There are a lot of factors that can
influence your ideal ski length. Getting on the right size ski is an
important part of being comfortable and enjoying your time on the
slopes. Using the skier's height is a good starting point and taking
things into consideration like weight, ability level, terrain, and even
their personal style of skiing will help to narrow down your size range.
For most people their starting point will land somewhere between their
chin and nose. Remember, these are just guidelines, not rules. If you
have a preferred size that you are comfortable on you can certainly go
with that.
HEIGHT
|
SKI LENGTH
|
HEIGHT
|
SKI LENGTH
|
3' and below
|
65-90 CM
|
4'10"
|
130-145 CM
|
3'2"
|
80-95 CM
|
5'
|
135-150 CM
|
3'4"
|
85-100 CM
|
5'2"
|
140-155 CM
|
3'6"
|
90-105 CM
|
5'4"
|
145-160 CM
|
3'8"
|
95-110 CM
|
5'6"
|
150-165 CM
|
3'10"
|
100-115 CM
|
5'8"
|
155-170 CM
|
4'
|
105-120 CM
|
5'10"
|
160-175 CM
|
4'2"
|
110-125 CM
|
6'
|
165-180 CM
|
4'4"
|
115-130 CM
|
6'2"
|
170-185 CM
|
4'6"
|
120-135 CM
|
6'4"
|
175-190 CM
|
4'8"
|
125-140 CM
|
6'5" and up
|
180+ CM
|
Once you have established your starting point consider the following.
Ability Level
Beginner: If you are a beginner looking for a ski that
is easy to maneuver and keep in control, consider sizing down 5-10cm
from your starting point. This will usually put the ski at chin height
or a little below. This is a common practice at resorts and rental shops
as it helps to build the confidence and essential skills a skier needs
to move beyond the bunny slopes.
Intermediate: Are you an intermediate skier who has
mastered the basics but is still progressing? Choosing a size that lands
around nose height will give you the length needed for stability on
intermediate terrain but keep the skis from being too unforgiving when
mistakes are made.
Advanced: By the time skiers reach an advanced level
they usually have a good idea of what they need in a ski. A longer
length is usually preferred as conditions become more demanding and the
additional stiffness and stability are necessary. This will typically
mean a ski length that is about forehead height.
Skier Style
Conservative: If you prefer to stick to the groomers a
shorter ski may be for you. Keeping your turns short and going at a
moderate speed means that a ski at, or slightly below, chin height would
more suited to your style.
Aggressive: For skiers that just wanna go fast. If you
are spending most of your time skiing at high speeds on steep or
technical terrain, selecting a size that is closer to forehead height or
slightly above will give the added stiffness and stability that is
needed for this style.
Conditions
Groomed: For skiers that spend a majority of their day
on groomed, hard packed, or icy surfaces, going with a standard length
is best. A standard length will keep the skis maneuverable and for that
extra bit of responsiveness look for something with a normal to narrow
waist width.
Powder: When you spend a lot of time in fresh snow or
off trail, a slightly longer ski will give you that extra bit of float
to keep you moving through the deep stuff. You will also want to
consider a ski with a wider waist width that will also help you float
and keep you on the surface.
Weight
If you are above or below the average
weight for your height you should adjust your size accordingly. If you
are above the average weight for your height you can consider a longer
ski for added stability and response. If you are below the average
weight for your height you can go with a shorter ski to get the flex and
maneuverability you need.