What To Look For
Buying skis for juniors can be tricky. Kids bodies develop differently so there is no "right pair of skis" for every child. Generally speaking, because children have less body mass than adults, you will want to look for skis that are more flexible. However, even this varies; if your child is a more experienced skiier, you will want to buy him or her skis that are on the stiffer end of the spectrum,to ensure that they can handle the terrain. The smaller the child is, the more flexible their skis should be. Look for skis that are about the same height as your child from the floor to the chin. Seek out an "all mountain" ski which is good for a variety of terrain. Dynastar skis are well known for being versatile for kids of all ages and skill levels. K2 skis offer a wide footprint, which helps to guarantee a more stable ride for your child.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid junior skis that are too long. This can cause the kids to develop bad skiing habits. Avoid skis with too much shape or sidecut; these generally require about 45 lbs. of body mass to correctly shape, and young children will not weigh this much.
Where To Buy
It is best to buy junior skis at a skiing pro shop or local sporting goods store. Your child will need to try his or her skis on and stand in them to determine whether or not they are appropriate. It is also helpful to have an employee help with the fitting.
Cost
Junior skis tend to cost between $100 and $200 for a set. Most skis come with at least a year warranty. Make sure that when you purchase the skis, you understand the vendor's return policy. Most places will not accept returns if the skis have been worn.
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