Choosing the right skis is akin to discovering your skiing soulmate—a pair that complements your style, skill, and the thrill of the slopes. This journey is about more than just length; it's a personalized quest for the perfect fit for you.
Dive into the details as we break down the artistry behind ski sizing. From navigating groomed trails with precision to conquering the powdery backcountry, your skis become an extension of your style and aspirations.
Join us on an adventure exploring everything from ski length and width to design. It's not just about equipment, it's about crafting an experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a fresh face in the skiing world, our guide is your backstage pass to understanding the symphony of elements that make up your perfect skiing ensemble.
Let's demystify the journey together, empowering you to make not just a purchase but a confident choice for a ski season filled with excitement and tailored perfection.
UNDERSTANDING WEIGHT WHEN SIZING SKIS
While your height is the usual or basic measurement for selecting skis, weight is also a significant factor. Each ski will have a weight range where it’s designed to perform at its best.
If you fall below the weight range, the skis will feel a bit stiffer, and if you’re above the weight range, they will be a bit softer than the manufacturer intended. But this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t select a ski outside of that range. If you’re looking for a certain amount of flex, keep this in mind while shopping.
If you’re lighter than average for your height, you’ll likely have a ski that’s closer to your chin. If you weigh more than average for your height, you’ll probably have a ski that’s closer to the top of your head.
WHAT TYPES OF SKIS TO USE
What you plan to do on your skis will also factor into what size skis you select. If you plan to spend most of your time in the park or pipe, or want a ski that turns much more quickly, a shorter ski will be preferred. A shorter ski will also have a lower swing weight if you plan on going off jumps and spinning.
If you plan to spend most of your time carving down the hill or riding in powder, or you want to ski faster and more aggressively, a longer ski will be preferred. A longer ski will have more edge to hold higher speed turns, and longer skis will offer more float in powder.
SKIS DEPENDING ON EXPERIENCE LEVEL
Shorter skis will typically appeal to newer skiers as they’re easier to turn. More experienced skiers may go with skis that are shorter or longer than the norm based on what they want from that ski, whether it’s quick turns or longer turns that are more stable at higher speeds.
Determining your experience level and the way you will ski will also factor into choosing a waist width range that you should be looking for.
The waist width is measured at the middle of the ski, the narrowest part of the ski. A narrower waist width will be easier and quicker to turn and easier to maneuver overall, while a wider waist will offer more flotation in deep snow and provide extra stability. A wider waist is much harder to learn on, so if you're a beginner it is not recommended to start with a wide-waisted ski.
The above chart is a generic chart that works for most standard skis. Please make sure to refer to the manufacturer size chart for specific sizing on the skis you are interested in.
Have more questions about finding your ski size? Connect with us through the chat icon, call us at 877-885-2453, or head into your local ERIK'S to get more information.