool-free adjustment
• Increased performance due to metal reinforcement

Specs and Details on the Fischer Progressor 700

The Fischer Progressor 700 skis also use Powerrail technology, and they are a step below the 800 model in terms of experience levels, although they do still fall in the intermediate range of skiers.  Like the 800, they are about 70 percent on-piste and 30 percent off-piste, so they are quite versatile in terms of where they will work.

Here are the basic specs on the Progressor 700:

• 14 / 17 m radius
• Sidecut 120 – 73 – 103
• Available in lengths 150, 155, 160, 165, 170, and 175
• Sidewall construction for strength, stability, and durability
• Powerrail technology takes Railflex a step further, making these skis wider and lower so power transfer is easier
• Increased performance due to metal reinforcement

Skiing is one of the most adventurous and thrilling recreational activities you can choose, but you need a ski buying guide to make sure that you get everything you need before you hit the slopes this season.  You’ll need skis, bindings, poles, gloves, and more, so take a look at this ski buying guide for some help.

Ski Buying Guide: Skis

The first thing you should think about when you are getting ready for ski season is what kind of skiing you will be doing.  There are two basic classes of skis.  Alpine skis are for downhill skiing, and Nordic skis are for cross-country skiing.  Within the Alpine class, you have:

• All Mountain skis – used on all parts of the mountain and in all types of terrains and snows.
• Powder skis – perfect for freshly fallen snow because they provide flotation in light, fluffy snow.
• Twin Tip skis – curved tips at both ends are usually used for free styling and jumping.
• Racing skis – designed for speed and agility.

Ski Buying Guide: Bindings and Poles

You should also remember to check your bindings before heading out.  They are the most important safety feature in your skiing activity. Ski bindings have a release mechanism that makes sure that you do not stay attached to your skis if an accident happens.

They release when the pressure reaches a predefined level. There should be at least a 55 mm distance from the surface of the bottom of the skis and the sole of the ski boot.

The type of bindings you need will vary greatly with the kind of skies you buy.  Most ski manufacturers recommend a binding with a particular set of skis.  A few skis come with bindings, but most do not.

Of course ski poles add stability while you are moving along at high speeds during alpine skiing. A regular ski pole should be straight and have plastic guards which cover the knuckles.  Once again, the type of pole you choose will vary according to the skies you buy, but some of the more popular ones include the Goode Composite Poles and the K2 6 Karat Ski Poles.

Ski Buying Guide: Goggles, Gloves, and Suits

Of course your attire must also be kept up to date when you are heading out to the slopes.  Goggles will help keep your field of vision clear as you’re flying down the slope.  Two of the more popular kinds are both made by Smith: the Smith I/O Interchangeable Optics Spherical Series Goggles with Mirror Lens and the Smith Prodigy Goggles.

Gloves are also important, and you should make sure that you buy a pair that fits well.  Suiting up will keep you stylish and also protect your body while on the slopes.  Just make sure that the suit you buy not only fits well, but also makes it very easy for you to move around and adjust while skiing down the slope.

Anyone serious about backcountry skiing understands the importance of a binding that offers both down-hill performance and maneuverability, and NTN bindings are a great possibility.  The New Telemark Norm (NTN) bindings by Rottefella are a perfect solution to skiers who want flexibility.

Features of NTN Bindings

Since telemark skiing is marked by its turns, bindings need to be flexible and powerful while providing necessary stability and control.  Not only do the NTN bindings provide power, forward flex, and edge control, they are also easy to get into.  No matter your skill level, NTN bindings come with customizable power tubes to suit your needs.  NTN bindings feature:

• 5 Power Tube spring settings for style and/or preference
• Adjustable binding position up to 15 mm along the mounting plate
• Ability to mount to multiple sets of skis with the purchase of extra plates
• Integrated ski brake
• Free pivot function
• Sideways release system

NTN vs. 75 mm Bindings

Since the advent of Telemark skiing, manufacturers have been searching for a binding that would combine stability and flexibility and allow skiers to move fluidly.  While 75 mm bindings are functional, they limit skiers; they are neutral and do not drive pressure forward and give the control necessary for hard edges.  NTN bindings are versatile.  Depending on which springs you use, you can keep the feel of the neutral pin bindings or actively engage for more control.  All of this adds up to superior performance.

