The huge assortment of alpine ski models in sports salons can baffle even an experienced skier, let alone novice athletes. It depends on the equipment whether skiing will be comfortable or will forever discourage you from taking up the sport. Therefore, it is important to know how to choose the right skis and what to look for when purchasing. Consultants at a sporting goods store will, of course, help you decide, but before you go shopping, it is advisable to get at least a general idea of the design features and basic characteristics of ski equipment. This knowledge will help you choose the right model so that the sensations when descending from the mountain are bright and memorable.
Constructions
There are several layers in the design of alpine skis:
- core – the main element responsible for performance properties;
- metal edges - set the direction of movement;
- materials with reinforcing properties;
- sliding surface - responsible for the speed of sliding on snow;
- vibration damping systems - various elements built into the structure to absorb vibrations during descent;
- outer covering – colored plastic with a picture;
- additional elements – platform protectors, heel protectors, toe protectors.
Depending on the method of attaching the layers to each other and installing additional structural elements, alpine skis are divided into 3 types:
- cap (top cover) – the top layer is made of high-strength material and is load-bearing; the remaining layers are attached to it;
- sandwich – the design involves multi-layer filling with materials of different functionality, the rigidity of the model is ensured by the top and bottom layers;
- monocoque (torsion box) - the core is enclosed in a box made of synthetic materials (carbon, Kevlar) in combination with metals.
To understand how to choose the right ski model according to design, you need to decide on the method of skiing:
- on a prepared track (carving);
- on a snowy slope (freeride);
- freestyle (stunt skating).
The cap is a classic, inexpensive design that ensures durability of equipment during active recreation on the prepared slopes of ski resorts. Alpine skis with a sandwich design are more versatile, suitable for skiing on slopes with different snow densities. They have better shock absorption and are suitable for beginners and advanced skiers.
Equipment for freeride and freestyle must be rigid and resistant to aggressive deformation. The choice should be made in favor of the box design. They will cost more, but are more durable and can smooth out uneven terrain.
Options
Equipment parameters are indicated in catalogs, and some on the skis themselves. Speed, maneuverability, and riding comfort are affected by:
- waist width;
- length (size);
- geometry;
- cut radius;
- rigidity;
- deflection
These are the main characteristics taken into account when choosing equipment. What do they show?
Waist Width
A key parameter that determines the cross-country ability and all-terrain qualities of alpine skis. For descending on broken snow or virgin soil, you need to choose a pair with a wide waist, for carving - with a narrow one.
Geometry
Each model has its own geometry. It is determined by the width of the toe, waist and heel (for example, 125/73/105). The greater the difference between the width of the toe and the waist, the easier it is to make turns. Alpine skis with a narrow tip are suitable for skiing on flat slopes. With a narrow backdrop it is easier to change the direction of movement and make sharp turns.
Cut radius
The radius of the sidecut affects the ability to perform carving maneuvers. With a lower indicator (11–13 m) it is easier to enter a turn. It is more difficult to make turns on equipment with a cutout radius of 17 m or more.
Weight
The average weight of a pair of alpine skis is 3–4 kg. There are lighter models, but there are heavier ones (up to 7 kg). This characteristic is usually of interest to women or lovers of hiking ski tours.
Light alpine skis are easier to control, but easier to lose your way. As skill increases, tougher and heavier equipment is required.
Rigidity
This parameter is also compared with the riding style and level of training. Soft equipment is well suited for beginners, for descending on loose snow and virgin soil. They are preferable for women and children. Hard options promote good acceleration and skating on densely packed snow or icy surfaces, ideal for experienced athletes. The higher the skier's weight, the higher the stiffness parameter should be. With a weight of 80 kg, the optimal stiffness is 8.
Deflection
The deflection ensures reliable grip on hard slopes and stable control. Camber is a classic upward bend. Necessary for uniform distribution of weight along the length of the equipment when cornering. Indispensable for descents on prepared or icy slopes.
Rocker - reverse deflection. This technology appeared relatively recently, but has proven itself when skiing in deep snow. Modern models have both types of camber, which makes them suitable for descent on all types of slopes.
Classes
The classification of ski equipment is based on the level of professionalism of the skier. There are 4 classes:
- class A – for sports professionals;
- class B – for experts, experienced skiers;
- class C – for advanced level of training;
- class D – for beginners.
The higher the class, the better and more expensive the kit. It is impossible to find Class A equipment in regular sports stores; the assortment is more aimed at ski enthusiasts and advanced skiers - Classes B and C.
