Choosing the right ski size is crucial for enjoying your time on the slopes and maximizing your skiing performance. Skis that are the wrong size can make learning difficult, hinder progression, and reduce overall enjoyment. While there’s no magic formula, understanding the key factors and using a Ski Size Guide will ensure you select the perfect skis for your height, ability, and skiing style. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently choose the right ski size and hit the mountain ready for fun.
Understanding Ski Size Basics
Generally, the right ski length should fall somewhere between your chin and the top of your head. Imagine standing next to your skis – the tips should reach somewhere in that range. However, this is just a starting point. Determining the ideal ski size is more nuanced than just height alone. Factors like your weight, skiing ability, and preferred style all play significant roles in finding the perfect match. Think of the chin-to-head range as a helpful ballpark, and then refine your choice based on the other considerations we’ll explore. Using a ski sizing chart is an excellent way to start narrowing down your options based on your height, but remember to consider the other factors for a truly personalized fit.
Adult Ski Size Chart: Find Your Perfect Length
The chart below provides a general guideline for adult ski sizes based on height. Use it as a starting point, and then consider the additional factors discussed later in this guide to fine-tune your selection.
| Skier Height (ft) | Skier Height (cm) | Suggested Ski Lengths (cm) | Shop Ski Lengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4’4″ | 132 | 115-130 | 130-139 |
| 4’6″ | 137 | 125-140 | |
| 4’8″ | 142 | 130-145 | 140-149 |
| 4’10” | 147 | 135-150 | |
| 5 | 152 | 135-155 | 150-159 |
| 5’2″ | 158 | 145-165 | |
| 5’4″ | 163 | 150-170 | 160-169 |
| 5’6″ | 168 | 155-175 | |
| 5’8″ | 173 | 160-180 | 170-179 |
| 5’10” | 178 | 165-185 | |
| 6′ | 183 | 170-190 | 180-189 |
| 6’2″ | 188 | 175-195 | |
| 6’4″ | 193 | 180-200 | 190-199 |
Factors Influencing Ski Size: Beyond Height
While the ski size chart provides a solid starting point, several other factors will help you determine whether to size up or down within the recommended range, or even slightly outside of it.
Ability Level: Match Your Skis to Your Skills
Your skiing ability is a major determinant in choosing the right ski length.
Beginner to Intermediate Skiers:
Beginners and intermediate skiers typically benefit from shorter skis. Shorter skis are easier to control, making turning initiation simpler and providing greater maneuverability at slower speeds. They are also more forgiving, which is beneficial when learning and developing technique. Look for skis that are at the lower end of your recommended size range.
Advanced to Expert Skiers:
Experienced and advanced skiers often prefer longer skis. Longer skis offer increased stability at higher speeds and provide better edge hold for carving. They also perform better in varied snow conditions and off-piste terrain. If you are confident in your skiing abilities and like to ski fast and aggressively, consider skis at the higher end of your size range or even slightly longer.
Skiing Style and Terrain: Where Will You Be Skiing?
The type of terrain you plan to ski most frequently should also influence your ski size choice.
Groomed Runs (Piste/Carving):
For skiers who primarily stick to groomed runs and enjoy carving, slightly shorter skis can be advantageous. They allow for quicker turns and are highly responsive edge-to-edge, perfect for carving precise arcs on hardpack snow.
Off-Piste and Powder:
If you dream of venturing off-piste into powder or variable snow conditions, longer skis are your friend. Longer skis provide increased floatation in soft snow, preventing you from sinking and making it easier to navigate deeper snow. Powder skis are designed with wider waists and often incorporate rocker profiles to further enhance floatation.
All-Mountain Versatility:
For skiers who want to explore the entire mountain and encounter a mix of groomed runs, moguls, and occasional powder, all-mountain skis are the ideal choice. These skis are designed to be versatile and perform well in a variety of conditions. Mid-length skis in your recommended range are usually suitable for all-mountain skiing.
Weight: Consider Your Body Mass
Your weight relative to your height is another important factor.
Lighter Skiers:
If you are lighter than average for your height, you might consider sizing down slightly. Shorter skis will be easier to flex and control, especially at slower speeds.
Heavier Skiers:
If you are heavier than average for your height, you’ll generally want to size up. Longer skis provide more support and stability to accommodate your weight and prevent the skis from feeling overwhelmed or unstable, particularly at speed.
Ski Type and Construction: Rocker and Camber Profiles
Ski technology has advanced significantly, and ski profiles like rocker and camber play a crucial role in how skis perform and how they should be sized.
Camber:
Traditional camber skis have an upward curve in the middle. They provide excellent edge hold, precision, and power on groomed runs. Cambered skis typically require more precise turn initiation.
Rocker (Reverse Camber):
Rocker skis, also known as reverse camber, curve upwards at the tip and tail. They excel in soft snow, making turn initiation easier and providing superior floatation. Rocker skis are more forgiving and maneuverable, especially for beginners and in powder. Because of their enhanced maneuverability, rockered skis can often be skied slightly longer than traditional camber skis.
Rocker/Flat/Rocker:
This profile combines rocker at the tip and tail with a flat section underfoot. It aims to balance the benefits of rocker (easy turning, floatation) with some of the edge hold and stability of camber. These skis offer a versatile performance across different snow conditions.
