How to Choose the Right Length Skis for Men
The right size skis for men depends on several factors, including height, weight, ability and skiing style. A general rule of thumb is to choose a ski length that places the tip somewhere between your chin and the top of your head.
If you like skiing fast & aggressively, or you weigh more than average for your height, or if you plan to do a lot of off-piste skiing, then consider a longer ski, closer to the top of your head.
Shorter skis are easier to turn. Longer skis are more stable.
Advanced and pro skiers often choose skis that are slightly taller than their height.
Men's Ski Size Chart
User Height (in) | User Height (cm) | Expert Length (cm) | Intermediate Length (cm) | Beginner Length (cm) |
4'6" | 137 | 137 | 130 | 122 |
4'8" | 142 | 142 | 135 | 130 |
4'10" | 147 | 147 | 140 | 132 |
5'0" | 152 | 152 | 145 | 137 |
5'2" | 158 | 158 | 151 | 143 |
5'4" | 163 | 163 | 156 | 148 |
5'6" | 168 | 168 | 161 | 153 |
5'8" | 173 | 173 | 166 | 158 |
5'10" | 178 | 178 | 171 | 163 |
6'0" | 183 | 183 | 174 | 168 |
6'2" | 188 | 188 | 181 | 173 |
6'4" | 193 | 193 | 186 | 178 |
The significance of downhill ski size lies in its impact on your skiing performance, maneuverability, stability, and overall skiing experience.
Here's why ski size is important:
Stability and Control: longer skis provide more stability at high speeds and in varied terrain, making them suitable for experienced skiers. Conversely, shorter skis offer greater maneuverability and are easier to control, making them ideal for beginners and those who prioritize agility over stability.
Turn Radius: ski size influences the turn radius, or the arc your skis make when turning. Longer skis typically have a larger turn radius, resulting in wider turns that are better suited for carving and high-speed cruising. Shorter skis have a smaller turn radius, allowing for quicker, tighter turns, which can be advantageous in moguls or tight terrain.
Floatation in Powder: in deep snow or powder conditions, longer skis provide better floatation, allowing you to stay on top of the snow rather than sinking in. This is particularly important for freeride and backcountry skiers who encounter powder regularly.
Edge Grip and Carving Ability: the length of your ski affects the amount of edge grip and carving ability. Longer skis typically have more edge contact with the snow, providing better grip and stability when carving turns on groomed slopes. Shorter skis may feel more nimble and responsive but sacrifice some edge grip on hard-packed snow.
Terrain and Skiing Style: freestyle or park skiers often prefer shorter skis for easier spins and tricks, while all-mountain skiers may opt for medium-sized skis that offer versatility across various terrain types.
Height and Weight: and skiing ability play a crucial role in determining the appropriate ski size for you. Heavier skiers may require longer skis to provide adequate support and stability, while lighter skiers may feel more comfortable on shorter skis.
Personal Preference: some skiers may prefer the stability and speed of longer skis, while others prioritize maneuverability and agility with shorter skis.
Test & Experiment: test different ski sizes and experiment with various lengths to find the one that best suits your skiing style, ability, and preferences. Renting or borrowing different skis allows you to experience firsthand how size impacts your performance on the mountain.
Choosing the appropriate size skis will mean better performance on the slopes!
