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Women's Demo Days: How to make the most of an On Snow Ski Demo

Jan 3rd 2026

Why Demoing Skis for Yourself Beats Reviews, Ratings, and Everyone Else’s Opinions

There’s no shortage of ski reviews out there. Magazines, websites, friends on the chairlift — everyone has an opinion about the best ski. But here’s the truth we’ve learned after decades in the ski industry:

The best ski is the one that works for you.

That’s why we’re such big believers in demoing skis for yourself — and why we love hosting women’s demo days year after year.

Why Demoing Skis Matters

You wouldn’t buy a car without taking it for a test drive, right? Skis deserve the same treatment.

Reading reviews and talking to ski experts (yes, including us at Outdoor DIVAS) is a great place to start. Reviews can help narrow your options and explain design intent — but they can’t tell you how a ski will feel under your feet, on your terrain, with your skiing style.

Demoing skis lets you:

  • Feel how a ski responds to your speed and turn shape

  • Compare models on the same day, in the same snow

  • Discover surprises — skis you didn’t expect to love (and ones you thought you would)

That real-world feedback is something no review or recommendation can replace.

Why Same-Day Demos Are the Gold Standard

One of the biggest advantages of an on-snow demo is direct comparison. Skiing multiple models back-to-back, on the same run, in the same conditions gives you the clearest picture of what’s working — and what isn’t.

When you demo skis on different days or in different conditions, it’s easy to confuse how the ski felt with how the snow felt. Same-day demos level the playing field and make the differences obvious.

How to Demo Skis Like a Pro

A little strategy goes a long way. Here’s how we recommend approaching a demo day:

Narrow Your List

Even though it’s tempting to try everything, more isn’t always better. Information overload is real. Start with the skis you’re most interested in. You can always pivot as you learn what you like.

Pick One Test Run

Choose one run — ideally something representative of where you ski most — and test every ski on that same terrain. Consistency is key for making meaningful comparisons.

Stay Open-Minded

Come with a plan, but don’t be afraid to change it. Some skis will surprise you. Others won’t live up to the hype. That’s part of the process.

Take Notes

Your phone is your best friend. Snap photos of the skis you love (and the ones you don’t). Jot down quick impressions — even a few words helps later when everything starts to blur together.

What to Expect at One of Our Women’s Demo Days

For almost 20 years, we’ve partnered with Loveland Ski Area to host free women’s ski demo days on the first Thursday of every month from December through April — and they’re one of our favorite days on snow.

Here’s what to know before you go:

  • Bring your own alpine ski boots and poles
    Demos are compatible with Alpine or GripWalk boot sole norms. Not sure what you have? Call us — we’re happy to help.

  • Check in first
    Please complete and turn in your liability paperwork before getting in line for skis.

  • Be ready to leave ID
    A driver’s license or credit card is required while you’re out skiing.

  • One run per ski
    This keeps things moving for everyone. Love a ski? You’re welcome to come back for another lap later in the day.

  • Patience is appreciated
    These days can get busy — we promise we’re working as fast as we can to get you on snow.

Why We Love Women’s Demo Days

Demo days aren’t just about skis — they’re about confidence, community, and education. Skiing alongside other women, asking questions, and testing gear in a low-pressure environment makes the whole process more fun and far less intimidating.

And let’s be honest: ski shopping should be fun.

The Bottom Line

If you’re in the market for new skis, demoing is a must. There’s no better way to find the right ski than getting it on snow and trusting your own experience.

If you can’t make it to one of our free demo days at Loveland, you can always set up a demo out of our Vail location. Either way, we’re here to help you find skis you’ll love — not just this season, but for many seasons to come.

Come ski with us. Your next favorite skis are waiting.

 

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