Nowadays, technology has grown fast so that it’s engineered most skis. With many skis with various engineered technology on the market, choose skis can be daunting. Every angle and contour affects how a ski turns, carries speed and acts in certain terrains. The ski turning radius is involved.
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What Does Ski Turning Radius Mean
Ski turning radius is the shape of a ski determined by its tip, waist, and tail width, usually expressed in meters. A narrower waist creates a shorter turn radius. Hence, the deeper sidecut.
Simply put, a ski with a short turn radius (deep sidecut) will make quick turns. In comparison, a ski with a long turn radius (subtle sidecut) will turn slower and stable underfoot.
It’s generally categorised ski turn radius into three levels:
| Short | < 15m |
| Medium | 15-20m |
| Long | > 20m |
How to Choose
You can choose ski turning radius by ability, and skiing style and terrains.
By Ability
A ski beginner needs more control on turns. A smaller turn radius will make the skis turn tighter. Additionally, it makes the keep ski on average speed.
Intermediate, advanced and expert skiers have better control of their speed and maybe looking for high speed. Many skiers at these levels are going to drawing their turns in the long arc. Therefore, skis with a medium to long turn radius will suit them.
| Beginner | Short – Medium |
| Intermediate | Medium |
| Advanced and Expert | Medium – Long |
By Skiing and Terrain Types
| Carving/All-Mountain/Powder with Tapered Tips and Tails/Moguls | Short |
| All-Mountain/Park/Pipe | Medium |
| Powder/Big-Mountain/Backcountry/Race | Long |
Conclusion
The turning radius of a ski may not seem like as much as other factors, such as ski length, waist width, rocker and camber, and stiffness when you are looking for a ski or snowboard.
However, turn radius affect ski’s performance. Choose the turn radius suit your ability or style will help you improve your ski skill. Our top selections from the various categories are below.
Best Men’s & Women’s Beginner Ski>>
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