Kristin Hetzer is a principal and a senior portfolio manager for Royal Palms Capital, LLC, a private investment advisory firm. When away from work, Kristin Hetzer enjoys a number of hobbies including gardening, golf, and hiking. She is also fond of skiing.

Downhill skiing, or alpine skiing, involves going downhill on runs that can be either groomed (compacted snow) or powdery (loose snow). There are several ski choices for downhill skiing.

First are all-mountain skis or carving skis. These skis can be used for both groomed and powdery terrain. They are designed to turn easily while maintaining grip on hard snow.

For variable snow conditions, all-mountain wide skis or fats are recommended. They are designed for stability when going through a mix of groomed, powdery and soft snow terrain.

For deep powder snow skiers typically go with powder skis or super fats. Designed for flotation, these skis tend to impart a surf-like feel on downhill runs.

For skiing wild, untracked terrain, backcountry skis are a good choice. These lightweight skis are meant to be carried in situations where there is no access to lifts. They are designed for powder conditions.