What length skis do I need?

Choosing the correct ski length is one of the most important decisions when buying skis. Skis that are too long or too short can make skiing harder than necessary and reduce your control, stability and overall enjoyment on the mountain.

The ski length you need mainly depends on how you plan to ski. Your skier type plays an important role, whether you focus on piste skiing, all-mountain, freeride, touring, freestyle or a combination of styles.

In this guide, we explain how to choose the right ski length, with clear examples, ski length charts and practical tips for beginners through advanced skiers.

Factors that determine ski length

To find the right ski length, several factors need to be considered. These include your height, weight, skiing ability, preferred terrain and the type of skis.

Ski length chart

To determine your ideal ski length you start with your own body length, skiing ability and your type of skis. With this information and the ski length chart below you can determine which ski length matches your length and ability.

Important: the ski length chart gives general guidelines. To find your ski length you also need to take into account your weight, preferred terrain and not to forget, your personal preference. Read on for more tips and tricks in finding the perfect ski length.

Ski length by ski type

Want to learn more about the different types of skis? Read our article 8 different types of skis explained.

On piste skis

Piste skis are for anyone who wants to enjoy gliding on piste. From absolute beginners to expert skiers. For beginner skiers we advise piste skis 10 to 15 centimeters shorter than your own body length.

If you have some experience choose a ski 5 to 10 centimeters shorter than your height. If you like easy turns without much effort, it’s useful to take a not-too-long ski. However a shorter ski offers less stability at higher speeds. So if you like to charge down and can ski any piste, choose the length that suits a more advanced skier.

Race skis

Race skis are made for sporty skiers who enjoy fast carving on groomed pistes. They are generally less suitable for beginners, as they require good technique and control.

Race skis are usually chosen at body height or up to 15 cm shorter. GS skis are typically body length and suited for longer turns, while SL skis are 10–15 cm shorter and designed for short, quick turns.

These skis are inspired by competition models used in disciplines such as slalom (SL), giant slalom (GS) and Super G (SG), where ski length is strictly regulated.

All-mountain skis

Within the all-mountain category, we distinguish between piste all-mountain and freeride all-mountain skis. The main difference lies in the width underfoot.

Freeride all-mountain skis are wider, which provides better floatation off-piste. They also feature more rocker in the ski profile, making them easier to turn. This allows you to choose a slightly longer ski without drawbacks, while the added length further improves floatation in deeper snow.

Freeride & Powder skis

In deep snow, longer skis perform better. Freeride and powder skis offer a rocker-profile, which makes them easy to turn in all conditions. This allows you to comfortably choose a longer size. If you're unsure between two lengths, we advise choosing the longer ski, as you will quickly get used to the extra length.

Freestyle skis

In practice, freestyle skis are often used in a very all-round way and frequently as piste skis. In that case, choose the ski length as you would for a piste ski. If you enjoy riding large kickers, a slightly longer ski offers more stability, while a slightly shorter ski is better suited for rail-focused skiing.

Touring skis

When choosing the right length for touring skis, the same guidelines as for freeride skis generally apply. However, if uphill efficiency is your main focus, slightly shorter skis can be beneficial, as they make uphill kick turns (Spitzkehre) easier.

That said, most modern touring skis feature rocker in the ski profile, allowing you to size up slightly more than was common in the past.

Practical tips for choosing ski length

• If you are between two ski lengths, choose shorter for easier control or longer for extra stability.
• Skis with rocker feel shorter on snow, allowing you to size up slightly.
• Aggressive or fast skiers usually benefit from longer skis.

Use the overview below to decide whether a shorter or longer ski length suits your skiing style best.

FAQ: How long should skis be?

How long should beginner skis be?

Beginner skiers usually ski on well-groomed pistes and therefore choose piste skis. As a beginner, skis that are easy to turn and forgiving are important, which is why a shorter ski length is recommended.

As a beginner, choose piste skis that are approximately 10–15 cm shorter than your body height.

Should I choose a longer or shorter ski if I am between sizes?

If you are between two ski lengths, choosing a shorter ski offers easier control and maneuverability, especially at lower speeds. A longer ski provides more stability at higher speeds, but can feel heavier and more demanding to ski, particularly when skiing slowly.

How does weight affect ski length?

Heavier skiers often need slightly longer skis for stability, while lighter skiers usually benefit from shorter skis.

What length skis do I need for touring?

Touring ski length generally follows freeride guidelines, though slightly shorter skis may be preferred for uphill efficiency and easier Spitzkehre.

Snowcountry tip

Are you buying a ski with a lot of rocker? Feel free to choose a ski that is as long as you or longer. Skis with rocker feel shorter on snow, ensure easy turning in all conditions and the length provides stability, floatation and fun.

Still wondering what length skis you need?

Our ski experts are happy to help you choose the perfect ski length based on your height, weight, skiing style, ability and ski type.