Freestyle skis

Freestyle skiing or freeride skiing – what’s the difference?

Some of you may be wondering what distinguishes freestyle skis from freeride skis. To answer that, let’s go back to basics and look at the definition of these two distinct disciplines.

From acrobatic skiing to freestyle skiing

Freestyle skiing is the evolution of acrobatic skiing. It’s traditionally practised in a snowpark, on shaped features made of snow as well as pre-fabricated modules such as rails, boxes and ledges. It can also be done in other environments, such as in the streets or off-piste. Wherever it’s done, the goal remains the same: the skier aims to perform tricks with as much style as possible. Both freestyle and acrobatic skiing are Olympic disciplines. Acrobatic skiing includes moguls, aerials and ski cross, while freestyle skiing encompasses slopestyle, halfpipe and big air. These alpine skiing disciplines are, of course, part of the International Ski Federation. You can also enjoy top-level freestyle competitions at the Winter X Games, featuring the same events: slopestyle, halfpipe and big air. A new format appeared in 2020 – the Knuckle Huck – which is all about style, fun and creativity.

Freeride skiing for mountain lovers and adventurers

Freeride skiing, on the other hand, is more about the environment in which it’s practised – off-piste terrain. Freeriding simply means skiing down unprepared slopes, away from groomed pistes. You don’t need to perform tricks to freeride; instead, it’s about having solid technique in all snow conditions. Freeride skiing also requires additional knowledge such as mountain safety, weather interpretation and understanding of the snowpack. Although freeride skiing isn’t an Olympic discipline, it has its own international competitions, most notably the renowned Freeride World Tour, with events held on some of the world’s most iconic mountains.

>> Discover all our freeride skis! <<

And what about my twin-tip skis – are they freeride or freestyle?

Different disciplines mean different characteristics. Freestyle skis are often twin-tipped to allow skiing switch, which isn’t always the case for freeride skis. Some freestyle skis are narrower underfoot as they’re designed for park use, whereas freeride skis are at least 100 mm wide underfoot (with the upper range between 115 and 130 mm) to perform well in powder. Flex also differs between freestyle and freeride skis. Freestyle skis tend to have a softer, more symmetrical flex for balanced performance forwards and backwards, while freeride skis are generally stiffer and more directional.

Freestyle backcountry skiing – a blend of freeride and freestyle shapes?

Some skis sit at the crossroads between freeride and freestyle – notably freestyle backcountry skis. These need to be wide enough to float in deep snow while retaining a twin-tip profile for switch skiing. In FS BC (Freestyle Backcountry), skis are wide and twin-tipped, with a long turn radius for stability and a traditional camber combined with double rocker for an ideal balance between float and manoeuvrability. Freestyle backcountry isn’t (yet) an Olympic discipline either. Check out our selection of backcountry skis here!

From a technical standpoint, there are also differences between freestyle and freeride skis in terms of shape, outline and binding position. A freestyle ski is typically twin-tip, meaning it has a symmetrical shape with bindings mounted centrally. This balances the centre of gravity for equal control forwards and backwards. Conversely, a freeride ski is more tapered between the nose and tail, with a setback stance. This directional design enhances carving and float. Once again, freestyle backcountry skis strike a balance between these characteristics.

How to choose your freestyle skis

Beyond selecting the right ski length for your body size, choosing a freestyle ski depends on three main criteria: flex, camber profile and ski width.

As with any alpine discipline, the stiffer the ski, the more demanding it is to handle. Choose a ski that matches both your ability and your intended use. It’s not about picking the “best” freestyle ski, but the one best suited to you. A ski that’s too soft in the halfpipe or backcountry freestyle won’t deliver top performance. Conversely, if you’re into urban freestyle and jib tricks, we recommend a softer ski, even if you’re not a beginner.

Freestyle skis are almost always twin-tipped, meaning they can be skied both forwards and backwards (switch). However, depending on your skill level, riding style and preferred terrain, different camber profiles are available. There are two main types of camber in freestyle skis: full traditional camber and traditional camber combined with double rocker. The camber + double rocker setup offers greater manoeuvrability, easier pivoting and improved float. It’s more versatile and playful – ideal for jibbing, slopestyle or freestyle backcountry.

What ski width for freestyle?

