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.

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

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.

There are a number of great Volkl skis from 2011, so any skier will find some that suit them perfectly.  It simply is a matter of learning about the various models and deciding exactly what kind of ski you want.  They offer both alpine and Nordic skis for men, women and children, and there are several models available, depending on your expertise level and the exact type of skiing you want to do.

2011 Volkl Skis for Men

Here are some of the best options for men who are looking for Volkl skis:

• Racetiger series – The skis in this series meet USSA and FIS race regulations and also come with quite a versatile ride.
• Tigershark series – Aimed at expert skiers who want maneuverability with a touch of versatility for groomed slopes.
• Unlimited series – Crud and chopped up powder are the name of the game for the skis in this series.
• Kuro or Katana – Perfect for big mountain skiing, these skis are for hitting the powder and occasionally exploring more groomed slopes.
• Kendo – This model is one of the best all mountain skis on the market right now, and it’s perfect for skiers who want a 50 50 split on forward and backward skiing.
• Nanuq or Amaruq – Both of the Volkl models for touring are excellent cross country choices.

Volkl Skis in 2011 for Women

Many of the skis in the Volkl line are unisex, so men and women can use both of them, but there are several models that are made specifically for women, based on the different shape of a woman’s body.

Here are some of the best 2011 models from Volkl for women:

• Sol – These skis are for intermediate to advanced women looking to enhance their skills on the slope.
• Aura – The perfect big mountain ski for women.
• Oceana – Skiers who are just getting their feet wet for the first time will love learning on this model, which is one of the few that are geared toward brand new learners.
• Kenja – Advanced ladies who want to spend equal time on groomed slopes and powder will be interested in this model.
• Pearl – The best freestyle option for women from the Volkl line is this model, which is very versatile and lets you explore the entire mountain.

Children’s 2011 Volkl Skis

Even children like to ski, and not all kids are beginner.  This is why it can be so difficult to choose new skis for kids.  The good news is that there are skis aimed at all ski levels, so you just have to know a bit about the models to match them to the level of your skier.

• Racetiger series – Kids who like to race and are more advanced will be interested in this series.
• Ledge Junior – This ski is the children’s version of the all mountain twin tip ski.
• Unlimited Junior – This model is aimed at kids who are just learning how to ski.
• Chica – Girls who are just learning how to ski may prefer this model.
• Gem Junior – More advanced girls will be interested in the Gem Junior, which allows them to learn how to ski off trail.

If you’re an advanced to expert skier looking for a set of touring skis that offer lightweight construction and versatility, look no further that Volkl Nanuq.  These skis perform great in both powder and hard-packed snow conditions.  Why waste time and money buying different skis for different conditions when you can get everything you need in one pair of Volkl Nanuqs?

Basic Features of the Volkl Nanuq

The Nanuq is based on the Mantra mold, but without the metal top sheet.  This minor difference changes the ski entirely making it much lighter but still able to stand up to steep terrains.  The lack of the top sheet does not sacrifice stiffness or dampness.  The Nanuq features:

• Multi-layer wood core provide flexibility and stability
• Power Construction torsion box provides superior edge hold and control
• Turn radius of 25.5m for 184 cm
• Pre-cut lightweight skins with a Skin Pin system for easy attachment
• 96mm waist
• Dimensions 130-94-113
• Traditional core of ash to poplar
• Tail profile twin tip rocker

Why Skiers Love Volkl Nanuq Skis

A floater ski, it is also adaptable to a variety of situations and landscapes.  The greatest feature of the Volkl Nanuqs seems to be its versatility.  Among skiers who reviewed them, these skis stood the test of all conditions but the deepest powder.

The lightweight provides maneuverability, but the Nanuqs are still stiff and damp enough to carve trails over rugged terrain.  Whether hitting the slopes at a resort or trekking through the backcountry, skiers found that the Nanuqs were up to any challenge calling them a “go-to” ski.

Because of their traditional profile, you can be assured of control even in the worst conditions.  The rounded tail also helps for navigating turns and letting go and having fun.    The Pin Skin system and pre-cut skins make it easy to strap on the skin during those spring tours.  Simply attach the pin to the hole, twist it, and strap down the tail.  You’re ready to take on any terrain with Volkl’s integrated system.

Other Benefits of Volkl Nanuqs

Advanced skiers will enjoy the versatility of the Volkl Nanuq skis.  Depending on where you want to go, Nanuqs can take you there!  With the option to use any binding you want, all you need to decide is your path.

Nanuqs offer the benefits of a hard edge, lightweight construction, and the stiffness necessary for any terrain.  Whatever your style, these skis can handle turns, groomed runs, or rugged backcountry.

If you prefer to own only one set of skis, try the Volkl Nanuqs and see how a performance touring ski can give you the speed and edge you need to enjoy your ski time this winter.

The 2012 edition of the Nordica Hell and Back skis combines performance with lightweight technology for faster speeds on the slopes. Details on the latest specs.

With a name like “Hell and Back”, you know that this is a powerful and fearless ski that leaves little to be trifled with. The Nordica brand of skis has a rich history of high performance ski wear. Started in 1939 in Italy by the Vaccari brothers, the Nordica line was among the first to capitalize on the popularity of downhill ski racing after World War II.

The Nordica Hell and Back ski is an alpine or mountain ski for skiers looking for products with cutting-edge technology. The 2012 Hell and Back is a new ski model that blends high performance with lightness technology. A unique feature of the Hell and Back is its dual excellence at scaling down hills and going up hills; it needs not sacrifice in providing you with a ski that excels in both directions of movement, downhill and uphill.

The Nordica Hell and Back: The Specs

• Sidecut of 135-98-123
• Ski lengths available: 169cm, 177cm, and 185cm
• Radius range of 16m, 17m, 19m, and 21m
• Tip rocker extends 340 mm – 400 mm from the snow (dependant on ski length)
• High Rise rocker
• I-Core technology
• CamRock technology
• Pre-cut skins available

The Technology of the Nordica Hell and Back

Skiing off and on the piste is easy with these skis, as their sweet 98mm waist allows you to stay above crusty and crud snow while floating easily over soft powder. The large radius of the sidecut is great for skis off-piste.

The CamRock technology produces early tip and tail rises (35% rocker) with 3mm of camber. The camber is the space beneath the ski when it is flat on a surface, and the weight is supported by the tip and the tail. The early rise tip makes it a breeze to resist deep snow dives and allows for uncomplicated turning. The camber is standard and gives easy maneuverability on variable snow and groomers.

The Nordica Hell and Back: The I-Core

I-Core technology of the Nordica Hell and Back is what allows it to be so lightweight (up to 20%) and still maintain its high level of flexibility and performance. The center of the wood core is stripped away and replaced with a synthetic strip in the I-Core. As this takes place at the neutral axis, nothing is compromised in the ski; it simply carries less weight now.

The synthetic core strip is cased between two hardwood strips to stabilize it and the rest of the ski is made up of soft wood for maximum flexibility. The I-Core design takes care of weight concerns, allowing you to fly faster over the snow, yet it still remains a durable and responsive ski.  It seems pretty clear that these faster speeds may be one of the reasons these skis are so aptly named.