What’s the best ski setup for Jackson Hole?
I know it's early but I have a ski question. I've snowboarded since I was seven but I started skiing last year. What would be the best ski/boot/binding combo for skiing the resort in Jackson and doing some backcountry stuff too. Skyler Dubois, WY
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Yes! Of course it still is summer, but it’s never too soon to think about snow. Just give me a few more warm days first.
Picture of the Side Stash
Picture of the Side StashFor Jackson and some backcountry stuff, I’m probably go with a wide all-mountain ski. It’ll handle powder, groomed snow, and be fine for backcountry. A good example of this the K2‘s SideStash ski ($750). It has a sidecut designed for easy turn initiation in a wide range of snow conditions. And its width and powder tip lets it float in soft new stuff. It’ll even take skins. Atomic‘s Panic ($400) offers similar design features and multi-terrain ski-ability at a more affordable price point.
For boots, Rossignol‘s Synergy Sensor 80s ($310) offer good all-terrain capability in a traditional downhill boot. Salomon‘s Quest boots ($500) add some rigidity and are best for expert skiers. They’re also classic downhill boots.
If you plan on a lot of backcountry stuff, then maybe a pair of randonee boots would be in order. Scarpa‘s Skookums ($720) offer great control downhill, with the ability to hike back up to the top. Add to them a pair of Frischi Diamir Eagle randonee bindings ($400—sold in the United States by Black Diamond, and you’re all set.