Have you saved up to buy a new pair of skis? That’s great! Maybe you already have a certain product in mind, but: Do you also know what length your skis should be?
You might have heard that the ideal ski length is somewhere between your chin and the top of your head. However, there’s much more to finding the right ski length than just your height!
Choosing proper length skis is highly individual, with your height, weight, skill level and preferred terrain all playing an important role. Sounds complicated? Don’t worry: With our ski sizing guide, you will find the right ski length in no time at all!
The right ski length for your needs: getting started
As mentioned above, the general rule is that the tips of your skis should end somewhere between your chin and the top of your head. You can find numerous size charts online that give you an idea of what length to look for.
However, these size charts are only a starting point. Among other things, the decision to size up or down is a matter of personal preference.
Shorter skis are …
- more suitable for beginners
- better for riders with a low weight
- easier to manoeuvre
- better suited for making quicker turns
Longer skis are …
- more suitable for advanced skiers
- better for heavy riders
- more stable
- better for skiing fast and aggressively
- great for making longer turns
Choosing your ski length by your preferred terrain
On-piste
Who: leisure skiers who stick to the groomed slopes and are less likely to make fast turns
Beginners to intermediate:
- Go for a ski that’s about 10 cm shorter than you. It gives you better control and progression and allows for easier turns.
Advanced to expert:
- Choose skis that are about 5 cm shorter than you to benefit from a better carving sensation, more control and speed.
All-mountain
Who: riders who are at ease both on- and off-piste and are looking for comfort and safety
Beginners to intermediate:
- Your skis should be 5 to 10 cm shorter than your height. This works best for 80 % piste skiing and 20 % off-piste skiing.
Advanced to expert:
- Choose skis that are roughly the same height as you or up to 5 cm shorter. This works best for 50:50 on-piste and off-piste skiing.
Good to know: If you’re looking for even more information on finding the perfect all-mountain ski for your needs, check out our buyer’s guide for all-mountain skis!
Freeride
Who: off-piste adventurers who love powder and playful skiing
Beginners to intermediate:
- Go for skis that are about 5 cm shorter than you.
Advanced to expert:
- Choose skis that are about your height or up to 10 cm longer. The width of your ski should be between 90 and 120 mm.
Our tip: You can find even more tips on finding freeride skis to suit your needs in our buyer’s guide for freeride skis.
Touring
Who: winter sports athletes who want to explore wide spaces with skis that are lighter than freeride skis
Advanced to expert:
- Go for skis that are 5 to 10 cm shorter than your height to enjoy maximum versatility and lightness.
Even more info: You need a bit more inspiration? Check out our buyer’s guide for touring skis!
And what about children’s skis?
Choosing the right length skis for children can be even trickier than for adults. After all, the little ones are constantly growing! However, as a rule of thumb, you should choose skis that come up somewhere between your kid’s chest and nose.
To make a more accurate choice, follow these steps:
- Measure your child’s height and weight.
- Find their recommended ski length in an online size chart.
- Go for a shorter ski if your child is very light, a beginner or likes to ride at slower speeds.
- Go for a longer ski if your child is heavy for their height, an advanced skier or likes to ski at greater speeds.
For more detailed information, check out our article on the ideal length for children’s skis!
INTERSPORT Rent tip
Are you lost in the ski sizing jungle? Don’t despair! The RENTertainers at our more than 800 rental shops in Europe and Canada will help you find the perfect ski length in no time at all.
Plus, they’ll be happy to recommend the best accessories and other rental gear to go with your new skis. Drop by and discover our huge selection of top-class rental equipment for on- and off-piste skiing!
