Alpine Ski Sizing

Determining the right ski length is not as simple as plugging in your height and weight. Although these are great factors to provide a starting point, there are other factors such as snow conditions, preferred terrain, ski category, and personal preference that should also be taken into account. The general rule is for your skis to measure somewhere between your chin and the top of your head. With expert level skiers often choosing skis slightly above their head.

Height

(ft & in)

Height

(cm)

Suggested 

Ski Lengths

(cm)

Once you have determined your recommended ski size range, now you need to decide if you prefer a longer ski or a shorter ski. In general shorter skis will be easier to maneuver while longer skis will be more stable. Narrower carving skis with smaller turn radiuses and full camber can be skied shorter, while wider all mountain and freeski skis with more rocker can be skied longer. Rockered skis have a shorter contact length with the snow which makes it easier to pivot and steer, however we recommend sizing up skis with a lot of rocker in order to maintain stability. Below are several reasons to help you make this decision.

GO SHORTER, CLOSER TO YOUR CHIN IF:  • You are a beginner-intermediate level skier  • You prefer making shorter/quicker turns  • You are looking for a carving ski  • You weigh less than average for your height GO LONGER, CLOSER TO THE TOP OF YOUR HEAD IF:  • You are an advanced-expert level skier  • You like skiing fast and making longer turns  • You mostly ski off trial • You are looking at a ski with a lot of rocker  • You weigh more than average for your height