Ski equipment for kids: How to find the perfect set

Children need very different equipment depending on their age, size and ability. For the little ones, it's important that everything is light and comfortable. For older kids, on the other hand, ski equipment should offer more stability, control and performance. We have listed everything here clearly according to the age of the slope racers:

• Skis: Learning skis or "sliders" are best suited for small children. They use them to learn how to "walk" and glide in the snow.
• Ski boots: Ones with just one buckle are particularly practical for young beginners.
• Ski gloves: Warm mittens with a long cuff keep them dry and are easy to put on.
• Poles: They are not yet needed at this age. First it´s all about the right balance.
• Helmet: A particularly lightweight ski helmet provides protection without weighing down the head.
• Ski goggles: A suitable, soft model that fits well protects sensitive eyes from the sun and snow.

• Skis: From this age, you can start to hone your little one's technique. The right ski length is particularly important. Depending on ability, it should be around 10 to 15 cm shorter than your child's height. Advanced slope racers can choose models that are only 5 cm shorter to increase speed and precision.
• Ski boots: Depending on their skiing ability, choose ski boots with a softer or firmer flex for your little ones. The more experienced the kids are, the higher the flex should be.
• Ski gloves: Mittens are warmer, while finger gloves offer a little more flexibility. When it comes to ski gloves for your older kids, it's important to prioritise.
• Poles: Depending on their ability, it makes sense for your child to ski with poles at this age. However, make sure they are the right length and check this using the angle method, for example.
• Helmet: A sturdy, size-adjustable helmet with good ventilation offers protection and comfort even at higher speeds.
• Ski goggles: Children's goggles with a large field of vision and UV protection improve visibility, especially in changing light conditions. If your kid wears optical glasses, OTG ski goggles or a ski helmet with visor are definitely worth considering.
• Protector: A lightweight back protector increases safety, especially on sportier rides or in the fun park.

When buying ski equipment for children, the following applies: fit before growth. Equipment that is too big or too small impairs safety, motivation and learning progress. Don't wait for your child to "grow into it".

Youngsters taller than 1.50 metres and weighing over 45 kilograms can switch to adult skis.

But before you invest in a new set, think about how often your child actually skis. It's often not worth buying ski equipment for kids for a fortnight a year. Renting is then the flexible and sustainable option.

By the way: At INTERSPORT Rent, children get their ski equipment for free when parents rent theirs!

Children grow quickly and often the equipment is already too small after one season. So what makes more sense: buying new equipment every season or simply renting the equipment locally - for example at one of the 800 INTERSPORT Rent shops in Europe and Canada?

Rental ski equipment is worthwhile if...

• ... your kid only skis occasionally, about 2 weeks a year or less.
• ... you want to be able to exchange the equipment flexibly at any time.
• ... you value well-maintained and up-to-date gear.
• ... you want to benefit from our attractive offers for families.

Buying ski equipment is worthwhile if...

• ... you ski very regularly.
• ... you can pass the equipment on to younger kids.
• ... you value a personalised set.
• ... you have no problem of regularly taking care of maintenance, edge service, etc.

Your children's ski equipment should be checked at least once a season. Kids often grow quickly, which means that boot size, weight and skiing behaviour are constantly changing. Bindings, boots and boards should be checked and adjusted in a timely manner by a specialist retailer. Kid’s skis and snowboards also need well-maintained edges and bases to guarantee optimum skiing behaviour on groomed slopes.

A lightweight back protector makes sense from the age of around 7, especially for sporty kids. However, more important than age is the skiing ability and therefore the associated speed and severity of possible falls. Especially in the fun park, a protector safeguards the sensitive spine without restricting mobility.

Yes, functional socks wick away moisture and prevent creasing in the boot. Normal thick cotton socks, on the other hand, retain moisture and favour friction and pressure points - this quickly leads to cold feet and can make a day's skiing unpleasant.

Good care extends the lifespan of kid’s equipment considerably. Clean the skis or snowboard thoroughly with a damp cloth and allow them to dry completely. We then recommend a professional service at INTERSPORT Rent - where the bases are waxed and edges are sharpened so that they are well protected over the summer and the gear is ready for immediate use next season.

Clean your ski boots, helmet and clothing thoroughly. After final drying, put the inner boots back in without creases and close the buckles loosely - this way the boot retains its shape. Then store all your equipment dry, cool and protected from light so that everything is perfectly prepared for the next season!