It's hard to blame new skiers for wanting more out of their beginning skis, especially when you consider the expenses of lessons, gear and (sometimes…) food and lodging. Salomon's all-mountain Siam N5 ski with integrated Smartrak 609 Ti binding delivers more of everything, although it still remains rooted in stability and predictable performance. Up front you'll find that the 609 Ti bindings are mounted eight millimeters further forward than traditional unisex skis to improve turn initiation, control and balance in a way that's matched to your physical proportions. Compared to the top-shelf Siam skis, Salomon ramped down the high-octane features in the Siam N5, although it keeps the stability so you'll feel a little more confident when you bite off more run than you can chew. The Siam N5's M (for Medium) chassis offers a degree of float in powder conditions, but the narrower 70-mm. waist on the XW 5 makes it better suited for hardpack and groomed carving. The integrated Smartrak 609 bindings are everything a new skier needs, especially when you consider that the Siam N5's UHMW Graphite base delivers substantial speed when matched with the right wax. The 609 binding features Salomon's new Sport Toe enhancement to enhance the safety of a vertical release out of the binding. We're also throwing in a matching set of Salomon aluminum-shaft Arctic poles, so you're good to go once you figure out the boots, jacket, pants, gloves and helmet--but we'll certainly help you with all that, too.
Review 'Salomon Women's Siam N5 Skis w/ Smartrak 609 Ti Binding and Arctic Poles'
