Skis for advanced but small woman

Question
Hi,

I am a small woman, 48 kg, 158 cm. I love to ski and usually rent advanced skis. That gets me something one step down from mens slalom racing skis (I think I had Rossignol SL but not world cup last year). I like those but I do not appreciate the women skis that I tried so far. Now I want to buy my own and am looking for used skis.

I was suggested to buy junior racing skis. Is that any good for me? A pair of Head SL?

Can I buy adult racing skis or should I stay one level down if I buy adult skis?

I ski on all slopes and have done so for over 30 years (am 35).

Answer
Hi Anna and thanks for the question.

Im unable to give specific ski advice as i now live in the desert here in Australia, also that skis vary from southern to northern hemisphere due to snow variations.

The best way to find a ski is to ski it first if you can. If you havent skied a jnr race ski - then i would try it before making the payment. Also make sure you can inspect the ski before you buy them esp kids skis [care of ski will show in terms of base condition, edges rusted etc] You will also need to consider the bindings on them as you may have to change them if the DIN is not appropriate for you.

If not, go with flex:
Pushing the ski in the centre, tip and tail looking for the rebound you like to ski.
If you cant push it - chances are you will have trouble skiing them as well.

Aim for a radius you like to ski [short medium or long turns]
Also talk to the pros about the terrain you like - bumps, steeps, ice, powder.

I too need to buy skis this seasin and im not looking forward to it - too many options.
And yes i too often find myself headed for the middle range mens rather than a high end womans as they just dont compare. Go with skis you have tried - at least you will know what you are getting.

lisa