Hey there! Skiing with toddlers can be an awesome adventure! With some careful planning and the right gear, you can ensure that your little one is safe, comfortable and having fun. When it comes to gearing up for skiing, there are a few things to keep in mind when picking the right ski size for kids, like your toddler’s height, weight, and skill level. But don’t worry, with a bit of preparation, you and your toddler will be zooming down the slopes in no time!
In this guide, discover key tips on choosing the right ski length, tailored to your child’s height and weight, ensuring a safe and enjoyable skiing experience.
Table of Contents
How to Find the Right Size Skis For Kids
Choosing the right size skis for kids is crucial for their enjoyment, safety, and learning on the mountain. The process involves considering both the child’s height and weight. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to select the appropriate ski length for kids, along with a basic ski size chart as a reference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Kids' Skis
Let’s Measure Your Child’s Height and Weight! Accurate measurements are important to ensure your child has the right size skis. Height is the primary determinant, and weight can also play a role.
Check Out the Kids’ Ski Size Chart! This chart is a great starting point based on your child’s height. Keep in mind that the perfect ski length usually falls between your child’s chest and nose.
Let’s Adjust for Your Child’s Skill Level! If your child is a beginner, shorter skis (closer to chest height) are easier to control and maneuver. For intermediate to advanced level skiers, longer skis (closer to nose height) offer more stability and speed. Let’s get ready to hit the slopes!
| Child's Age (years) | Child's Height (in) | Child's Weight (lbs) | Ski Length (cm) |
| 3 | 37 | 34 | 70-80 |
| 4 | 40 | 37 | 80-90 |
| 5 | 43 | 42 | 90-100 |
| 6 | 45 | 46 | 95-105 |
| 7 | 47 | 50 | 100-110 |
| 8 | 50 | 57 | 110-120 |
| 9 | 53 | 63 | 115-125 |
| 10 | 55 | 70 | 120-130 |
| 11 | 57 | 79 | 130-140 |
| 12 | 59 | 89 | 135-145 |
Reasons to Size Kids' Skis Shorter (Closer to the Chest)
Beginner or Cautious Skier: Shorter skis are easier to control and maneuver, which is crucial for beginners or children who are more cautious on the slopes. They make learning basic techniques like turning and stopping simpler.
Lighter Than Average Weight: Children who are lighter than average for their height may struggle with longer skis. Shorter skis will be more responsive and easier for them to handle due to their lighter weight.
Preference for Short, Quick Turns: If a child enjoys making short, quick turns and doesn’t ski fast, shorter skis are more suitable. They offer better agility and are easier to pivot, which is beneficial for this style of skiing.
Reasons to Size Kids' Skis Longer (Closer to the Nose)
Fast and Aggressive Skiing: Longer skis offer more stability at higher speeds and are better suited for children who ski fast and aggressively. They provide a smoother ride over varied terrain and better balance during rapid movements.
Heavier Than Average Weight: Kids who are heavier for their height may find that longer skis offer better support. The additional length can help distribute their weight more evenly, improving stability and control.
Room to Grow: Choosing skis on the longer side within the recommended range can be a practical decision to accommodate a child’s growth. However, it’s crucial not to exceed the recommended size range by too much, as overly long skis can be difficult to control and may hinder skill development.
Important Note on Oversizing Skis
While it’s tempting to buy much larger skis to accommodate growth, this can be counterproductive. Excessively long skis can make skiing more difficult and less enjoyable for children. They may struggle with control, which can affect their confidence and progression.
Renting vs. Buying Used
Renting from your local ski shop provides a hassle-free way to keep up with your child’s rapidly changing ski sizes, but don’t overlook the potential of used marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp. Here, you can often find budget-friendly, entry-level skis for kids, making it easy to acquire the correct size without breaking the bank. Given the swift pace at which kids grow, opting for second-hand skis could mean finding almost-new pairs every year or two, offering both value and convenience. And when you are done, you can always resell it and move to the next size up.
Additional Considerations
Personal Style Matters: Kids often feel more confident and excited about skiing when they’re using gear that aligns with their personal style. A ski design/color that they love can boost their enthusiasm for the sport. Investing in skis that your child is drawn to can save future frustration. They’re more likely to be eager to use them and less likely to lose interest.
Skill Development: Prioritize the child’s current skill level and style over anticipated growth when selecting ski length.
Safety: Shorter skis might be safer for beginners as they reduce the risk of injury due to loss of control.
Consult with Experts: Ski shop experts can provide valuable advice and may adjust recommendations based on the child’s skill level and skiing style.
Renting vs. Buying: For growing children, renting can be a cost-effective way to ensure they always have skis that fit well.
Flexibility and Material: Younger or lighter children may benefit from skis with more flexibility.
By following these guidelines and using the ski size chart as a starting point, you can help ensure your child has the right equipment for a fun and successful experience on the slopes. Remember, these are general guidelines, and personal preference or specific skiing conditions might lead to different choices.
