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.

Learning how to dress for skiing is quite fun, but it is also a very serious subject matter because safety should be top priority in the gear you buy.  Of course there is the issue of being safe as you are going down the mountain, but you also want to keep your body temperature safe and make sure to choose clothes that actually breathe.

Despite the cold temperatures, you want air to be able to move through your clothes underneath that coat.  Then there are those final touches that you do not want to forget when you are learning how to dress for skiing.

Safety in How to Dress for Skiing

The first priority will be safety, especially if this is your first time skiing.  You’ll need the following safety gear:

• A helmet that fits properly
• Goggles with 100 percent UV protection
• A mouthguard
• Knee pads
• Elbow pads
• Padded ski pants

These items will help keep you safe, even if you end up taking a lot of spills on the slope.  On your first trip down the mountain, you probably will experience a few bumps, so it is always best to be prepared.  Even expert skiers wouldn’t head out on the slopes without some of these basic safety items.

How to Dress for Skiing: In Layers

Dressing for skiing also requires you to dress in layers.  This is the best way to make sure that there is enough air flow that you don’t end up actually overheating.  Skiing is a very active sport, so you will probably sweat.  Venting yourself with the proper clothing will keep that sweat away from your body where it can chill you.  Also if you are in one area where it is much warmer than in other areas, it is easy to take one layer off.

The Basic Layers for Dressing in Skiing

In general, you will need a base layer, which is long underwear made of breathable material that will pull sweat away from you.

Next you need a layer of insulation, which is likely to be a sweater or some kind of insulating shirt.  It should be lightweight while also keeping you warm. Next you may choose to wear a fleece layer under your ski jacket, but if you are skiing in an area with less wind and slightly warmer temps, you might choose to skip the fleece.

Finally, your ski jacket and pants should be padded and also able to break the wind.  Also put a hat on your head underneath the helmet to keep it warm, and once the helmet is on, add a pair of goggle to complete your safety gear and outfit.

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.

Choosing the right skiing trousers might seem like a very simply task, but style isn’t your only concern.  Before you head out on the slopes, you’ve got some other issues to think about when it comes to the skiing pants you choose.  Of course fit is a big part of the equation, but understanding how to dress for skiing is also extremely important.

The Basics on Skiing Trousers: How to Dress

The first thing you should learn about skiing is that you’ve got to dress in layers.  Each layer has a very specific purpose, so you shouldn’t overlook any of them:

• Top layer – This layer is also about warmth and isn’t necessary in warmer temperatures.
• Second layer – The goal of the second layer is to insulate you from the cold.
• Third layer – This layer should be breathable long underwear that’s made to pull sweat away from your body.

Most skiing trousers incorporate two or three layers into them, so keep this in mind as you shop.  Very cold temperatures will require all three layers, but slightly warmer temps may only need two layers.  It is also possible to create a third layer underneath a pair of two-layer skiing pants by wearing thick long underwear.

What to Look for in Skiing Trousers

You would be surprised how many new skiers think they don’t need special ski pants, but that is certainly not the case.  You need ski pants to protect you and keep you warm.  If you’re just learning to ski, you can expect to fall down frequently, and ski pants will prevent all those falls from being even more uncomfortable than they are.

Always look for a name brand that’s known and trusted in the ski world.  Also make sure that you have the proper fit before you head out on the slopes.  Make sure that the ski trousers you choose are both waterproof and breathable for maximum comfort on the slopes.

The Top Ski Trousers for Men and Women

Knowing which brands are the best can seem like learning a foreign language, especially if you are a new skier.  Here are some of the most trusted brands for men’s ski pants:

• Fera
• Spyder
• Columbia
• North Face

For women, some of the brands are the same, but there are a few additions:

• Salomon
• North Face
• Arcteryx
• Fera
• Skea

No matter which brand of ski pants you purchase, fit should always take precedence over style.  If the trousers don’t fit properly, you will have trouble moving and negotiating turns.  It is best to go into a store and try on several different styles so you know what fits the best, even if you do end up purchasing online because you happen to find a better price on the same pair.

One of the best ski resorts in Italy is the La Thuile Ski Resort.  It’s perfect for skiers who are looking for the traditional Alpine resort, and it also offers skiing across borders that will take you into France.  The resort is best for intermediate skiers, although experts and beginners also give it high marks.  Snowboarding is very popular there as well.

