TYPES OF SKIS

Due to the many different styles of skiing, there are many different kinds of skis. Over the years skis have evolved from long skinny wooden planks to complex multi layered skis. Modern skis are much more technologically advanced then people may believe. There are even skis today that have micro chips in them. These micro chips change the skis stiffness to better suit the terrain that is being skied.

Twin-Tips

Twin tip skis were originally designed for new school skiing, for jumps, rails, and half pipes. Unlike older skis, twin tips to not have a flat tail. The front and rear of the ski curve up witch enables a rider to take of and or land backwards. Although they were primarily designed for the terrain park, twin-tips have become a successful all mountain ski.
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Rocker Skis

Over the last few years the industry has seen a rise in production of rocker skis. Rocker style skis are designed to help one float in powder, and facilitates grinding rails in the park. Unlike a tradition camber or flat ski, a rocker is similar to the bottom of a rocking chair.
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http://www.evo.com/rocker-guide-what-is-rocker-and-why-does-it-matter.aspx

One can easily see the difference in construction of a rocker style ski.

All-Mountain

All mountain skis can be a rocker, camber, or flat ski. They are designed to excel on all part of the mountain. This includes the back country and groomed runs.

Backcountry

Backcountry skis are generally wider then an all-mountain or park ski. This is due to the fact that the backcountry is the best place for skiing powder. The increased width helps the skier "float" through the snow, instead of sinking to the bottom.


Park and Pipe

Park and Pipe skis are designed to take a beating. The are generally not wide, do to the fact that parks are always groomed. This helps reduce the weight of the ski, making it easier for the rider to manoeuvre themselves. It is extremely rare to see a freestyle skier who does not wear a twin-tip style ski.