How to Decide the Size of Downhill Skis to Buy

Skiing is an internationally enjoyed form of recreation.

For the aspiring skier, selecting a pair of skis can be a daunting task. The most important component of downhill skiing, it is important that skis are the proper length and style for each individual skier. Each skier must take into account personal height, weight and skiing ability during the selection process. As with most sizing situations, it is best to exercise honesty, rather than over- or under-exaggeration.

Things You'll Need

• Scale
• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Measure the distance from the ground to your nose in centimeters. Add three centimeters to compensate for ski boots. While weight is a more significant measurement when choosing downhill skis, your height also has a part to play.

2. Weigh yourself.
   If you weigh less than 100 pounds, your skis should be approximately 140 centimeters long. If you weigh between 101 and 115 pounds, your skis should be approximately 145 centimeters. If you weigh between 116 and 130, your skis should be approximately 150 centimeters. If you weigh between 131 and 150, your skis should be approximately 155 centimeters. If you weigh between 151 and 175, your skis should be approximately 160 centimeters. If you weigh between 176 and 200, your skis should be approximately 165 centimeters. Finally, if you weigh more than 200 pounds, your skis should be approximately 170 centimeters long.

3. Add the floor to nose measurement to the recommended ski length according to your weight. Divide this number by two to find your ideal ski length.

4. Factor in your skiing ability. The longer the skis are, the faster you will move down the mountain. Therefore, if you are a beginner, subtract 20 centimeters from your ideal ski length. If you are intermediate, subtract 5 centimeters. If you are advanced, leave the number the same. If you are an expert, add 5 centimeters.

5. Factor in the terrain on which you will ski. If you plan on skiing on well-groomed, on-piste runs, leave the measurement the same. If you plan on skiing on powdery, off-piste runs, add a final 5 centimeters.

Tips & Warnings

• Note that most major ski manufacturers have their own sizing guidelines.

References

• eBay: Skis and Skiing Equipment Buying Guide
• Sierra Trading Post: Alpine Skiing Guide
• REI: How to Choose Downhill Skis
• Skis: Alpine Ski Sizing

Resources

• Downhill Skiing for Aspiring Experts