Ski size is the most important factor in choosing skis for yourself, whether you are renting or buying. Skis are sized in two different ways: some use a basic sizing system according to weight, while other use height to size, according to SunlightSports.com. Longer skis tend to lend themselves to higher speeds, while shorter skis are easier to control and provide better handling and performance. Of course, what you can get out of your skis depends largely on your skill level. Take all of this into consideration when choosing the best skis for you.
Step 1
Set a base ski length based on your height or, alternatively, your weight. Sizing by height usually take your height in centimeters and applies that to the length of your skis. You can make adjustments to this length in later steps based on other factors.
Step 2
Add length to your skis if you are advanced or an expert. You can add as many as 10 cm to the length of your skis. This will make the skis faster and require greater skill to maneuver the skis effectively without crashing. If you are a beginner, you may want to take a few inches off the length of your skis to make them easier to handle and reduce the speed at which you will travel.
Step 3
Size a child for skis according to his height but using a different set of standards. For children ages 6 and younger, skis should reach to their chins when the ski is stood on its tips. Older children can use skis that reach the middle of their face. Because most kids will be on gentle slopes where they can learn proper skiing techniques, the ability to turn and control the ski is much more important than gaining speed, which can be dangerous if the speeds are too much for your child to handle.
Tips and Warnings
- Find ski sizing chart that take weight into consideration at ski specialty shops or anywhere else skis are sold.
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