The Basic Stats about La Thuile Ski Resort

Of course there are a lot of features skiers want to know before they will book at any resort, so here are the basic stats about La Thuile Ski Resort:

• 16 ski lifts
• 29,000 skiers per hour can ride to the top of the mountain
• 300 snow cannons help to increase the amount of snow on days when there isn’t enough
• 38 trails
• Highest summit is 2642 meters
• 1 cable car – 3,000 people per hour can ride to the top
• 28 bars
• 24 restaurants
• 12 kilometers of cross country skiing
• 1 terrain park
• 1853 acres of ski area

Skiing at La Thuile Ski Resort

The slopes at this resort face north, so that provides some excellent riding and the option to ride right into France.  The resort is one of only a couple that share a ski area with a resort in France, so that is a unique feature of the area.

Cameras at the top of the slope will allow you to see what you’re getting yourself into before you even step outside.  The temperatures and other conditions on the mountain are constantly being updated so skiers are aware of when it’s safe to head out.

There is even a Napoleonic fort at the top of the mountain, which is perfect for skiers who really like to explore their surroundings.  Snowboarders will also enjoy the trails on this mountain.

Amenities at La Thuile Ski Resort

La Thuile Ski Resort also offers a number of amenities for skiers to enjoy.  The large number of restaurants and bars show that there is a wide variety of things to eat, although the nightlife there is more subdued than it is at some resorts.

Here are some of the amenities offered by the resort:

• Cross border and local ski passes available
• Heli-ski available
• Turkish bath and sauna
• Swimming pool
• Fitness center
• Ping pong
• Several hotels to choose from

Skiers who really want a quieter place to hit the slopes will definitely want to check out this resort.  It’s probably one of the best kept secrets in Italy because it sees far less traffic than other resorts in the area.

The off-piste areas get especially great reviews from skiers because they stay fresh a lot longer since there are fewer people at the resort.  Sometimes getting away from it all also means getting away from the crowds, and this resort definitely fits the bill.

Skiing is an exciting but dangerous sport, so getting the proper training through a school like Beaver Creek Ski School is essential.  Unlike sports like football and baseball, skiing is not something that is easily learned without training.

If you want to learn to ski, your best, safest option is to take lessons.  Beaver Creek Ski and Snowboard School in Colorado is considered by its graduates to be the best ski school in the country.  Offering lessons and accommodations for all ages, this ski school provides a family oriented atmosphere that will give you the skills to hit the slopes.

Children’s Lessons at Beaver Creek Ski School

Children learn easily and can gain a love and passion for skiing at a young age.  However, the risk of skiing is very real; it is important to educate children to ensure that they are both comfortable and protected.  Even the most safety cautious parents will feel that their children are in good hands at Beaver Creek Ski School.

The children’s ski area, called The Ranch, features courses designed to promote correct body movement.  Parents can view their children through windows and watch their progress during the lessons.  Since it takes patience and care to work with children, instructors are specially selected.  Children are divided into three age groups:

• Ages 3-6 get a day of lessons, lift access, and a healthy lunch.
• Ages 7-14 can choose between ski or snowboard lessons.
• Ages 14-18 can take lessons year round and have access to a special lift.

For children under the age of 3, childcare is available with a reservation.

Adult Lessons at Beaver Creek Ski School

Even professionals had to start somewhere!  No matter your age, it’s never too late to begin a passion for skiing.  Adults 19 and up can enjoy lessons to match their skill level.  Lessons are not only for beginners; there is always room for improvement.

Whether you are just beginning and need to learn the basics, or you have been skiing for years but want to advance, there is a lesson group for you.  Lessons at Beaver Creek Ski School will give you the confidence you need to navigate the slope and terrain level of your choice.  Depending on your level of commitment to the sport, you can join a group that will advance your skills appropriately.

Private Lessons at Beaver Creek Ski School

Although group lessons are effective, some prefer to have their instructor all to themselves.  Private lessons are perfect for those who are serious about becoming a great skier. If you want to make ski lessons a family affair, up to 5 people above the age of 3 can enjoy private instruction.

Private lessons include exclusive lifts, overnight equipment storage, and video analysis of your progress.  With the advantage of individualized instruction, you can improve and reach your goal quickly.

If you want to learn to ski, Beaver Creek Ski School is the place to go.  With all the options available for different age groups and families, there is no need to put off that ski trip you’ve wanted to take for years.

Taking a ski vacation doesn’t have to be expensive; there are plenty of cheap ski chalets that will not only provide you with a comfy place to bunk down at night, but also keep more cash in your pocket so you can enjoy more activities.  Cheap ski chalets are about as varied as the mountains you will ski on, so there is something for everyone.

