If you've ever spent the first half of a ski holiday just getting used to long skis, this one's for you.
Buzz blades are built around one idea: skiing should be easier and more fun, sooner. Here's why they've become a favourite for beginners, returning skiers and anyone who's hit a plateau.
Long skis take weeks of practice to master. On a typical 6-7 day holiday, that can mean a third of your time just getting comfortable, and longer if the snow or weather isn't ideal. Many long skis have so little sidecut that they feel like planks, and beginners find them cumbersome and easy to cross tips on. That's why so many learners are stuck snowploughing.
Both matter equally. Short length makes a ski easy to manoeuvre, but the turning radius is what transforms how it performs. A typical rental ski (around 160cm) has a turning radius of 14-22m, so it needs a lot of space and speed to finish a turn. The Buzz Atom has a 6.2m turning radius, so it turns tighter and faster, giving you far more control, balance and confidence. The radius is stamped on the top of the ski, so it's easy to check any ski you're considering.
Buzz Ski Blade (under 100cm). The whole Buzz 99cms range are our top recommendation for total beginners, for anyone who's skied a few times but lost confidence, and for skiers who feel stuck. The shortest model, the Buzz 99 with full release bindings, is the easiest to learn on. Progress is fast, and if you can skate, you may not even need lessons. At this length they suit green, blue and easy red runs.
Buzz Carv and Curve? The whole Atom range performs the same way and differs only in graphics, so choose the design you like best.
Blade or short ski? A quick guide
Don't assume blades are only for kids or weaker skiers. Professional alpine racers use them as training tools, and Rick has skied both lengths on black runs and bumps.
With blades, most people feel an improvement within a few hours. As your confidence grows, the skis inspire you even more. They also come into their own in poor snow and bad weather, when long skis can make life unpleasant and blades' manoeuvrability and control really shine.
Are they suitable for tall or heavy skiers? Yes. Blades work for all weights and heights.
Are they children's skis? No. Buzz skis are designed for adults and teenagers. Taller or heavier children may use them, but smaller or younger children should never use non-release-binding snowblades.
Do I need poles? It's personal choice. Rick uses them, especially for flat sections and lift queues, but plenty of people don't.
Why use a fork for soup when a spoon works better? If you're a once-a-year holiday skier, returning after a break, recovering from injury or trying to break through a plateau, Buzz blades could be the best kit decision you make.
Not sure which length suits you? Get in touch at info@theshortskishop.com and we'll happily advise.