Groomers - Groomer skis have a skinnier waist width (typically below 85mm wide) and feature a cambered profile. With a cambered profile, groomer skis have a longer point of contact with the snow, making them more suitable for carved turns on smooth snow. A skinnier waist width allows for quicker transfer from edge to edge, but decreases flotation in new or soft snow. Groomer skis are typically constructed to be stabler than a true all mountain ski, making shorter, sliding pivot-style turns harder to initiate.

All Mountain - All mountain skis have a wider waist width (typically 85mm - 108mm wide) than a groomer ski and often features some form of early rise in the tip. An all mountain ski is well suited to make both carving and sliding pivot-style turns on groomed runs or variable terrain like bumps or trees.

Freestyle - Freestyle skis have a skinnier waist (80mm - 95mm wide) and feature a twin tip for skiing backwards or “switch”. These skis see the most “switch” riding of any ski category and thus are constructed with a more symmetrical width profile so that the skis turn similarly when skiing forwards or backwards. Freestyle skis are generally built to be light but durable so they can withstand larger airs and grinding rails or boxes.

Big Mountain/Powder - Big Mountain/Powder skis have a wide waist width (108mm - 125mm wide) and feature some aspect of rocker in the ski’s profile. Skis in this category are built to float in deep, soft snow, but can vary in stiffness.

Backcountry - Backcountry skis can range widely in waist widths (75mm - 125mm wide) and are built for uphill and downhill travel. These skis are built with weight savings in mind and are less suited for the wear and tear of skiing in-bounds at a resort.

Beginner - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for the beginner skier or boarder are built to be more forgiving and easier to handle on the slopes. Skis and Boards are typically built with foam or wood cores that are more flexible and have shorter radii, making them less challenging to turn. Bindings are generally more pliable than models built for more advanced skiers or boarders.

Intermediate - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for intermediate skiers or boarders generally provide more stability and performance than beginner focused equipment. Skis and Boards generally have medium radiuses with better handling at higher speed while still being forgiving at slower speeds. 

Advanced - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for advanced skiers or boarders generally provide a stiffer, higher performance ride that is better suited for steeper terrain and higher speeds. Skis and Boards generally have medium to large radii. Bindings are generally more rigid and provide better power transfer. 

Expert - Skis, Boards, Boots and Bindings for expert skiers or boarders are built to provide the highest level of precision and power. Skis and Boards are generally on the stiffer side requiring more effort and technique to turn effectively.