How to Choose Skis for Kids

Skiing is a sport for the whole family. Whether it's time for the kids to start the joy of the sport or simply time for an upgrade from rentals, there are some important things to consider when selecting a pair of skis for the little ones.

Instructions

Selecting a Kid's Ski

1. The key things to think about when selecting skis for a child are the child's height, weight and skiing ability. Taller skiers tend to get a taller ski and the same holds true with heavier skiers. A more advanced skier may be better off on longer skis while a new skier will want a shorter ski. The shorter the ski, the easier it is to turn. A more adept skier can handle a longer ski since he or she already has basic fundamental turning skills. There is no way to stress this enough. Children on the wrong pair of skis don't learn skills as fast and simply don't have as much fun as a kid on a proper sized ski.

2. Make sure the ski has some shape to it. Shaped skis are the modern standard and anything less may be detrimental to a child's development as a skier. Modern teaching systems are all based on the shaped ski turn. Most children's skis made in the last 5 to 7 years are shaped.

3. Generally, a child who is just out on the hill for recreation needs a good all-mountain ski. Be careful of twin-tips or skis with the word "Race" on them. Twin-tips tend to be harder to turn due to the wider waist and the increased length. Race skis tend to be stiffer and harder to turn than all-mountain skis and could be too much ski for a young skier who isn't already skiing proficiently.

4. If you are stuck and have questions, ask someone who is knowledgeable about ski equipment. If you are at a ski shop, find a salesperson to learn more about kid's skis.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that the cheapest ski on the shelf may not be right ski for the child. While trying to save money is important, buying the wrong ski at the cheapest price won't make anyone happy. Look around and ask questions to get the right ski. If shopping at a ski swap, get there early for the best selection. Children's skis sell fast. If you want the skis to last more than one season, it may work to go for a longer size than normal. If a child should be skiing on a pair of 100 cm skis, going to a 110 cm ski may be fine. Just don't go too long. At the worst the skis can be sold again at a ski swap or online.

• Do not buy a ski with a bad binding. Bad bindings lead to injuries.