Want to find out about more skis? Discover more skis from all categories with our ski tests.
Boots
Unlike touring boots which unclip at the heel to help you walk, there are no specific features that identify a suitable all-mountain ski boot. With the help of a boot fitter, choose a pair that comfortably accommodates your foot shape and bear in mind that if you’re heading off-piste, stiffer boots are going to be uncomfortable, so it’s advisable to go with a lower flex rating than what you might usually wear.
The Salomon X Pro range is an excellent choice for all mountain skiers. A slightly roomier fit than the Annecy based manufacturer’s race line, the X-Pro series accommodates a range of foot shapes as well as ski styles. Available in a range of flexes in male and female specific models, the X-Pro is the perfect match for any level and style of skier, a true jack of all trades. The custom shell and liner make this boot your own, couple this with a custom insole at your local Snow+Rock store and you have a 360° fit.
View the entire range of Salomon boots online or in-store at Snow+Rock.
Poles
Carbon poles are preferred to aluminium poles by most all-mountain skiers for their superior flex, giving you maximum push-off-power through deeper snow. Go for a large basket – or, even better, choose poles that allow you to easily change the basket. That way you’re covered for both piste and powder.
Leki have a fantastic range of poles to suit all styles of all mountain skier. From the more lightweight and aerodynamic poles to the burlier and stronger offerings the manufacturer’s carbon poles are industry leading, and their aluminium offerings aren’t too bad either. Interchangeable baskets coupled with Leki’s parented Trigger Speed grip tick all the feature boxes and place the poles at the top of the wish list.
View the range of Leki poles online at Snow+Rock.
Bindings
To choose a ski binding you first need to know the waist width of your skis. This will determine what size brakes you need. As a minimum, you’re looking for brakes which are the same width as your skis, but they should be no more than 15mm wider or else they could get in the way.
You’ll also need to know your DIN setting, which will vary depending on your skiing ability, weight, height, and boot sole length.