Sports skis (racing)
The requirements for sports equipment are increased: high rigidity (8–9) and stability are required. This category of alpine skiing is divided into 3 types:
- for slalom - with a side cut of 10–15 m, 10 cm shorter than height;
- for giant slalom – length at the height of the skier, cutout radius – 17–21 m;
- for freestyle - with a size equal to the height of the athlete, a wide waist (90–110 mm), and curved heels.
Sports models are available only in classes A or B.
Amateur skiing
For active recreation, beginners and advanced skiers need to choose equipment of classes C–D of medium hardness. Sports enthusiasts should take a closer look at models for experts and professionals.
The choice of alpine skis for beginner athletes is best done based on their skiing style.
Riding style
Depending on the style you intend to ride, you should choose a pair with the following parameters:
- carving – descents along prepared trails of simple or medium difficulty (waist width 63–73 mm, cutout radius – 10–15 m);
- Fun Carving - radical skating on dense snow with entering a turn in an almost horizontal body position (strong curvature of the toe-middle-back axis, a significant difference between the width of the waist and the width of the toe);
- autocarve (Solomon) – deeper side cuts (15–17 m) make it easier to take turns;
- freeride – off-piste descents in the mountains (waist width 80–100 cm, cutout radius – 17–30 m, length – 5 cm above height);
- universal (All-Mountain, Allround) – skiing on all types of mountain slopes (waist width – 68–80 mm, wide toe and heel).
If you plan to ride from prepared slopes and on loose snow, the ideal choice is universal models. At the amateur level they will provide optimal riding quality.
Rostovka
The length of the skis is selected according to the height and weight of the skier. The recommended size for beginners should be 15–20 cm below height (at average weight). With increasing experience, you can gradually increase it to a height equal to height or 5–10 cm higher.
The more a person weighs, the fewer centimeters should be taken away. For a man with above average weight, a pair with a length equal to his height is ideal.
A table of alpine skis by height will help you make your choice.
Skier's height, cm | Weight, kg | Alpine ski length, cm | |
women | men | ||
140–149 | Less than 47 | 130–145 | 135–150 |
150–159 | 47–55 | 135–155 | 145–165 |
160–169 | 55–62 | 150–170 | 155–175 |
170–179 | 63–70 | 160–180 | 165–185 |
180–189 | 71–79 | 170–190 | 175–195 |
>190 | 80 or more | 175–200 | 185–200 |
How to choose alpine skis for a child?
The choice of ski equipment for children should be approached with special care, otherwise skiing for a child can turn into torture and cause dislike for active recreation in the future.
The main parameters for selection are height and weight:
- for preschoolers weighing less than 20 kg, the size is 70 cm;
- if the child weighs 20–30 kg, the optimal length is 90 cm;
- with a weight of up to 40 kg - about a meter;
- children of middle school age heavier than 40 kg can take adult models, but strictly taking into account their height (15–20 cm less);
- For young but experienced skiers, a pair whose length is equal to the height of the child is suitable.
You should choose children's skis. They are soft and intended for those who are taking their first steps in sports. A shortened adult set will not work.
How to choose used alpine skis?
Not everyone can afford to buy new ski equipment: the cost of the simplest model (class D) is within 10 thousand rubles, while the price of improved options reaches 50 thousand rubles.
If you can't afford to buy a new pair, you can buy a used one. Sometimes it is in excellent condition, and the price is 40-50% lower than in the store.
When purchasing, you should pay attention to the following points:
- It is better not to buy worn-out equipment from actively skiing skiers - its service life is minimal.
- There should be no noticeable damage to the integrity of the surface: cracks, traces of gluing.
- It is important that the profile edges are square and the gap between them and the ski is uniform.
- The deflections of both skis should be the same.
The right choice of equipment for skiing is the key to an excellent holiday and a guarantee of an unforgettable experience during the descent. If you take your purchase lightly, your money will be wasted and skiing will not be fun. If you have the slightest doubt, you can try several equipment options at rental points and only then choose the model that suits you.
Skiing is one of the most popular winter sports activities. But for those who have just decided to try skiing, a logical question arises - how to choose skis and poles? You need to select them according to your height.
Skiing is one of the most popular sports activities in winter. But for those who have just decided to try skiing, a logical question arises - how to choose skis and poles? You need to select them according to your height.
To begin with, let's still decide what exactly you want to do - cross-country running or learn to go down the mountains? Sports are far from the same, they differ greatly from each other, and the parameters for choosing sports equipment in them are also, accordingly, different.
In skiing, there are several methods of skiing, each of which has separate types of racing skis. First of all, these are the classic icon methods. Also, in sports stores you can find recreational skis for ordinary outdoor enthusiasts. Now, let's figure out how to select them according to your height.