The ski’s width should match the snow conditions you’ll encounter. For freestyle backcountry skis designed for powder, look for at least 105 mm underfoot. For skis dedicated purely to halfpipe or snowpark use, a width around 90 mm underfoot is ideal.

What length of freestyle ski should you choose?

The length of your freestyle skis should correspond to your height and riding style.

For an all-round freestyle ski, choose a length between 0 and 10 cm shorter than your height if you like mixing piste, side hits and park. Go shorter – 5 to 10 cm below your height – if you ride exclusively in the park. This will make your skis more playful and easier to manoeuvre for tricks.

For park-focused freestyle, pick skis equal to your height if you ride mostly kickers and halfpipe, or slightly shorter if you prefer jibbing (rails, boxes, etc.).

Finally, for freestyle backcountry, go 5 to 10 cm longer than your height to gain float and stability.

Check out our detailed tutorial to help you choose your freestyle ski length!

So, which freestyle ski should you choose?

You now have the key information to pick your freestyle skis! In summary, your choice depends on your height, ability, riding style and preferred terrain. Beyond that, you’ll decide based on graphics, brand and budget. On this page, you’ll find all the freestyle skis available at Glisshop. You can also browse freestyle skis from specific brands, such as Line or Black Crows!

What are the best freestyle ski brands?

Some brands are particularly renowned in the freestyle world. Armada and Faction immediately come to mind – both 100% freeski brands offering a wide range of twin-tip models for freestyle, available in ski + binding packages. While freestyle has its specialist brands, you’ll also find excellent freestyle ranges from more generalist manufacturers such as Salomon and Rossignol from France, K2 from the USA, Völkl from Germany and Atomic from Austria.

Faction freestyle skis

The Swiss brand Faction continually refines its iconic models season after season, such as the Prodigy range, available for both men and women in various widths to suit different freestyle terrains. For instance, the Prodigy 0 and its women’s version, the 0X, are park-oriented freestyle skis with an 85 mm waist, while the Prodigy 2 and 2X, with a 98 mm waist, offer greater versatility for freestyle on piste edges and light powder.

Armada freestyle skis

Armada was founded in 2002 in California. Immersed in the freeski culture from day one, the brand’s creativity shines through in the artwork on its topsheets. With a team of highly skilled riders, Armada offers the Signature Series – a collection of pro-model skis that inspire freestyle enthusiasts. Examples include the BDog, a playful and durable twin-tip with a 94 mm waist, the pro model of Phil Casabon, and the Whitewalker 116 by Sammy Carlson, a powder twin-tip with a 116 mm waist built for freestyle backcountry. Armada also develops the ARV and ARW range dedicated to all-mountain freestyle.

The French option: Rossignol and Salomon freestyle skis

French brands also deliver excellent freestyle skis.

Rossignol offers models such as the Blackops 118, a big twin-tip built for backcountry freestyle, the Trixie, a soft and accessible freestyle ski for beginner female riders, and the Sprayer, perfect for young shredders eager to throw their first tricks.

At Salomon, the QST Spark range turns things upside down, with the QST Spark S and Spark M designed for kids and the QST Spark for adult men and women.

K2 freestyle skis

The American brand K2 offers several freestyle models, including the legendary K2 Poacher – a true institution, refined year after year. A ski that’s no stranger to the X Games and Dew Tour podiums, ridden by freestyle athletes like Joss Christensen, Colby Stevenson and Ferdinand Dahl. A genuine freestyle weapon featuring a poplar/ash core reinforced with carbon.

Völkl freestyle skis

The German brand Völkl’s Revolt range provides a wide selection of freestyle skis for all ages and skill levels. Young freestyle hopefuls will find the Revolt Jr for boys and the Revolt W Jr for girls ideal companions. For adults, the Revolt comes in no fewer than seven waist widths (81 mm, 84 mm, 86 mm, 90 mm, 95 mm, 104 mm and 121 mm) to perfectly match your preferred terrain.

Atomic freestyle skis

No discussion of European brands would be complete without mentioning Atomic’s Bent range – a stunning series of freestyle skis starting with the Bent 85 for progressing in the park and culminating with the Bent Chetler 120, Chris Benchetler’s pro model, a powerhouse of pop and float for big tricks in deep powder. The colourful, artistic topsheets also echo the creative designs seen on Armada skis.