Finding the right ski length

You may know the rule of thumb that the ideal ski length is somewhere between your chin and forehead. But it's not just about height!

The right size is very individual and several factors play an important role:

• Your height
• Your weight
• Your skiing ability
• Your favourite terrain
• Your riding style

But don't worry, our comprehensive ski sizing guide will help you find the right ski model for you in no time!

You are also welcome to visit one of our more than 800 INTERSPORT Rent shops - Our winter sports experts will provide you with personalized advice and suitable rental equipment and accessories.

As already mentioned, the general rule of thumb is that the ski tips should end somewhere between the chin and forehead. Below you will find size charts[AW1] , which will give you an initial indication.
However, this information is only a rough guide. Whether you choose longer or shorter skis is a matter of personal preference and depends on the following factors:

Shorter skis are ...

• more suitable for beginners because they are easier to control.
• suitable for light weight riders.
• easier to manoeuver and more agile.
• better suited for fast, tight corners and short turns.
• easier to handle in technically challenging terrain.

Longer skis are ...

• more suitable for advanced and experienced skiers.
• ideal for heavier riders.
• more stable at higher speeds.
• better for fast and aggressive skiing.
• ideal for long, wide turns.
• better in deep powder because they provide better flotation.

The optimum ski length varies depending on your preferred terrain and skiing style. Here are our specific recommendations for different areas of use:

Who: Skiers who mainly ski on groomed slopes and are less inclined to make fast turns.

Beginners and advanced:

• Choose a pair of skis that is about 10 cm shorter than you!

• This gives you better control of the skis and makes turns easier.

• This offers more safety when learning the technique.

Experienced skiers and professionals:

• Choose a pair of skis that is about 5 cm shorter than your height!

• This gives you a better carving feel and more control, allowing you to make more precise turns at higher speeds.

Who: Skiers who are comfortable on and off-piste and are looking for comfort and safety.

Beginners and advanced:

• Your skis should be 5 to 10 cm shorter than your height.

• These dimensions are ideal for about 80 % on-piste and 20 % off-piste skiing.

• They also offer a good balance between control and versatility.

Experienced skiers and professionals:

• Choose skis that are approximately your height or up to 5 cm shorter!
• Ideal for about a 50:50 ratio on and off-piste.

• Provides both precise carving and enough flotation in deep powder.

Good to know: Are you still looking for the perfect all-mountain skis for your needs? Read our Buyers Guide for all-mountain skis now! We have summarised all the important information for you.

Who: Skiers who like to experience the backcountry to the fullest and enjoy untracked terrain.

Beginners and advanced freeriders:

• Choose skis that are about 5 cm shorter than you!
• Facilitates control in challenging terrain.
• Enables faster learning of the deep snow techniques.

Experienced skiers and professionals:

• Choose skis that are roughly your height or up to 10 cm longer!
• The width of the ski should be between 90 and 120 mm.
• Offers maximum flotation in deep powder and stability at high speeds.

Our recommendation: You can find even more tips on how to choose the right freeride skis for your needs in our Buyers Guide for freeride skis.

Who: Winter sports enthusiasts who want to go on longer tours with lighter skis.

Advanced and professional:

• Choose skis that are 5 to 10 cm shorter than you.
• Offer maximum versatility and lightness.
• Enable efficient ascent and safe descent in varied terrain.

More information: Need a little more inspiration? Take a look at our Buyers Guide for touring skis!

Men's often higher body weights and greater average power development play a role in determining the correct ski length. Men may tend to choose slightly longer skis than the height formula alone would dictate, especially if...

• The body weight is above average.
• An athletic driving style is favoured.
• You are intermediate or pro and already have advanced skiing abilities.
   

The right ski length for women should consider physiological differences. Women often have a lower center of gravity and, on average, less body mass than men of the same height. Therefore, the following recommendations apply:

• If you are a woman, choose a shorter ski than a man of the same height.
• Consider your individual fitness and strength.

• Look for special women's models designed for your needs.
   

Choosing the right ski size for kids can be even more challenging than for adults. After all, they grow so fast! As a rule of thumb, the size of the ski should be between the child's chest and nose.

Is this too inaccurate for you? The best way to get a more accurate determination is to do the following:

• Determine your child's height and weight.
• Then have a look in the size chart for children for an initial guide.

Consider additional factors:

• Choose a shorter ski if your child is very light, a beginner or prefers to ski slowly.
• Choose a longer ski if your child is rather heavy, is an advanced skier or likes to ski fast.

Important to note: For kids, the focus is on safety and simply learning the right skiing technique. Skis that are too long make learning more difficult and can lead to frustration. It's better to choose something shorter and make skiing fun!

You can also read more about this in our article on the right length for kids skis or directly in your local INTERSPORT Rent Shop!

The right ski length is a decisive factor for your skiing pleasure. It not only improves your performance on the slopes but also increases your safety and the fun factor. Always remember that the choice is individual and depends on your personal skiing style, ability and area of use.

A well chosen ski model will help you become an expert skier and give you unforgettable days in the snow!

Carving skis should be selected based on ability and intended use. For beginners, we recommend a length about 15 cm shorter than your height. Advanced skiers should choose skis that are 5-10 cm shorter than their height. Intermediate and advanced skiers can choose carving skis that are up to or slightly shorter. The slimmer waist of carving skis allows for precise turns and good edge grip even in shorter lengths.

Skis that are too short can have several disadvantages:

• Less stability at higher speeds
• Less smoothness on hard slopes
• Weaker edge grip in icy conditions
• Less lift in deep snow
• Poorer performance on long, wide turns
• Progression may be limited for advanced skiers

Try different models at INTERSPORT Rent to find the right skis for you!