All-Mountain Skis
Benefits of the All-Mountain Ski
The name 'all-mountain skis' perfectly reflects their multi-functional nature, making them ideal for both piste and off-piste skiing, and occasionally suitable for park as well. All-mountain skis cater to those desiring to diversify their ski technique and explore various terrains. Instead of purchasing multiple skis for different disciplines, a single pair of all-mountain skis can cover nearly all your needs. However, if your focus is solely on performing tricks or competitive downhill racing, it's advisable to explore categories with skis tailored to these purposes.
Generally, all-mountain skis feature a broad design with prominent tips, providing a significant advantage for off-piste skiing, yet they remain well-suited for the piste. Narrower skis are often more efficient on-piste, while broader options excel in off-piste conditions. For those who frequently switch between piste and off-piste, selecting an all-mountain ski with medium width can be beneficial, as these are usually equally suited for both skiing styles.
Most all-mountain skis incorporate a mix of Camber and Rocker baselines to ensure they perform effectively in various skiing disciplines. Nonetheless, models with either a full Camber or full Rocker baseline are also available.
Distinguishing Between Backcountry Skis and All-Mountain Skis
The all-mountain ski's need for versatility often borrows design elements from other ski types, like backcountry or twintip skis. Backcountry skis, also known as freeride or off-piste skis, have a wider build which facilitates easier movement over snow and are made for handling the fresh powder in off-piste areas. The usual width underfoot for backcountry skis is 100 mm or above. Some skis within the all-mountain category are also quite suitable for backcountry use, as indicated in their product specifications.
Explore the various all-mountain skis via each product description to understand the disciplines they are equipped for and their respective baselines.