What is the right length of your skis?

The right length of your skis

Whether you are skiing for the first time or have been skiing for years, finding the right length of skis always takes some time. The basic rule is that skis should be 15 cm shorter than your height, but this is a very broad recommendation. It works fine if you want to ski for a day or spend a week in the Alps once a year. But if you plan to go on winter sports more often, you will surely want to find the perfect skis. The right length of skis is one of the most important factors in this choice. It's always wise to get advice from a salesperson. Tell them what you are looking for, what your ski level is, where you ski (on-/off-piste, fun park...) and what your skiing style is (lots of short turns, nice carving, etc.). Based on this information, a good shop assistant can help you out, but you can also try out different models and lengths at a rental shop.

The right ski length for beginners

Whether you rent or buy new skis, you'll always be asked about your ski level. This is because the recommended ski length for beginners differs from that for advanced skiers. Shorter skis generally turn easier than longer skis, which makes skiing easier for beginners. Also, on shorter skis, you normally ski a bit slower. The right ski length for beginners is about 10 to 20 cm shorter than body height. But again: get advice in the store or the ski rental.

The right ski length for advanced skiers

Skiers with more experience usually choose slightly longer skis. Turning with longer skis is not difficult if you have a good command of your technique. Longer skis enable you to carve long turns faster and better than on short skis. The right ski length for advanced skiers is 5 to 15 cm shorter than body height. But there are certainly exceptions. Many advanced skiers ski on skis that are longer than themselves.

Factors affecting the length of your skis

The rule of thumb that skis should be 15 cm shorter than your body height is roughly measured and omits the influence of various factors:

• Ski level: generally, beginners have shorter skis than advanced skiers. People with little ski experience are advised to choose skis 10 to 20 cm shorter than their body height. On shorter skis, they can turn more easily and learn better technique. Advanced skiers usually choose skis 5 to 15 cm shorter than their body height. With more experience and better technique, they can turn on longer skis with ease.
• Weight: weight also plays a role in finding the right length for your skis. Heavier skiers can benefit more from a longer ski than those that are very light. If you are too heavy for your skis, it will work against you and reduce your skiing pleasure.
• Skiing style: your skiing style is also a factor in choosing the right ski length. Do you like short turns? Then go for a slightly shorter ski that you can easily turn. Do you enjoy making long turns and carving? Then you will usually benefit more from a longer ski. It will help you make nice long turns and allow you to ski faster.
• The type of ski: there are different types of skis - for example, all-mountain skis, slalom skis, off-piste skis, etc. Each type has a different 'recommended length'. For example, all-mountain skis should be about the same or 10 cm shorter than body height, slalom skis should be about 15 cm shorter than body height, and off-piste skis should be the same or 10 cm longer than body height. 
• Your preferred ski terrain: this factor coincides with your chosen type of ski. If you ski a lot off-piste, you should look for a ski that is longer than you are. On the other hand, if you like tightly groomed slopes and a lot of turns, then a shorter slalom ski might be a much better choice for you.
• Personal preference: the most important factor is your personal preference. You can consider the above factors, but if you like to ski on a race ski that is longer than generally recommended, that's fine as well. The best way to find out is to try many different models, types and lengths. You'll figure out your preferences in the end.

How long should skis be for children?

The above recommendations apply to adults. The length of children's skis is a different story. Toddlers between 2 and 3 years old can use plastic skis that are attached to the snowshoes with a strap. Such skis are perfect for getting used to skiing, sliding and the snow. From shoe size 23, children can wear real ski boots and start on children's skis. The length of children's skis depends on body height, age and experience. Generally, for children aged 3 to 6, skis are the right length if they reach between the armpit and shoulders. For children aged 6 to 10, skis should come between the shoulders and the forehead.

Buying the right skis

Should one buy or rent skis? It's always a tough choice. Is it worth the investment? If you decide to buy your own skis, remember a few important things. Of course, choosing the right ski length is important, but there are other things to look out for. You can choose between different brands, ski types and models, and every ski is different. So go to a good winter sports shop and get advice from the salesperson. Tell him/her what you are looking for, what is important for you while skiing, what your budget is and how long you have been skiing (in weeks, not years). The salesperson will ask you some additional questions, and in the end, you will hopefully find the right skis. Take your time when buying skis! It's not something you do in the blink of an eye.