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What size pair of skis should you choose?
Finding the right ski size
Now you've found THE pair of skis that will accompany you on all your adventures! All that's left is to choose the right size… Here are the different criteria that come into play when choosing the right size for your pair of skis.
The right size for every skier!
Two factors to take into consideration
If you think the skier's height is an essential factor in making your choice, weight is just as important. These two factors should be taken into account when choosing the right size for your skis.
Tip:
Women's skis are designed for lighter skiers than men's. That's the only difference between the two models. Size recommendations are the same.
Your type of practice and ski level
To choose the right size for your skis, you need to take into account your level of ability and your level of skiing.
Tip:
The shorter the skis, the easier they are to handle.
The longer they are, the more stable they are.
Example of practice:
Freestylers choose skis that are easy to handle and therefore short.
On the other hand, an experienced freerider will be looking for stability in powder snow, and will therefore opt for larger skis.
Example of level:
Beginners should choose skis that are shorter than they are, taking off between 5 and 10 centimetres from the pair.
On the other hand, a more experienced skier should add between 5 and 10 centimetres.
Table of proportions for choosing your ski size
The reference measurement is the skier's height, and cm are then added or subtracted depending on the skier's level and level of practice. Taking all this information into account, here's a table to help you navigate your options, along with some personalised advice:
* The shorter the skis, the more manoeuvrable they will be before and during tricks / the longer they are, the more stable they will be when landing jumps.
** Short skis are less stable at high speeds and offer less lift in fresh snow (powder) or spring snow conditions. As a reminder, a larger size requires a more advanced level of skiing. Skis are less manoeuvrable (wider curve radius). Conversely, a larger size will give you more stability and grip at high speeds, and more lift in fresh snow.
Ski characteristics
Flexibility
Bear in mind that the harder a ski is, the more responsive it is, so you need strength and technique to master it. These skis are designed for experienced skiers. With these skis, it's possible to go for it on the slopes and take turn after turn.
For beginners, it's best to choose a more “relaxed”, more flexible ski.
Rockers
The rocker of a ski refers to the upward curvature of the ski at the ends: most often at the tip (front) and sometimes at the tail (rear).
Unlike a classic camber, where the middle of the ski is in very wide contact with the ground and the ends are slightly raised, a rocker allows the ski to have longer raised zones. The contact area with the snow is therefore reduced. The different types of rocker make it possible to obtain skis adapted to every type of skiing.
Curve radius
The radius of a ski is a distance measured in meters. It's the theoretical distance a ski can cover during a turn. The shorter the radius, the faster and more controllably the ski will turn. The longer the radius, the straighter the ski will go and the harder it will be to turn quickly.
Our selection of skis
Ski sizes for kids
A financial investment
Just like adult skis, children's skis need to be adapted to the skier's size and ability... the only difference is, of course, that children are constantly growing and progressing rapidly! Buying a pair of children's skis is therefore a financial investment. The pair has to be changed every season to keep up with the little skier's growth.
We generally suggest a range between -5cm and -15cm, depending on the child's height and level.
As with adult skis, the taller the child's skis, the higher the skier's level, and vice versa with shorter skis for beginners. To give you an idea, the shortest skis will reach the child's chest, while the largest will reach the nose.
Tip:
You can switch to adult skis at around 1.50 m and around 45 kg.
Our selection of skis
Now you know exactly how to choose the right ski size
As you can see, your weight and height, as well as the type of skiing you do and your skill level, are fundamental factors in determining the size of your new skis. Nevertheless, at Snowleader, we recommend that you choose your ski size on a case-by-case basis. The technical characteristics of your skis can also have an impact on the recommended size. If in doubt, don't hesitate to contact us so that our team can help you choose the best size for your skis!
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