Selecting the correct size for a pair of downhill skis involves blending several components such as skier height, snow conditions, expected speed and the quest for maneuverability. This is why serious downhill skiers will often have three or more pairs of skis in their collection so they can match their equipment to the mountain and how fast and maneuverable they want to ski for the day.
Step 1
Measure your weight and match it with the appropriate ski length according to the manufacturer's chart. Skis can be matched to the skier's weight and will provide a range of three ski sizes for each 10-lb. weight increment.
Step 2
Measure the novice skier's height from the floor to the base of the chin in centimeters. Using height will narrow the ski length selection from that determined by weight. If the tape measure is in inches rather than centimeters, convert the measurement by multiplying the height by 2.54. For example, 60 inches would be multiplied by 2.54 to total 152.4 cm. For intermediate skiers, measure from the floor to the eyebrows. More advanced skiers should take a higher measurement to the top of the head, or slightly above.
Step 3
Round the height measurement's last digit to the nearest zero or five to match the downhill ski length. Using the novice measurement of 152.4 cm, round the figure to 150 cm. Downhill ski lengths start at 90 cm and go to 190 cm in 5 cm increments.
Step 4
Consult the ski shop staff if the ski size determined by your weight and height are not in close proximity. Your experience and skiing style will then be given more consideration to determine the appropriate downhill ski length.
Tips and Warnings
- Experienced skiers should use these measurements as starting points and choose longer or shorter skis based on their history and preferences.
- Don't oversell your skiing abilities when selecting downhill skis. When in doubt, downgrade your talents so you will have skis that allow you more control and stability.
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