Ski Size Calculator: What Length Skis Do I Need?
Work out the right ski length from your height, weight, ability and the terrain you ski. Free calculator with a ski size chart in cm and feet.
Ski size chart
Suggested lengths for all-mountain skiing at an average build.
| Height | Beginner | Intermediate | Advanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 cm (4'11") | 130-140 cm | 135-145 cm | 145-155 cm |
| 155 cm (5'1") | 135-145 cm | 140-150 cm | 150-160 cm |
| 160 cm (5'3") | 140-150 cm | 145-155 cm | 155-165 cm |
| 165 cm (5'5") | 145-155 cm | 150-160 cm | 160-170 cm |
| 170 cm (5'7") | 150-160 cm | 155-165 cm | 165-175 cm |
| 175 cm (5'9") | 155-165 cm | 160-170 cm | 170-180 cm |
| 180 cm (5'11") | 160-170 cm | 165-175 cm | 175-185 cm |
| 185 cm (6'1") | 165-175 cm | 170-180 cm | 180-190 cm |
| 190 cm (6'3") | 170-180 cm | 175-185 cm | 185-195 cm |
| 195 cm (6'5") | 175-185 cm | 180-190 cm | 190-200 cm |
Frequently asked questions
How long should my skis be?
As a rule of thumb, beginners ski on skis that reach somewhere between the chin and the nose, intermediates around the nose to the eyebrows, and advanced skiers around head height or a little above. Heavier skiers, powder skiers and fast skiers go longer; lighter skiers, carving and park skiers go shorter.
Is it better to have shorter or longer skis?
Shorter skis turn more easily and are more forgiving, which suits beginners and tight turns. Longer skis are more stable at speed and float better in deep snow. If you are between two sizes, beginners should take the shorter one.
Does weight matter more than height?
Weight matters too: a heavier skier bends a ski more, so a slightly longer or stiffer ski helps; a lighter skier will find a shorter ski easier to control. That is why this calculator adjusts for build, not just height.
What size skis for a child?
Children's skis usually sit between the chest and the chin. Beginners and younger children should be at the shorter end so they can turn easily. Hire shops can resize as they grow during the week.
Is this a substitute for a ski shop fitting?
No. It gives you a sensible starting range, and a hire or retail shop will fine-tune the length to the specific ski model, since rocker and sidecut change how long a ski skis. Binding (DIN) settings must always be set by a technician.