What Length of Skis Should I Rent?

To make the most of your skiing experience, you'll need to select the right length for your skis. This depends on your height, weight and skill level. The typical ski has gotten shorter over time with the advent of the hourglass ski shape, which allows for a wider and larger surface area.

  1. Skill level

    • A general rule for selecting ski length is that you want the longest skis you can handle comfortably. For beginners, the skis should come up to the chin, whereas intermediate skiers should select skis that come up to the nose. More advanced skiers can go for skis that come all the way up to the forehead. If you aren't sure, it's best to err on the shorter side so that you feel comfortable.

    Weight

    • The skier's weight is also a factor. Heavier skiers should go for a longer ski, and lighter skiers should go shorter. This is because heavier skiers can turn longer skis more easily than lighter skiers. Lighter skiers, especially petite women, need skis that are more responsive, which is why shorter skis are best for you if you're on the lighter end of the weight spectrum.

    Type of skiing

    • The length of ski you select also depends on the kind of skiing you want to do. This factor is related to your personal style as a skier. If you get a thrill out of speed and wide turns, go for longer skis that will give you a larger surface area with which to work. If you prefer to ski at a more moderate pace and tend toward tighter turns, go for shorter skis.

    Straight skis

    • Many older skis don't have the hourglass shape. If you're renting straight skis, this will affect the length of ski you choose. For comparison, men's skis used to start at 175 cm and go up from there; now they tend to stay between 155 cm and 175 cm. Women's skis went from 160 cm to 180 cm, whereas now they range from 140 cm to 160 cm. Keep this in mind when buying or renting older skis.