Ski Sizing Guide
Choosing the right ski size is one of the most important steps in ensuring a smooth, safe, and enjoyable ride down the mountain. The perfect ski length varies from one person to another, depending on several key factors like your height, weight, skiing ability, preferred terrain, and the type of skis you plan to use.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know so you can pick the best ski length for your needs and skill level.
Ski Length by Height and Ability
A good rule of thumb is to select skis that fall somewhere between your chin and the top of your head when standing upright. However, this is only a starting point — fine-tuning comes by factoring in your experience level and skiing style.
| Skier Height | Weight Range | Beginner (cm) | Intermediate (cm) | Advanced (cm) |
| 4’8” (147 cm) | up to 110 lbs (≤ 50 kg) | 130–140 cm | 138–143 cm | 143–153 cm |
| 5'0" (152 cm) | 100–130 lbs (45–59 kg) | 138–148 cm | 148–158 cm | 153–163 cm |
| 5'4" (163 cm) | 120–150 lbs (54–68 kg) | 148–158 cm | 158–168 cm | 163–173 cm |
| 5'8" (173 cm) | 140–170 lbs (64–77 kg) | 158–168 cm | 168–174 cm | 174–183 cm |
| 6'0" (183 cm) | 160–190 lbs (73–86 kg) | 168–178 cm | 178–188 cm | 184–193 cm |
| 6'4" (193 cm) | 190–210 lbs (86–95 kg) | 174–184 cm | 184–188 cm | 184–195 cm |
Tip: These lengths are general suggestions. Your weight, ability, and ski type can all shift the ideal size up or down.
Adjusting Ski Length Based on Skiing Ability
Your skill level affects how much control you’ll have with a given ski length:
Beginner:
- Go for skis closer to chin height or even shorter.
- Shorter skis are easier to maneuver, especially at low speeds.
- Ideal for learning basic turns and controlling speed.
Intermediate:
- Opt for skis that fall between chin and nose height.
- Offers more versatility for learning to carve and handle moderate terrain.
Advanced to Expert:
- Choose skis closer to or above head height.
- Longer skis provide better stability at higher speeds and improved performance in deep snow and variable terrain.
Going Shorter vs Going Longer
Once you know your recommended size range, there are a few good reasons to size up or down. Shorter skis tend to be easier to maneuver and turn, while longer skis offer greater stability, especially at higher speeds. Check out the chart below:
| Factor | Go Shorter | Go Longer |
| Ability | Beginner | Advanced |
| Terrain | Park, Groomers | Powder, Freeride |
| Style | Slower, Controlled | Fast, Aggressive |
| Weight | Lighter than average | Heavier than average |
| Ski Profile | More camber | More rocker |
Need More Help?
Visit one of our dealers or talk to a ski tech for personalized advice.
Check our more information on Volkl's How to Choose a Ski guide.