Kids Ski Size Guide

What size ski should my child use

What size skis should I buy for my child?

The quick answer: Most kids’ alpine skis should reach somewhere between the child’s chest and nose. Shorter skis are generally easier to turn; longer skis offer more stability and room for stronger technique. Height gives you a starting point, but weight, ability, terrain and ski construction determine the best final choice.

Little Rippers fit rule: Choose skis your child can control confidently this season. Do not buy significantly longer skis just to leave room for growth.

Kids Alpine Ski Length Chart

Measure your child without ski boots. Use the chart to find a starting range, then use the adjustment rules below.

Kids Ski Size by Height Table

This chart is a starting range, not a guarantee. Available ski sizes usually increase in 5–10 cm steps. Choose the nearest appropriate size and check the ski manufacturer’s recommendation for that exact model.

Choose Shorter or Longer Within the Range

When to choose a longer or shorter ski

The Fast Body Check

When skis come up to the following part of your body:

Chest to chin: Common for beginner skiers. Easier to pivot, stop and manage at slower speeds.

Chin to nose: Typical for progressing and intermediate young skiers.

Near the nose or slightly taller: Usually reserved for confident, technically strong kids, heavier children, race-specific recommendations or skis designed to be used longer.

Do Not Size by Age Alone

Children of the same age can vary widely in height, weight, strength and skiing experience. Measure the child and consider how they ski. If height points to one size and weight points to another, a lighter child will usually do better toward the shorter end; a heavier or stronger child may need the longer end.

Special Cases

Twin Tip and Rockered Skis A turned-up tail and substantial tip or tail rocker reduce the amount of edge contacting the snow. These skis may be chosen slightly longer than a traditional flat-tail piste ski, but the exact model recommendation matters.

Junior Race Skis Race skis should not be sized from a general recreational chart. Slalom and giant slalom skis use different lengths, and race programs may follow coach, manufacturer or competition rules. Ask the child’s coach before buying.

Very Small Beginners For a very young first-time skier, easy control matters more than speed or long-term growth. A short, soft junior ski near chest height is usually more manageable than a longer ski the child must grow into.

Buying Used Kids Skis

Correct length is only one part of a safe match. Before purchasing, confirm:

  • The exact ski length printed on the ski, in centimeters.
  • The child’s current height, weight, ability and typical terrain.
  • The ski is a junior model with an appropriate flex—not merely a short adult ski.
  • The binding can accommodate the child’s exact boot sole length, printed in millimeters on the boot shell.
  • The boot sole type is compatible with the binding. Alpine, GripWalk and touring systems are not automatically interchangeable.
  • The binding model is still serviceable by a qualified shop and has not been recalled.
  • Bases, edges, sidewalls, tips and tails have no structural damage, major delamination, pulled hardware or severe rust.
  • Binding setup is not a DIY sizing step. Have a qualified ski technician inspect, adjust and function-test used bindings for the child’s boots, height, weight, age and skier type before use.
  • A binding that slides to the correct boot length may still be incompatible or unsafe.

A Note About Ski Boots

Ski length and boot size are separate decisions. Kids’ ski boots are sized in Mondo Point, based on foot length in centimeters. Measure both feet and use the larger foot, then have the fit checked. Oversized boots reduce control and can encourage overtightening; do not buy several sizes large for growth.

Cross Country Skis Use Different Rules

Do not use the alpine chart for Nordic skis. Cross-country length depends heavily on the ski type, the child’s weight and the ski’s flex. As a broad manufacturer rule of thumb, junior classic skis may range from about the child’s height to 20 cm longer as skill increases, while junior skate skis are generally closer to the child’s height. Always use the weight range and sizing chart for the exact ski model.

To Sum It Up

The right ski should help a child turn, stop and explore with confidence. Start with height, adjust for weight and ability, follow the exact manufacturer’s guidance, and have used bindings checked by a qualified ski shop before the first day on snow.

Educational disclaimer: This guide provides general sizing information and does not replace manufacturer instructions, race-program requirements or professional ski-shop fitting and binding service. Equipment, standards and serviceability vary by model and year.