How to Size Alpine Skis

When shopping for skis, sizing them is critical to how they will feel on your feet and perform on the hill. Skis need to be sized both by width and length to get the optimum performance. Several factors will decide how you size your skis, including your ability, the terrain you plan to ski and your weight. Additionally, the type of snow you usually ski on is important. Many advanced skiers buy multiple models to deal with different types of conditions and mountains.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the ski shape first. Twin tip skis, reverse camber skis, and traditional skis all have their uses. Twin tips are popular in powder and in the terrain park, as they let you ski backwards. Reverse camber skis, which look like a banana, are ideal for powder, while traditionally cut skis are good for a wide range of applications.

    • 2

      Choose a width. Narrow-waisted skis (under 80cm) are ideal for icy conditions and packed powder. Many racers choose narrow waisted skis. All-mountain skis are generally sized in 80-90mm for Eastern skiers and 90-100mm for Western skiers. For powder, skis over 110mm are ideal.

    • 3

      Choose a length. Longer skis will be more stable at high speed and float more easily in deeper snow. Shorter skis are more nimble and ideal for tight turns, especially near trees. Advanced skiers generally prefer longer skis for the added stability.

    • 4

      Check the sidecut. The more sidecut a ski has, the more easy it is to turn. Sidecut is defined as the difference between the tip, the waist and the tail. Hourglass-shaped skis are very easy to turn, while skiers who prefer to straightline the slope will prefer a ski with less sidecut.