How To Choose Skis
Height, weight, terrain, skill level, riding style, and personal preference all play in a role in finding the perfect ski. Generally, your height and weight may determine a good size range of ski you'll fit into, and then other factors determine if you should go on the shorter, or longer, side. Let's see how these elements interact to help you make the best choice
Height and Weight
- Height: Taller skiers may generally find longer skis provide added stability and performance on the slopes, while shorter skiers may favor more maneuverable shorter skis.
- Weight: Your weight can impact the flex and responsiveness of the skis. Heavier skiers may benefit from stiffer skis, while lighter individuals might prefer softer, more forgiving skis.
| YOUR HEIGHT | SKI LENGTH | ||
| BEGINNER | INTERMEDIATE | EXPERT | |
| 4' 4" | 120 | 130 | 138 |
| 4' 6" | 125 | 135 | 143 |
| 4' 8" | 130 | 140 | 148 |
| 4' 10" | 135 | 145 | 153 |
| 5' | 140 | 150 | 158 |
| 5' 2" | 145 | 155 | 163 |
| 5' 4" | 150 | 160 | 168 |
| 5' 6" | 155 | 165 | 173 |
| 5' 8" | 160 | 170 | 178 |
| 5' 10" | 165 | 175 | 183 |
| 6' | 170 | 180 | 188 |
| 6' 2" | 175 | 185 | 190+ |
| 6' 4" | 180 | 190 | 190+ |
Skill Level and Ski Length
- Beginner to Intermediate: If you're new to skiing or an intermediate skier, consider slightly shorter skis for easier control and maneuverability.
- Advanced and Expert: Experienced skiers may prefer longer skis for added stability and speed, ideal for tackling challenging terrains and conditions.
Riding Style and Ski Length
- Carving and Speed: If you're all about carving down the mountain and reaching high speeds, longer skis can provide the stability you need for these pursuits.
- Maneuverability and Tricks: If you enjoy tricks, jumps, and quick maneuvers, shorter skis, like those designed for park riding, offer the agility and responsiveness required.
Terrain and Ski Type
- Groomed Runs: If you primarily ski on groomed slopes, consider all-mountain skis. These versatile skis are excellent for stable and enjoyable rides on packed snow.
- Powder Enthusiast: For deep powder and off-piste adventures, opt for powder skis. Their wider and longer design keeps you afloat in deep, untracked snow.
- Park and Tricks: If you love terrain park action, park skis are designed for jumps, rails, and tricks. They are more maneuverable for quick, precise movements.
Personal Preference
- Comfort is Key: Ultimately, trust your comfort and personal preference. Your satisfaction on the slopes is crucial, so experiment with different lengths and types of skis to discover what feels best for you.
Whether you're seeking an all-mountain adventure, powder thrills, terrain park tricks, or simply the joy of cruising groomed runs, your skis should align with your unique skiing persona. Have any further questions? Please feel free to give us a call!
