How to Size Skis

In the days of traditional straight skis, skis came in two basic types: downhill and cross country. Within these categories, sizing was based primarily on height. Generally, ski length ranged between the chin and the top of the head, with experts going longer. However, with new technologies and materials, the rules have changed. Sizing now must take into account a number of variables and preferences, from body weight to terrain to ski composition. Although there are guidelines that can help you narrow down your choice, your best resource will be a size chart for the model you are considering buying.

Things You'll Need

  • Your weight
  • Your height in centimeters
  • Size chart for the type of skis you wish to purchase
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine your skill level. If you are a beginner, you will generally need shorter, fatter skis for greater control and ease of turning; a more advanced skier will probably want longer skis for greater stability. If you plan to do a lot of skiing -- say, 30 days in a season or more -- you may want to purchase a ski geared to a higher skill level than your current one, since how often you ski is the biggest determinant of ultimate skill.

    • 2

      Determine the type of skiing you will do. Will it be cross-country or downhill? Rough or easy terrain? Beginners' slopes or "off-piste" (off-trail) back-country skiing? There are many options. Cross-country skis require a different binding -- with the heel always able to lift freely -- than the stationary downhill binding, and cross-country skis are generally longer and narrower than the downhill variety.

    • 3

      Pick a range of models to look at, based on your preliminary skill and usage assessment. This will likely require some research, or a consultation with a knowledgeable skiing outfitter.

    • 4

      Base your initial determination of ski size on your body weight and skill assessment. In general, an average skier who weighs 100 lbs. should look at a 140 cm ski as a starting size, with target ski length going up in increments based on weight. Thus, at 110 to 125 lbs., a starting length would be 145 cm; 150 cm for 125 to 136 lbs.; 155 cm for 136 to 150 lbs.; 160 cm for 150 to 165 lbs.; 165 cm for 165 to 180 lbs.; 175 cm for 180 to 190 lbs.; and 185 cm for 190 to 200 lbs.

    • 5

      Add or subtract centimeters from the starting length based on your skill level. For a beginner, subtract 10 cm from the starting length. Subtract 5 cm if you are an intermediate skier, and none if you are an advanced recreational skier. An expert skier can add about 5 cm to the base length, while a specialist skier -- one who is highly skilled and fit, and skis every day -- can add 10 cm to the starting length.

    • 6

      Refine the ski measurements based on additional variables. These include the ski model, composition and width. Once you get to this point, a size chart for the model you are looking at becomes indispensable.