Alpine skiing: skis, bindings and maintenance

To ski on the slopes, you need a pair of skis, properly adjusted bindings and well-maintained bases. This page brings together skis, bindings, skins, wax and sharpening tools, as well as snowshoes for outings off-piste.

What alpine ski equipment includes

This page covers everything related to skiing, excluding clothing. You’ll find skis, sold with or without bindings, bindings on their own, climbing skins, and especially a wide choice of wax and tools for maintaining the bases and edges. Snowshoes are also available for walking in the mountains when skiing isn't on the agenda.

Waxing and sharpening your skis yourself

A well-waxed ski glides better and is easier to control. The principle is simple: clean the base with a wax remover, melt the wax with a waxing iron, scrape off the excess, then brush. Sharpening the edges is done using a file or a sharpener, with the ski secured in a vice. A maintenance kit includes the essentials to get started.

Poles, bindings, and covers to complete your setup

Once you’ve chosen your skis, you'll need to equip them. Ski bindings are adjusted according to your weight and skill level. Alpine ski poles or ski touring poles should be selected based on your height, and luggage is used for transport. To walk on snow, check out snowshoes.

Brands of skiing equipment

Vola offers wax and maintenance tools, including waxing irons. TSL manufactures snowshoes, like the Symbioz or the Highlander. Head provides skis, like the Kore, and bindings. Dynastar completes the ski offering, Look the binding range, and Swix the brushes and wax.

Equipping yourself for skiing without breaking the bank

Last year's equipment is often available at reduced prices on winter sports clearance. During discounts, winter sports sales allow you to complete your maintenance kit, and new arrivals showcase the latest stock.

Choosing your ski based on your activity

The choice of ski mainly depends on where you ski. For groomed pistes, a narrower ski turns quickly and grips well on hard snow. For alternating between piste and fresh snow, a versatile ski that’s a bit wider floats better. For ski touring, you're looking for lightweight options for climbing, with appropriate bindings and skins. The length is chosen based on your height, weight, and skill level: shorter for easier turning, longer for stability at high speeds. Ask for advice if you're unsure between two lengths.