Sidecut
This is where the revolution began ! The sidecut is defined by the width of the ski at the three main points : tip, waist and tail. In short,
the deeper the sidecut, the greater the difference between the width of the tip-tail, compared to the waist, making the ski more parabolic.
Integrated system
By fitting the ski with integrated ski-plate-bindings, manufacturers aim to get rid of the famous "hard point" created by the boot,obtaining the perfectly shaped ski when flexing. With integrated systems ski flexion is optimised to provide perfect control. On top of that, lifters enable extra power when turning.
Radius
This is the theoretical measurement of the distance of a ski when turning if it was on its edge. The radius depends on the sidecut (tip-waist-tail width). The deeper the sidecut, the smaller the radius and vice versa.
Flex
Flex is used to talk about every area of a ski's flexion. The flex determines the character of the ski, its liveliness and aggressiveness. Flex lady skis are now available for women. They take into account morphological differences and the fact that women are generally lighter than men, with a different stance on skis to men.
Short sharp turns
When you do a short sharp turn, the ski should never skid. To find out if you do short sharp turns, just look at the trail your ski leaves in the snow. It should be as sharp as a knife edge ! Practise in soft snow to begin with and move to harder snow later on.
Fore/aft imbalance
Fore/aft imbalance is when the bodyweight rests on the heels and rear of the boot. This change in fore/aft balance makes greater use of the tail of the ski, allowing it to take more control. The tip no longer acts as the ski's " steering wheel ". This often happens with beginner skiers and to try to avoid it lady skis have been created, offering better skiability and faster progress.