Cross-country skiing is a popular aerobic activity that works many parts of your body. As with any type of workout, it's important that you choose the right equipment to ensure a proper workout and prevent injuries. In the past, skiers would hold their arm in the air and measure the distance from their wrist to the ground to determine the proper ski length, according to backcountry.com. This method did not always lead to an accurate proper ski length. Today, you can use a mathematical formula to determine the proper ski length.
Step 1
Determine whether you are sizing traditional cross-country skis or skating skis, which is a newer type of ski that skiers use to propel themselves in a manner similar to in-line skating. The formula for finding the right ski length is different for each type of ski.
Step 2
Convert your height into inches by multiplying your foot height by 12 and adding the inches. For example, a person who is 5 feet 11 inches tall would calculate (5 x 12) + 11. The result is 71 inches.
Step 3
Calculate the proper traditional cross country-ski length by multiplying your height in inches by 2.6 and adding 25 to the result. For our example, the formula is (71 x 2.6) + 25. The answer is 209.6. Please note that this does not mean the proper ski length for you is more than 17 feet. The number derived from the formula is the proper length in centimeters.
Step 4
Find the proper skating cross-country ski length by multiplying your height in inches by 2.6 and adding 15 to the result. For our example, the formula is (71 x 2.6) + 15. The answer is 199.6. As in Step 3, note that the resulting number is the proper centimeter length.
Step 5
Round the ski size up if you are a heavier skier or round down if you are a lighter skier, according to the Ski Post website. Most calculations will not result in a whole number and will require you to round either up or down.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider consulting a professional when choosing your ski size. A professional may take additional factors into consideration when helping you choose a ski size, including weight and experience.
Things You'll Need
- Calculator
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