What is the best womens ski for Cannon Mt., Franconia, NH? Elan, Volkl, or Atomic are my options.?

Question

remember : Cannon Mt. = hard packed snow and ice

Answer 1

I have skied in NH for the last 30 years, and I skied Cannon about a dozen times last year. I ski blue and black runs on Cannon.

Cannon has my favorite terrain in NH, but it is not always well groomed. While it is true that the mountain is primarily hardpack, if you have skied it before you already know the biggest issue is ice. There is lots of it and it comes up quickly.

To ski on ice you need sharp edges, and I think a bit stiffer ski. I have been using shaped skis for 8 years, and I have had the best luck with either Atomic all-mountain or GS skis. I have also had good luck with Volkl GS skis, and Volkl all-mountain skis. I have not had as much luck with Rossignols or Salomons (though they are both good on fresh, softer snow). I've never used Elans.

Two recommendations:

1. I would only buy GS skis if you are aggressive, in good shape and at least a high intermediate level skier. Otherwise I would go for the all-mountains. Just keep them in tune and you should be fine.

2. It is ALWAYS best to demo a ski before you buy it. See if you can get the shop to let you do this, or rent the ski for a day and see how it does. Buy the one you like the best, and don't worry about brand or "coolness"

Good luck, and see you on Cannon!

Answer 2

They all make skis suitable for hardpack. They make different skis suitable for all mountain, and different skis for western powder. The best thing to do is demo a few skis to see what you like. Everybody likes different things, and advising among a range of brands is a futile occupation.