Mens slalom race skis are 12m to 13m radius. Modern skis with side radius of up to 16m are capable of shortish carved turns, but the smaller the radius, the easier it is to learn. Newer skis with tip rocker, or early rise tips make initiation of carved turns easier, as it isn't as important to weight the front of the ski, as it used to be. Having said that, being able to load the front of the ski will shorten turns, and give more control. Carving is really more about technique,than choice of ski.
