Ski Length Chart
The Ski Length Chart is a reference tool covering ski length chart, ski size chart, how to choose ski length, ski length by height chart. Use the chart below to look up values instantly. Printable and downloadable versions are available on this page.
Ski Length Chart by Height and Skill Level
Recommended Ski Length by Skier Height and Ability
| Skier Height (ft/in) | Skier Height (cm) | Beginner Ski Length (cm) | Intermediate Ski Length (cm) | Advanced Ski Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4'7" to 4'11" | 140 to 150 cm | 120 to 130 cm | 125 to 135 cm | 130 to 140 cm |
| 4'11" to 5'2" | 150 to 158 cm | 130 to 140 cm | 135 to 145 cm | 140 to 150 cm |
| 5'2" to 5'4" | 158 to 163 cm | 135 to 145 cm | 140 to 150 cm | 148 to 158 cm |
| 5'4" to 5'6" | 163 to 168 cm | 140 to 150 cm | 148 to 158 cm | 155 to 165 cm |
| 5'6" to 5'8" | 168 to 173 cm | 148 to 158 cm | 155 to 165 cm | 160 to 170 cm |
| 5'8" to 5'10" | 173 to 178 cm | 152 to 162 cm | 158 to 168 cm | 165 to 175 cm |
| 5'10" to 6'0" | 178 to 183 cm | 158 to 168 cm | 163 to 173 cm | 170 to 180 cm |
| 6'0" to 6'2" | 183 to 188 cm | 162 to 172 cm | 168 to 178 cm | 175 to 185 cm |
| 6'2" to 6'4" | 188 to 193 cm | 168 to 178 cm | 175 to 185 cm | 180 to 190 cm |
| Above 6'4" | Above 193 cm | 175 to 185 cm | 182 to 192 cm | 185 cm and above |
Source: Ski industry sizing standards and manufacturer guidelines — Rossignol, Atomic, and Salomon recommendations
Ski Type and Length Guide
Ski Type Sizing Recommendations
| Ski Type | Best Terrain | Recommended Length Relative to Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-Mountain | Groomed runs and some off-piste — the most versatile category | Chin to forehead | Most popular category. Best first ski for intermediate and above. |
| Carving | Groomed runs only — tight high-speed turns | Nose to chin | Short sidecut radius for aggressive carving. |
| Powder | Deep ungroomed off-piste snow | Above forehead or taller | Wider — floats in soft snow. Goes longer than other types. |
| Freestyle / Park | Terrain park — jumps, rails, and halfpipe | Waist to chin | Twin-tip design (both ends curved). Go shorter for tricks. |
| Racing | Groomed gates — slalom, GS, super-G | At or above head height | Very narrow waist for edge grip. Requires expert technique. |
| Touring | Backcountry skinning and ski touring | Nose height | Weight is priority — go lighter even if slightly shorter. |
Children's Ski Length Chart
Children's Ski Length Chart by Age and Height
| Child Age | Child Height (cm) | Recommended Ski Length (cm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 to 4 years | 90 to 105 cm | 70 to 90 cm | Very short beginner skis — focus on balance and snow feel. |
| 4 to 5 years | 100 to 115 cm | 80 to 100 cm | Can begin snowplow and basic directional control. |
| 5 to 7 years | 110 to 125 cm | 90 to 110 cm | Standard children's rental range. |
| 7 to 9 years | 120 to 135 cm | 110 to 120 cm | Begin parallel turns. |
| 9 to 11 years | 130 to 145 cm | 115 to 130 cm | Progress to intermediate groomed runs. |
| 11 to 13 years | 140 to 158 cm | 125 to 145 cm | Approaching adult sizing. |
| 13 years and above | 155 cm and above | Use adult chart above | Adult sizing appropriate. |
Ski Size Calculator
Enter your height, weight, skill level, and ski type to get a recommended ski length range and setup notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should my skis be?
Ski length depends on your height, weight, and skill level. Beginners should choose skis reaching chin to nose height while advanced skiers can go forehead height or taller for greater speed and stability.
What ski length for a beginner at 5'10"?
A beginner at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) should look for skis in the 152 to 162 cm range. Shorter skis are easier to turn and control — critical while developing technique.
Should I get shorter or longer skis?
Beginners and lighter skiers benefit from shorter skis which are easier to initiate turns with and more forgiving. Advanced and heavier skiers benefit from longer skis which provide more stability at speed and float better in powder.
What does ski waist width mean?
Waist width is the narrowest point of the ski underfoot measured in millimetres. Narrower waist (under 85 mm) provides better edge-to-edge performance on hardpack while wider waist (above 95 mm) provides better flotation in powder.
How do I measure ski length?
Ski length is measured from the tip to the tail in centimetres — this is always printed on the ski. Rental shop staff use this measurement and a skier's height and ability to select appropriate skis.
What is the difference between all-mountain and carving skis?
All-mountain skis are wider with a more moderate sidecut radius — they handle varied terrain including groomed runs and soft snow. Carving skis are narrower with an aggressive sidecut designed specifically for making tight precise turns on groomed hardpack at speed.
Are longer skis faster?
Longer skis are generally more stable at high speed because the longer edge-contact creates more grip. However they are harder to turn — speed-focused racers use very long stiff skis while park and trick skiers use shorter more manoeuvrable ones.
What ski length for a 5-year-old?
A 5-year-old of average height (approximately 110 to 115 cm) should ski on 90 to 110 cm skis. Children's skis are designed to be short enough for easy turning and low-speed control.