How ski length is chosen
Ski length depends mostly on your height, then on your level, the type of skiing and your weight. Shorter skis turn more easily; longer skis are more stable at speed and float better in deep snow.
Alpine skis
Start from your height in centimeters, then adjust:
| Level | Adjustment | Ski tip reaches about |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | − 15 cm | chin |
| Intermediate | − 10 cm | nose |
| Advanced | − 5 cm | forehead |
| Expert | 0 cm | top of the head |
| Style | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| On-piste and all-mountain | 0 |
| Freeride and powder | + 5 cm |
| Park and freestyle | − 5 cm |
The result is a center value; a range of ±5 cm around it is normal.
Worked example
An intermediate skier who is 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) tall, skiing mostly on groomed runs:
- Height: 177.8 cm.
- Intermediate: − 10 cm → 168 cm.
- All-mountain style: no change.
- Range: 163 to 173 cm.
A heavier skier or one who likes speed could pick the upper end; a lighter or more cautious skier the lower end.
Cross-country skis
| Type | Length |
|---|---|
| Classic | height + 20 to 30 cm |
| Skate | height + 10 to 15 cm |
For classic skis, weight matters even more: the ski’s camber must hold the grip zone off the snow when you glide. Most makers give a chart by weight, which should take priority over height.
Other factors
- Weight: if you are much heavier or lighter than average for your height, go up or down by about 5 cm.
- Rocker: skis with a rockered tip ride shorter than their length, so you can choose a little longer.
- Turn radius: carving skis with a short radius are often skied shorter.
- Children: for young beginners, skis between the chest and chin are easiest to control.
Renting or buying
When renting, the shop will adjust length to your answers about level and weight. When buying, try to demo the model first; length is personal, and two skis of the same length can feel very different.