They will usually have a good idea of area trail and snow conditions. Equipment Backcountry skiing in the Adirondacks is as varied as a leisurely beginner ski-walk on an old road or an all day mountaineering ski adventure in the High Peaks. We joke at Garnet Hill that you need five pair of skis, four pair of boots and a bunch of different ski poles to match all the ski conditions and terrain in the Adirondacks. As soon as conditions become less than ideal or the terrain becomes more difficult, you need bigger, beefier stuff. Bring out the metal edge skis and big boots.
Ability also plays a big role in backcountry ski equipment selection.
I've seen skilled skiers ascend and descend Mt. Marcy on very lightweight touring skis and boots. Beginners should opt for metal edges and big boots. Some of the newer short-wide metal edge skis work great on narrow trails. Take all the advantage you can get. The energy saved by using lighter equipment is quickly used up in repeated falls.