5
Snow Ski Terminology
Base
- the bottom surface of the ski that aids in gliding.
Camber
- the curvature of the ski's base that helps distribute the skier's weight over the
length of the ski. Camber is the internal arc that is built into the ski.
Cord length
- the overall length of the ski.
Dampening
- the reduction of ski vibration or "chatter".
Edge
- the metal surface on the ski that aids in snow holding.
Flex/Torsion Ratio
- the relationship of a ski's longitudinal flex to its torsional flex.
Softer longitudinal flex and stiffer torsional flex provide more stability.
Length
- the measurement in centimeters (cm) from the ski's tip to its tail.
Longitudinal flex
- the measured amount in which the ski flexes along its length.
Profile
- the outline of the ski when viewed from the top or bottom.
Running surface
- the total area of the ski that contacts the snow's surface when the ski
is flat.
Side cut
- the "hourglass" shape a ski has as a result of a wide tip and tail and a narrow
waist. Tip, waist and tail are measured in millimeters (mm).
Swing weight
- the rotational mass of the ski - a lower swing weight allows quicker turn
initiation.
Tail
- the rearward most part of the ski.
Tip
- the forward most part of the ski.
Torsional flex
- the measured amount in which the ski flexes along its width or the
amount in which the ski "twists".
Weight
- the physical mass of the ski.