The width of frontside skis typically falls between 82mm and 88mm underfoot.
Frontside skis are specifically engineered for performance on groomed trails and hard-packed snow. The ski's width, measured at the narrowest point under the boot (the waist), is a key factor determining its handling characteristics. Skis with narrower waists, like frontside skis, allow for quicker edge-to-edge transitions, providing excellent grip and carving ability on firm surfaces.
Based on the provided reference, here's a breakdown of common ski categories by width:
| Ski Category | Waist Width Range | Primary Terrain |
|---|---|---|
| Frontside | 82-88mm | Groomed runs, Hard snow |
| All-Mountain | 88-102mm | Groomed runs, Powder, Variable snow |
| Big-Mountain / Freeride | 100-112mm | Variable snow, Off-piste, Powder |
| Powder | 112mm & Wider | Deep powder snow |
- Why Width Matters: The narrower waist of a frontside ski (82-88mm) allows the skier to quickly roll the ski onto its edge. This is crucial for making precise carving turns on groomed slopes.
- Performance Insights: This width range provides a balance of stability and agility, making these skis ideal for skiers who spend most of their time on groomed terrain, focusing on carving and edge hold.
Choosing the right ski width depends heavily on where and how you plan to ski. For those prioritizing groomed runs and carving performance, the 82-88mm range of frontside skis is the sweet spot.