If you are serious about this sport, then classic and skating skis are at your service. The main rule for choosing them is approximately this: if the main method of skiing is classic, then the skis should be 20-30 centimeters higher than your height. For the ridge method, this figure is approximately two times less. As for recreational skis, their size should be 15-20 centimeters larger than your height. However, so that you don’t get too confused in the measurements, we provide a table with all the necessary values.
Table for selecting ski lengths
What about the sticks? For them, too, there is a separate classification according to which they should be selected. Poles for the classic move should be 25-30 centimeters shorter than your height. For skating skis, poles are chosen that are 15-20 centimeters smaller than the athlete.
Table for selecting the length of poles
(cm) Length of poles for
classic stroke (cm) Length of poles for
ridge travel (cm)
If you are planning to put your child on skis, then it is worth remembering that the method of selecting skis in this case is somewhat different from the standard one. The determining role in the choice of sports equipment for children weighing up to 40 kilograms is not height, as in adults, but weight. If your child weighs from 10 to 20 kilograms, then skis 70-80 centimeters tall are suitable for him. For guys in the weight category from 20 to 30 kilograms, skis with a length of 90 centimeters are optimal. For children weighing from 30 to 40 kilograms, you should buy meter skis. As for the sticks, everything is the same as for adults - they should be 25-30 centimeters less than the child’s height.
Speaking of mountain skis, we note that their selection depends not only on your height and weight, but also on the conditions in which you are going to use them. For non-professionals, manufacturers divide skis into three categories: carving, which are divided into fan carving (allowing you to turn almost lying down) and autocarving (have a lightweight steering system), freeride and universal. Carving ones are intended for those who ride on prepared slopes. For those who like to travel over rough mountainous terrain, we advise you to take freeride skis. However, skiing on them is almost inaccessible for beginners due to their complexity. So-called universal skis are suitable for them, which can be ridden almost anywhere.
Table for selecting alpine skis according to your needs
Recently, wide opportunities for children to engage in skiing have appeared in our country. Naturally, a child also needs to carefully select equipment according to his height and weight. Note that children's skis range in size from 70 to 120 centimeters. As a rule, unlike adults, they have a simplified design, without control amplifiers and other things. Below we provide an approximate table of selection of alpine skis for children.
Table for selecting alpine skis for a child
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Skiing is the most common winter sport in our country. But good skiing depends not only on the skier’s physical fitness, but also on well-chosen equipment. Today we will talk about how the physical parameters of an athlete - height and weight - affect the nuances of choosing skis.
How to choose skis according to your height?
There are certain aspects to choosing ski lengths. They differ depending on the type of product, which can be classic, skating or walking.
- Skis of the first category, classic, the length should exceed the height of the skier by 20-30 cm.
- Skate models should be 10-15 cm larger than the athlete’s height.
- Deserves special attention recreational(aka combined) skis that are very popular among fans of this winter sport. They are selected 15-20 cm longer than the height of their owner.
Beginner athletes who do not know how to choose a ski size should remember that short skis are much easier to control. But people with extensive riding experience can afford to buy long models. Moreover, such skis provide maximum glide.
How to choose a ski size?
To understand how to choose a ski size, you should pay attention to the special size table. Read it, or better yet, print it out and take it with you to the sports store. She will tell you how to determine
size for skis and buy equipment that will be easy to use. Only with this approach to choosing will the purchased skis give you a lot of positive emotions while skiing on winter snowy paths.Human height (cm) | Ski length for classic skiing (cm) | Walking ski length (cm) | Skating ski length (cm) |
150 | 175 | 170 | 165 |
155 | 180 | 175 | 170 |
160 | 185 | 180 | 175 |
165 | 190 | 185 | 180 |
170 | 195 | 190 | 185 |
175 | 200 | 195 | 190 |
180 | 205 | 200 | 190-195 |
185 | 205-210 | 200-205 | 195 |
190 | 205-210 | 200-205 | 195 |
195 | 210 | 205 | 195 |
How to choose skis by weight?
There is nothing complicated here either. All that is required is to weigh yourself and check the result with the ski size table:
! Please note that many manufacturers have their own tables of ski sizes by height and/or weight, which differ from those given in this article.
It is also important to remember that the weight of the athlete has a direct impact on the level of rigidity of the products. The larger it is, the stiffer the skis should be. To select skis by weight, you should measure their stiffness level using
flex tester. Skis are placed on a special board or on a flat surface and the stiffness is measured using a device. This indicator can also be determined by squeezing a pair of skis with your hands. More information on how to conduct a “manual” test yourself is described in our.How to choose skis and poles according to height?
