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Gear 2002: How Short Can They Go? (continued)
Shorter skis (under 200cm) aren't just a trend anymore -- they've suddenly become the norm, and in a remarkably short period of time. Just two years ago, longer skis still predominated in the new offerings of most manufacturers. This season, a staggering 90 percent of new ski models introduced for 2001-2002 are 195cm or shorter! Don't even bother to ask for a longer version, because they simply aren't available in these new models.
What's the reason for this incredible turnaround? There are several, actually. First, ski manufacturers are finally concentrating on how most people actually ski -- at resorts, where traffic volume is high and trails can be narrow. If you're leaping out of a helicopter onto a vast expanse of totally undisturbed mountaintop snow, longer skis can make for a faster and more exciting run. But if you're skirting trees, dodging other skiers and queuing up in lift lines, maneuverability is paramount. And shorter skis provide a level of control and comfort that's unmatched by their longer brethren.
The other factor driving down ski lengths is technology. Improved materials and manufacturing techniques are what make the deep sidecuts on the new short skis possible. And the deeper cut means that you can now use almost the entire length of the ski to grab the snow and carve out that perfect turn. With older straight-edge skis, that simply wasn't possible.
The bottom line: Today's new skis provide just as much control, with less weight and greater maneuverability. That's a tough combination to beat.
Speed freaks and extreme skiers will still want a set of long boards. Don't expect to see professional racers on a pair of "shorties" anytime soon. But if you're like the overwhelming majority of today's recreational skiers, shorter is definitely the way to go.
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