Skiing is a fun way for your family to stay fit together during the cold winter months. If your kids are ready to hit the slopes, take the time to choose equipment that's small enough for them to handle safely. Improperly sized skis will likely make skiing more difficult for your child and could leave them too frustrated to enjoy themselves. When choosing skis for children, consider factors like size, price, design and maintenance requirements before making your final purchase decision.
Step 1
Ask your child what type of skiing he is interested in. Some children may be excited about downhill skiing, while others prefer racing or touring in the backcountry using cross-country skis. If you plan to ski as a family, narrow your search between these types of skis based on where you plan to ski.
Step 2
Measure from the floor to your child's chin using a tape measure, then multiply by 2.54 to convert this figure to centimeters. Skier Net recommends buying skis that extend to about the height of your child's chin when choosing alpine or downhill skis.
Step 3
Multiply your child's height by 2.54, then add 10 cm to 30 cm to this number when choosing cross-country skis for older children. In general, longer skis work best for heavier kids, while shorter skis are easier for small children to maneuver. If your child is younger than 5 years old, Akers Cross Country Ski Equipment recommends skis that are the same height as your child.
Step 4
Examine different sets of skis to check the width and sidecut. According to eBay, skis that are wider along the center help beginners maintain control, while narrower skis allow more advanced skiers to improve speed and turns. When comparing ski widths, check the depth of the curve along the sides of each ski. Kids who are new to skiing should choose skis with a shallow curve, or sidecut, while intermediate or advanced skiers can look for a deeper sidecut.
Step 5
Look for waxless skis for kids younger than 5. The New England Nordic Ski Association suggests young children use waxless skis, which feature a built-in pad to add traction. Older kids can use waxable skis, which offer better performance but also require regular maintenance.
Step 6
Buy used skis or look for package deals. The Canadian Ski Council recommends parents buy affordable skis for kids instead of investing in more expensive models. The Council warns against buying skis at yard sales as skis that are more than a few years old will make it difficult for your child to ski. Instead, participate in ski swaps or ask local ski shops about buying used equipment. Another option is to look for package deals, which include skis, boots and bindings for a reduced cost.
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