The above describes in detail how to choose the right skis for your height. But when choosing equipment, it is important to pay attention to poles. Unlike skis, the length of the poles should be 15-20 cm less than the height of the athlete. If the skier is in excellent physical shape, the length of the poles can be slightly increased. But, in any case, the minimum length of the poles should not be below the shoulders, and the maximum length should not be below the ear. Besides:
- you cannot buy poles “for growth” (especially if you are purchasing equipment for a child);
- You should not buy poles with miniature supports - the so-called “legs”.
Now you know how to choose skis based on your height and weight. Arm yourself with a size chart - and go to the sports store!
You might be interested
Nowadays, more and more people are becoming interested in skiing, and this sport is gaining its popularity. Good skiing depends not only on the professional qualities of the skier, but also on properly selected equipment, where the main place is occupied by skis and ski poles.
1. Depending on the skiing style, there are different requirements for the length of skis and poles. When choosing skis for skating, do the following: place the skis next to you - they should be 15 cm longer than your height. For example, if your height is 175 cm, then the optimal ski length will be 190 cm.
2. Sticks are selected in a similar way. But only they should be 15-20 cm smaller in comparison with your height. You can choose taller poles, but only if you have fairly good physical training of your hands. Just remember that the poles should not be higher than your ears (maximum length) and not lower than your shoulders (minimum length of ski poles).
3. If you are choosing skis for classic skiing, then their length should be 25-30 cm greater than your height. The amount that you get is the optimal length of this type of ski for you. The poles here should be 25-30 cm shorter than your height. And skis for walking should not be more than 15-25 cm larger than the skier’s height.
4. When choosing skis, you should look not only at height, but also at weight and level of fitness. So athletes who are well prepared physically will withstand more weight of sports equipment. If you are a beginner, then subtract 10 cm from your height, and if you already ski often and consider yourself an experienced skier, then subtract 20 cm.
5. To select the size of skis and poles depending on the type of skiing (classical or skating) and height, depending on weight or fitness, you can use some tables.
6. Also, to calculate the length of skis and poles for children, you can use a special table, because the choice of length here takes into account not only the height, but also the age of the child. For children, do not buy equipment “for growth” under any circumstances. Firstly, the child will not be able to ride normally in it, and secondly, this can lead to injuries.
7. When choosing equipment, pay attention to such characteristics as rigidity and heaviness. It should be both light and as rigid as possible.
8. Buy skis and poles only in specialized sports stores. Such a store will be like a guarantee, which means that you are buying quality items.
Now you know how to choose skis and poles according to your height! Good luck with your choice!
Skis are a universal type of sports equipment, suitable for both extreme sports enthusiasts who prefer steep slopes and lovers of quiet walks in the park. Sports equipment stores offer a huge range of models for different purposes. This article will tell you how to choose skis based on height and weight, not get confused when choosing your cherished pair and take into account all the criteria - from riding style to the physical parameters of the skier.
The following areas are distinguished in this sport:
- Speed skating on the track (professional sport).
- Skiing on prepared slopes (carving).
- Skiing on the slopes and all of them (universal).
- Skiing on virgin soil and off-piste (freeride).
For each type of skiing, there is certain sports equipment, the rules for choosing which must be studied before going to the store.
First, you need to decide on the type of activity. Will it be cross-country running or mountain riding? Each type of skiing has its own sports equipment. These are mainly classic, walking or skating methods.
Secondly, it is necessary to understand the methodology for correctly selecting equipment according to such body parameters.
How to choose skis according to your height?
When choosing a pair of skis, you must remember: the shorter the product, the easier it is to control. Therefore, it is better for beginners to take a closer look at shorter models that can provide maneuverability and easy control. Experienced skiers who love speed can afford a longer pair, especially since these are the models that provide the greatest glide.
Those who intend to engage in skiing seriously need to pay attention to models and. When purchasing, you should rely on the following rule: they must be 20-30 centimeters longer than a person’s height; for the ridge method - by 10-15 centimeters; for walking - by 15-20 centimeters. Walking or combined options are the most popular.
How to choose a size?
Size is the length of the product. For clarity, when choosing a pair for yourself, it is convenient to use a special table to determine the size and ski equipment. It is advisable to print out this table for determining length by height and take it with you to a sports equipment store. If the skier’s weight exceeds the norm for his height, it is necessary to add an additional 2 or 3 centimeters to the length.
Important! A universal rule when buying a pair of skis is to subtract 10 centimeters from your height.
This way you can choose a product in a sports store that is suitable for almost all types of riding and will provide maneuverability, comfort and safety.
