How to Buy Skis for Kids
A family ski trip to the top of snow-capped mountains can not only produce wonderful memories, but also a special bond created by having fun and facing challenges together. Families who enjoy hitting the slopes several times a year can save money by purchasing skis rather than renting them, a task that may seem more looming than a mountain range for quickly growing kids. The process of buying children's skis, however, is relatively easy, and many shops offer trade-in programs so parents of growing feet aren't always facing a growing price tag.
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Instructions
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Choose a ski that falls between the child's chin and eyebrow when standing on its end. Children will have fewer options in ski designs, and many will want to choose their skis based on aesthetics, according to Gil Murray, a 30-year ski industry veteran and co-owner of Ski Frisco Sports in Frisco, Texas. This should not be a problem, however, as most children's skis are designed with a glass-wrapped foam core.
"It's a less expensive way to make a ski, but kiddos are not as discerning as an adult [as long as] it slides," Murray said.
Several manufacturers make good skis for children, Murray said, but he recommends Dynastar or K2. -
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Choose a binding that fits the child's weight range. Smaller children will require toddler or junior bindings, which fit children's ski boots. Depending on the size of a child's foot, she may require adult boots and an adult binding, fitted to a smaller ski. Some bindings are made to accommodate both junior and adult boots with the flip of a switch.
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Select a boot with enough room to grow, but snug enough for safety. Murray first tests for a proper boot size by having children place their foot in a boot shell without a liner, sliding the foot forward and checking how much extra space is available in the back. If it falls in the appropriate range, the liner is placed back in for fitting. Murray then recommends placing a hand in the back of the boot to see if the boot can slide off. If it can, it's too big.
"It's easy to cautiously upsize a child in boots, but you don't want to get them too big," Murray said. -
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Look for a ski exchange program that grows with the child. Many parents may think it's easier to rent skis for quickly growing feet, but many shops offer programs that allow parents to trade in equipment that's become too small for a larger version or for store credit. Renting may be economical for families who ski 10 or fewer days out of the year, according to snow sports website OnTheSnow.com, but those who hit the slopes more often may find purchasing their equipment--and frequently trading it in--a better value.
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Tips & Warnings
New skiers may find their first ski trip less challenging if they practice putting the boots and skis on at home before attempting it on the slope. Murray recommends finding an open space to allow children to practice walking with skis and getting a feel for them at home, making the family vacation a little less stressful. "When they get to the hill, all that mystery and all that confusion gets minimized, because you're so excited to be in a ski area with mom and dad," Murray said. Families with multiple children should not hesitate to pass down equipment from the older children as they outgrow it, as long as it is maintained and in proper working condition. Young first-time skiers should not use poles. Murray said they are not necessary for beginning techniques, and the fewer items for a first-time skier to worry about, the better.
