Alpine, or downhill, skiing is a sport that is easy to try but requires instruction and practice to master, explains the website KidsHealth. One part of having a successful alpine outing is finding the right size skis. Alpine ski size depends on both your size and skill level. Generally, the more you weigh, the longer your skis should be. Also, the better you are at alpine skiing, the longer your skis need to be because skiing at fast speeds produces increased vibration in the skis, which longer skis handle better, explains Ski Universe.
Step 1
Step on a scale to determine your weight, measured in pounds.
Step 2
Compare your weight to the following ski size guidelines and select a ski length within the given range for your weight. If your weight is 90 to 109 lbs., use 135 to 145 cm length skis; 110 to 129 lbs., use 145 to 155 cm length skis; 130 to 139 lbs., use 155 to 165 cm length skis, 140 to 149 lbs., use 160 to 70 cm length skis; 150 to 169 lbs., use 165 to 175 cm length skis; 170 to 179 lbs., use 165 to 180 cm length skis; 180 to 209 lbs., use 170 to 180 cm length skis; 210 to 219 lbs., use 175 to 185 cm length skis; 220 lbs. and over, use 175 to 190 cm length skis.
Step 3
Stand the ski straight up with the tail on the ground in front of you to check that the height comes to somewhere between your shoulders and eye level.
Step 4
Try different skis within your size range to find the size that feels and performs the best.
Tips and Warnings
- When purchasing skis, you also want to consider other factors like the type of alpine skiing you will be doing. Some skis perform better on well-groomed trails, while others respond better to back country conditions.
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