Adult length selection table
Skating move | Height | Classic move |
155 | 150 | 160 |
160 | 155 | 165 |
172 | 160 | 178 |
177 | 165 | 178 |
178 | 170 | 187 |
187 | 175 | 187 |
190 | 180 | 195 |
195 | 185 | 202 |
195 | 190 | 205 |
200 | 195 | 205 |
202 | 200 | 210 |
205 | 205 | 210 |
210 | 210 | 220 |
210 | 215 | 220 |
To determine the optimal length of “snowshoes,” women need to subtract 10-18 centimeters from their height. With average training and optimal conditions, a woman 170 centimeters tall will fit a size of 158-160 centimeters.
Available statistics provide the corresponding figures. Most pairs bought by men are 167-177 centimeters long, while for women this figure is 152-158 centimeters.
It is necessary to take into account the fact that for children there are separate conditions for selecting a ski pair. Don't rush to buy it for. If it is quite small, it means it is growing quickly, and it is better to rent equipment for skating. There is also no point in buying equipment just for one trip to the mountains. If such trips are regular or the child plans to engage in skiing, the purchase should be taken very seriously. When purchasing, you should rely on the child’s physical fitness, height and weight, as well as the type of skiing (or). The main difference between products and adults is their lightness and size.
Inexperienced little skiers should buy models 5-10 centimeters less than the height indicator, approximately up to the child’s chin. As you gain experience, skis can lengthen by 5-10 centimeters.
How to choose skis by weight?
To purchase ski equipment by weight, it is enough to know your weight and use the table below for selecting skis by weight:
Selecting length depending on weight
Note! An important factor when selecting skis is their stiffness.
There is a direct relationship between the stiffness of skis and the weight of their owner: the heavier it is, the higher the stiffness index of the product should be. To measure stiffness, you can squeeze the product in your hands or use a flex tester. A flex tester is a device with which, when placing skis on a flat surface or a special board, you can determine their stiffness.
As for determining this indicator in children, it is necessary to focus only on the child’s weight if he weighs less than 40 kilograms:
Weight, kg | 10-20 | 20-30 | 30-40 |
Size, cm | 70-80 | 90 | 100 |
For skating, they are selected taking into account the child’s height and, as a rule, are 25-30 centimeters smaller than him.
How to choose the right poles for your skis and height?
Above are given by height and weight. But when buying ski equipment it is also very important to buy it correctly. Approximate - shoulder level. The better a skier is, the longer the poles he can afford. It is also worth remembering the following rules:
- poles must strictly correspond to height; you cannot purchase equipment “for growth”;
- The support on the poles must be appropriate in size and length.
What else do you need to know when choosing a ski pair?
When purchasing, it is not always possible to limit yourself to such characteristics as a person’s height and weight. A successful purchase will also depend on the subsequent riding conditions. For non-professional use there are:
- Carving skis (convenient for maneuvering and making sharp turns on prepared slopes).
- Freeride skis (designed for experienced cross-country skiing).
- Universal (the most popular due to their widespread use on any slope, regardless of the skier’s training and physical characteristics).
Another important parameter that should be taken into account when choosing skis is the presence of notches. The notches are applied to prevent strong sliding, in particular, sliding back. Models with notches do not require lubrication, but at the same time they do not allow high speeds and are inconvenient to use on icy surfaces. Notches are convenient when you have no riding experience.
If there are no notches, the skis must be lubricated with a special product - lubricant. This lubrication allows you to increase sliding speed and reduce recoil. It must be applied along the entire length, periodically removing and renewing the application.
Which ski hardness is better to choose?
Rigidity can be easily determined by the gap between the block and the floor surface. If the gap is 0.5 millimeters (the thickness of a sheet of paper), it is a medium-hard ski. Such skating. When skating, skis with increased rigidity are preferable. When checked, the gap between the floor and the skis is about 2 millimeters.
Skis of medium hardness are more universal, that is, they are models for recreation. In any case, it is better to determine the hardness using flex testers in specialized stores.
How to choose skis for professional skiing?
This information will be of interest not only to professionals, but also to those who, like athletes, want to try themselves on the slalom course. Skis for professional use are regulated by strict rules:
- ski size (for men - 163-167 centimeters; for women - 154-158 centimeters);
- size for giant slalom: 182-190 centimeters for men; 175-182 centimeters for women. In this case, you should focus on the skier’s preparedness, his physical parameters and skiing conditions.
Studying the available range of ski equipment, we can conclude that the majority of manufacturers produce a model range of 4 pairs of skis of different lengths. For the highest accuracy, before purchasing skis, you need to calculate the size based on your weight and height. For the highest accuracy, before purchasing skis, you need to calculate the size based on your weight and height. It is preferable to purchase your first pair of skis with the help of a specialist or an experienced skier.