A week of morning lessons and easy afternoon laps on groomers is where the Shape V2 R Ski + Joy 9 Slr Binding + Cruise Boot earns its keep as a beginner ski package. The Head ski's rockered tip rises off the snow so turns start without effort, and its short turn radius shapes round, steady arcs while the edge keeps biting into groomed snow. The Head binding releases the boot in a twisting fall, and the Nordica Cruise boot bends easily at the shin while its roomy shape leaves the toes uncrowded. A light ski and binding, plus a boot that slips on and off easily, leave the legs and feet in better shape for the last lap.