The type of skis used depends on the type of activity the skier is doing as well as the type of terrain the skier is using. For example, fancy freestyle moves require narrow tipped skis, while alpine touring skiing calls for wide, short skis. Some of the different types of skis include alpine, cross country, overland, telemark, alpine touring, twin-tip and monoskis.

The main difference between cross country skis and alpine, or downhill, skis is that the cross country ski has the heels of the boot free, while the toe is attached to the ski. The entire boot is connected to the ski in alpine skis. The main reason for the difference is that the cross country skier must ascend as well as descend terrain.

Overland touring skis are designed for use on rolling hills. Both waxable and non-waxable versions of overland touring skis are available. Inexperienced skiers are usually better off with non-waxed skis as waxed skis can be more difficult to use. Wide overland touring skis are used for deep snow in backcountry regions, while narrow versions can be used for both deep snow and set ski tracks.

Telemark skis are often metal-edged and are available in racing styles. Varieties for different types of snow such as hard pack and powder are also available in telemark skis. Telemark beginners are often advised to use soft-flex telemark skis with a broad tip, narrow waist, and broad tail for easier turns.

Alpine touring skis are lightweight and shorter as well as wider than most other skis, to allow tight turns on hard snow. Alpine touring skis are designed for steep slopes and mountain snow conditions. Soft snow versions of alpine touring skis are also available. Many alpine touring skis include a notch at the tail as well as a tip in the hole of the ski. Climbing skins - material attached to the bottom of skis to add more glide - can be attached to the notch, and the hole can be used to insert rope or other material if the skis are used in their rescue sled form.

Twin-tip skis are narrow at both ends to allow for easier spins and backwards take offs. Twin-tip skis are used in free ride skiing on non-groomed snow and all terrain. Twin-tip skis are also used in free style skiing with its emphasis on jumps, spins, and flips.

Monoskis are made up of one ski rather than a set of two. A monoski is similar to what a very wide snowboard with a seat would look like. Ski bindings are placed side by side on a monoski. Some skiers say that monoskis put less pressure on the knee than conventional skis.