For any skier there is no "one perfect length" ski. We recommend starting based on your weight and skier ability, then modifying the length based on how aggressive the skier is and the terrain the skier prefers to ski in. Height does play a role in some situations but has the smallest impact on choosing the correct length for most skiers. Please use the following charts to determine the best length for your needs.
Adult Ski Chart
Weight (lbs) | Beginner | Intermediate | Advanced/Expert |
100-109 | 139 | 143 | 147 |
110-119 | 144 | 146 | 150 |
120-129 | 146 | 150 | 154 |
130-139 | 150 | 154 | 159 |
140-149 | 154 | 159 | 163 |
150-159 | 160 | 164 | 169 |
160-169 | 165 | 169 | 173 |
170-179 | 170 | 174 | 178 |
180-209 | 172 | 176 | 180 |
210-219 | 175 | 178 | 180 |
220+ | 178 | 180 | 182 |
*If height is greater than 6'2" and weight is less than 170lbs start with 170lbs category. If height is less than 5'2" and weight is greater than 150lbs start with the 140lbs category.
Once a base length is determined we make two final modifications.
Skiing Style
Cautious | minus 3 cm |
Average | no change |
Aggressive | plus 3 cm |
*Skiing style is not determined by skill range. Many athletic beginners may choose aggressive if they are prefer to ski fast but are still learning technique. Advanced skiers may choose cautious if they prefer to ski at lower speeds and are primarily concerned about control.
Skiing Terrain
Groomed/Frontside | no change |
All Mountain | plus 3 cm |
All Mountain/Powder | plus 6 cm |
Freestyle | plus 3 cm |
Once a final length is determined any ski within 3cm longer or shorter is the ideal range for a skier. If a final length is 174cm, then skis 171-177cm are in the ideal range. If two lengths of a ski fall into an ideal range the shorter length will typically offer more control where the longer length will offer more stability at speed.