How to Size Women's Skis

While some expert women skiers prefer men's skis, which are generally stiffer, most women will find that women's-specific models suit them better. Women's skis generally have a softer flex to accommodate a woman's lesser weight and are designed to have the bindings mounted a little forward of center to better work with a woman's lower center of gravity, which often causes her to lean back a little while skiing. Sizing women's skis depends on several factors.

Things You'll Need

  • Height
  • Weight
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Instructions

    • 1

      Research what type of terrain you will be skiing on most. Western skiers prefer fatter skis, which float in better, while Eastern skiers like narrower skis that transition quickly from edge to edge on hard-packed and icy snow.

    • 2

      Talk to the salesperson about your skiing style, or research the skis online to see how they fit with your skiing. Women who ski faster will prefer longer skis, while those who want to make a lot of turns, or intermediates, prefer something shorter.

    • 3

      Check the suggested weight ranges for the skis you are considering, either with the salesperson or the company's website. Your own height has little to do with the length ski you should get; weight is far more important. Heavier skiers will want something a little longer, which will provide more flotation.

    • 4

      Hold the ski up next to your body. For most skiers, the range of ski size should be between your chin and your forehead. Shorter skis are less stable at speed, but turn quickly; longer skis are stable and provide better flotation in deeper snow.