The Best Cheap Ski Chalets

One of the worst things you could do for your ski budget is book at a huge resort.  The larger and more popular the resort is, the more you will end up paying for it.  However, by opting for lesser-known ski destinations, try some of these alternative ski destinations:

• In the U.S., Lake Tahoe instead of Vail, Colorado
• In France, opt for Chatel instead of Three Valleys
• Cervinia in Italy is usually cheaper than Piemonte, which hosted the 2006 Winter Olympics
• In Austria, consider Schladming instead of Solden
• In Bulgaria, book at Chepelare instead of Pamprovo

When to Book Cheap Ski Chalets

The time of year you book is probably one of the most important indicators of how much you will pay.  If you really want to save money on ski chalets, avoid booking in February, around Christmas, and other major holidays.  Some ski chalets even have man-made snow for low snow days, so consider your options when booking.

With booking ski trips, it is always best to book at the last minute or else far out in advance.  Of course with those two extremes, the only way you can be sure to get what you want is if you book way in advance.  However, if you like the adventure of not know where you’re going to stay, you might want to book at the last minute.

The reason these two options are the best is because they both give you the opportunity to save money.  Some ski chalets will give you a discount for booking early, and others want to make a few bucks by filling up their last few rooms at the last minute.  It all depends on what kind of traveler you are.

Other Tips for Finding Cheap Ski Chalets

If you don’t have your heart set on staying at a ski resort, there are plenty of deals to be had by staying in a small local inn.  These inns don’t have all the luxury amenities that the big resorts do, but you won’t have to pay a lot.

It’s important to weigh your priorities when booking cheap ski chalets because you will usually find that you spend more time on the slopes than in your room.  Is it really worth it to pay more for a place to stay when you won’t even be in the room much?

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.

If you are an adventurer seeking thrills in the snow, then Neilson’s Ski Holidays might be for you.  For more than 30 years, Neilson has been offering packages for couples, groups, and families.

Destinations with Neilson Ski Holidays

With incredible vacation packages in 10 countries, there is a destination tailor-made for you.  The company can help you with all inclusive packages or allow you the flexibility to secure your own travel arrangements.  Neilson Ski offers excursions to the following countries:

• Andorra
• Austria
• Bulgaria
• Canada
• France
• Italy
• Norway
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

No matter your budget, there is a ski resort waiting for you.  Neilson offers great rates and special discounts to make your ski holiday dreams come true.

Neilson Ski Holiday Types

You may envision yourself sitting fireside in a ski chalet at Christmas.  Or maybe you prefer the service and convenience of a hotel.  Whatever your choice, Neilson can help you find the perfect place for you and your party to stay and relax in between adventures.  Each category gives you choices for accommodations, activities, dining, and travel.  With so many options and packages, there is an infinite number of exciting experiences.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the slopes or a beginner, Neilson can help you with your ski vacation needs.  They offer advice on ski lessons, equipment, cost, and the best slopes for each skill level.  You will need to take all of these factors into account as you plan your trip.  Neilson can help you evaluate your ski needs and find the right resort for you and your group.

Activities During Neilson Ski Trips

While skiing may be the main event, Neilson offers many activities for people of all ages.  Depending on your destination, you could choose from any of these thrilling activities:

• Snowmobiling– Zip through the powder and enjoy the landscape on a snowmobile.
• Dog Sledding– All ages can have fun gliding through the snow behind a team of Huskies.
• Tobogganing—Relive your childhood and introduce your kids to tobogganing on specially                                           designed runs.
• Ice Skating– Most destinations offer ice skating as an activity for the whole family.
• Bumboarding—True to its name, anyone can enjoy the slopes while sitting on a tray.
• Ice Driving—Test your skills behind the wheel and drive like a daredevil over the ice and snow.
• Scenic Flights—Take a helicopter ride and catch breathtaking views of the mountains.
• Visit Santa Excursions—Take the kids to visit Santa in his own home.
• Snowshoeing—Enjoy the scenery with a walk through the countryside in snowshoes.
• Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides—Take a romantic ride in a horse drawn carriage across the snow.
• Dinner in a Tee Pee—Offered in one location as part of a trip to a winter camp, enjoy a hot meal just like the nomads once did.
• Cross Country Skiing—Glide through the country and enjoy the landscape while you ski.
• Thermal Baths—Take a relaxing soak in warm mineral baths.
• Tree Top Walk—Specially designed walkways allow you a bird’s eye view of the resort.

Exciting adventures await you!  Why not take advantage of the many tools that Neilson offers and book your fantasy ski vacation today?