Probably a really stupid question...but I don't know!
Help, please.

Most hi-ratio shortenings are used specifically for icings; less greasy and makes icings more fluffy. Some popular brands are Alpine and Sweetex

Hi-ratio shortenings have particular emulsifiers that make icing less greasy. Many people prefer buttercream icing made with it versus Crisco and similar shortenings.

While we are on the subject where does everyone buy HR shortening? I haven't seen it in my local store but haven't looked in all of them. I have Bi-Lo, Food Lion, Honeys, Walmart, Sams, Harris Teeter around me. If you have any of those let me know if you know where to get it.

Can this type of shortening be frozen to increase it's shelf life? How long does it last without freezing or refrigerating it?

You can order name brands of it on-line, but I don't because the shipping to Canada is HUGE! I buy mine (store brand, so not sure of its quality) at my local Bulk Barn - a bulk food store.

I make my icing with 1/2 hi-ratio and 1/2 butter. I refrigerate it for a few weeks and freeze it (well covered) for a few months without a problem.

Still confused....

But what am I looking for on the label so I know it's hi-ratio??
ratio of what to what???

Look for the words Hi-Ratio Shortening or the brand names, like Sweetex.
Here are some on-line examples if you are a visual person!

http://www.shopbakersnook.com/m5_view_item.html?m5:item=1628

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00024WNTU/?tag=cakecentral-20

http://www.thebakerskitchen.net/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=267

Thanks, folks, I guess I'll just have to start reading labels!