Understanding Ski Dimensions and Turning Radius
Beyond length, understanding ski dimensions and turning radius will further refine your ski selection.
Ski Dimensions (Tip, Waist, Tail):
Ski dimensions are typically represented by three numbers, for example, 115/90/107 mm. These numbers refer to the width of the ski at its widest point (tip), narrowest point (waist), and widest point at the tail.
Waist Width:
The waist width is the most commonly discussed dimension, as it significantly impacts a ski’s performance. A narrower waist (around 70-85mm) is ideal for carving and groomed runs, offering quick edge-to-edge transitions. Wider waists (90mm and above) provide better floatation in powder and softer snow. All-mountain skis typically have waist widths ranging from 80-110mm.
Turning Radius:
Turning radius refers to the shape of the ski and how tightly it turns. It is determined by the ski’s sidecut – the curve along the ski’s edge. A shorter turning radius (12-16m) indicates a ski that makes quicker, tighter turns, ideal for carving and short turns. A longer turning radius (18m+) suggests a ski that prefers longer, sweeping turns and offers more stability at high speeds.
| Turning Radius | Turn Type | Ski Type and Ability |
|---|---|---|
| <16m | Short | Carving Skis and All-Mountain/Powder Skis with Tapered Tips and Tails |
| 17-22m | Medium | All-Mountain Skis, Park & Pipe Skis |
| >22m | Long | Powder & Big-Mountain Skis |
Kids’ Ski Size Guide: Ensuring the Right Fit for Young Skiers
Choosing the correct ski size is even more critical for children. Properly sized skis will make learning easier, more enjoyable, and safer for young skiers. The principle of chest-to-nose is a helpful guide for kids’ skis. Generally, the ski length should fall between your child’s chest and nose when standing next to them.
Kids’ Ski Size Chart: Find the Right Skis for Children
Use this kids’ ski size chart as a starting point to determine the appropriate ski length for your child. Remember to consider weight and ability level, just as you would for adult skis.
| Age (yrs) | Height (in) | Height (cm) | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Ski Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 37 | 94 | 34 | 14 | 70 – 80 |
| 4 | 40 | 102 | 37 | 16 | 80 – 90 |
| 5 | 43 | 109 | 42 | 18 | 90 – 100 |
| 6 | 45 | 114 | 46 | 21 | 95 – 105 |
| 7 | 47 | 119 | 50 | 23 | 100 – 110 |
| 8 | 50 | 127 | 57 | 26 | 110 – 120 |
| 9 | 53 | 135 | 63 | 29 | 115 – 125 |
| 10 | 55 | 140 | 70 | 32 | 120 – 130 |
| 11 | 57 | 145 | 79 | 36 | 130 – 140 |
| 12 | 59 | 149 | 89 | 41 | 135 – 145 |
| 13 | 61 | 156 | 100 | 46 | 130 – 140 |
| 14 | 65 | 164 | 112 | 51 | 150 – 160 |
What if your child is between sizes?
If your child falls between two height ranges on the chart, consider their weight and skiing style. If they are lighter for their height or are beginners, opt for the shorter ski length. If they are heavier for their height or are more aggressive skiers, choose the longer length.
Reasons to size kids’ skis shorter:
- Beginner or cautious skiers
- Lighter weight for their height
- Preference for short, quick turns and slower speeds
Reasons to size kids’ skis longer:
- Skiing fast and aggressively
- Heavier weight for their height
- Desire for skis to last through growth spurts (size up cautiously, avoid excessively long skis).
Choosing Ski Poles: A Quick Guide
While ski size is paramount, ski poles are also essential for balance and rhythm. The traditional method for sizing ski poles is simple: turn the pole upside down, grip it under the basket, and place the tip on the ground. Your elbow should be bent at a 90-degree angle.
Ski Pole Size Chart: Find your Pole Length
This ski pole size chart provides an approximation based on height. Personal preference can also play a role in pole length selection.
| Skier Height (ft) | Pole Size (in) | Pole Size (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| 6’7″ + | 56 | 140 |
| 6’4″ – 6’6″ | 54 | 135 |
| 6’1″ – 6’3″ | 52 | 130 |
| 5’10” – 6’0 | 49 | 125 |
| 5’7″ – 5’9″ | 48 | 120 |
| 5’4″ – 5’6″ | 46 | 115 |
| 5’1″ – 5’3″ | 44 | 110 |
| 4’9″ – 5’0″ | 42 | 105 |
| 4’5″ – 4’8″ | 40 | 100 |
| 4’1″ – 4’4″ | 38 | 95 |
| 3’9″ – 4’0″ | 36 | 90 |
| 3’5″ – 3’8″ | 34 | 85 |
| 3’4″ | 32 | 80 |
Conclusion
Choosing the right ski size is a balance of considering your height, weight, ability level, skiing style, and the type of terrain you prefer. Use the ski size charts as valuable starting points, and then refine your decision based on the additional factors discussed in this guide. Remember, properly sized skis will enhance your control, confidence, and overall enjoyment on the mountain. Take the time to find your perfect ski size, and get ready for an incredible skiing experience!
