There will often be leftover skis from last year's stock still available. By looking at last years magazine's test reports, you can find a terrific pair at substantial discount. Ski stores often have labor day sales just to clear these out, so look in your local paper, and get there early for the best selection.

2torial #0586: Learn2 Buy New Skis (Continued) Try before you buy Now that you've narrowed your choices, try to arrange to take them out for a spin. Before you demo a pair of skis, make sure that the shop has tuned them properly. Are the edges sharp? Ask if the edges have been beveled. Is there a fresh coat of wax on the bottom? Often a shop will not have the time to work on the skis on a busy morning. So improve your odds of receiving a pair in good shape by arranging your demo at least a day in advance. There are specific things that you should try to evaluate. Depending on your style of skiing or the intended use of the skis, you'll need to check most of the following characteristics: Take the skis onto a freshly groomed surface first thing in the morning. Find out if the ski chatters over that "corduroy" or if it's relatively quiet.   Make a series of longer radius turns. Does the ski arc cleanly and easily or does it feel unstable and nervous?   Make a series of shorter turns. Does the ski come around easily, with good rebound into the next turn, or does it want to go straight down the hill and have to be forced into any other move?   Find some very hard snow or ice and ski across the hill while putting your weight on your lower inside edge. Does the edge "bite" and provide a solid grip? Or does it break loose and force you to scramble?   Ski badly and throw your weight forwards and back. Does the ski "forgive" you and give you an opportunity to correct your stance? Or does it shoot out from under you immediately and become impossible to turn?   Ski properly in a balanced stance. Does the ski respond well to pressure and allow you to drive it into an arced shape with helpful rebound? Or does it feel like a wet noodle with little "spring" to it?   If you're a better skier, take the skis onto ungroomed snow and see whether the shovel gets knocked around in crud or tracks through with little difficulty. If powder is available, see how well the ski "floats" in deep snow.   Finally, take the skis through the racing gates (actually this will be the first thing some people do). Does the ski jump out of the ruts or does it hold the line? Do you have explosive energy available to help you into the next turn? Is there exceptional edge grip throughout the entire ski or just underfoot? Step 5