Also NTN bindings are simple and straightforward.  You don’t have to bend over to get into them.  With 75mm bindings, you must strap into them; when you’re dressed for skiing, this may not be an easy task.  NTN’s system provides an easy way to just click in and go without the hassle of old bindings.

What Users Say About NTN Bindings

NTN bindings work with boots designed specifically for them, but they can be used with multiple sizes and sets of skis.  Because of the adjustability and the Power Tube system, they are suitable for skiers of all sizes and skill levels.  One of the best features of the NTN bindings, according to users, is its releasability and ease of use.  Owners who have bought NTN state that they could never go back to other bindings because NTN suits their needs so well.

Reviewers state that NTN bindings are smooth, flexible, and provide power and control.  The transfer of energy makes turns more precise and powerful.  One reviewer also reported that there is less build up of snow underneath the forefoot than with other Tele bindings.

The only drawback to the NTN binding system seems to be that it is a bit heavier than other bindings.   However, users say that the weight is not a deal breaker.  Those who tested the product upon its release in 2007 were enthusiastic about its performance, but wondered if the bindings would be durable enough to stand the test of serious skiers.  So far, they have proven to endure, but only time will tell how long they will last.  Either way, the benefits of NTN bindings far outweigh the negatives.

If you are looking for a Tele binding that gives you an edge and enhances your performance in the backcountry, look no further than NTN bindings.  You won’t find another binding that combines all these features and offers the same flexibility and control.

The Bigfoot ski was developed by Austrian ski manufacturer Kneissl in 1990.  This ski revolutionized the sport because it was one of the shortest skis made up until that year.  It has a shovel that’s looks like big toes, hence the name.   The ski really caught on during the early days of skiboarding.

The Bigfoot ski was so short that advanced skiers began to make up tricks to do on them.  The ski could actually hold an edge on ice, in the powder, and on more groomed slopes.  Before it was invented, there was nothing else like it.

Skiboarding and the Bigfoot Ski

Many experts credit the Bigfoot with starting the whole skiboarding craze.  Skiboarding actually started in the 1940s, although it never really caught on until the Bigfoot came onto the scene.  By 1992, a major distributor on the West Coast of the United States picked up the Bigfoot.

A few years later, a number of other manufacturers were making skis that were similar to the Bigfoot, but most serious skiboarders do still hold a special place in their heart for the Bigfoot since that is where it all began.  Skiboarding has fallen off a bit since the big craze in the 1990s, but it is starting to make a comeback on the slopes.

There is nothing like a race on the Bigfoot.  Some skiers say it feels more like water skiing when they are carving the back trails.  The short length is made for skiers who want to try something new and perhaps learn some new tricks.

Another reason skiers like the Bigfoot is because it allows for amazingly quick turns and incredible speed.  Spins are actually possible on this ski, and you can even ride backwards, thanks to the curved back tips.

Bigfoot Ski Specs

The Bigfoot ski hasn’t changed much through the years.  Here are the basic specs:

• Solid laminated foam core without flex
• 65 cm
• Sintered bases in sidewall construction
• The front shovel makes it easier to see where you’re going in deep snow
• Factory-mounted non-release bindings are included with this ski.
• Tool-less adjustments on the bindings
• These skis work perfectly with all regular ski boots, AT boots, and hardshell snowboard boots.

Buying the Bigfoot Ski

Kneissl no longer sells the Bigfoot Ski, but there are plenty of used ones around for those who are positive they want to try out this unusual ski.  Ebay and other retailers have pages and pages of people who want to sell their Bigfoot skis, so it is still relatively easy to find it.

Any skier who really wants an extreme ride should definitely look into getting the Bigfoot Ski.  There is nothing else like the classic version of this ski, and since it’s no longer in production, the opportunity for trying it is fading fast.