Enter your height, weight, ability level, and where you ski. You'll get a specific cm range — not a chart that tells you "consult your local shop."
Your measurements
Height
Weight
Ability Level
Primary Terrain
Fill in your height and weight
to see your recommended length.
How the calculation works
We start with your height as the baseline, then apply an offset based on your ability level. Beginners go 15–20 cm shorter than height; experts can match or exceed their height in ski length. This matches the ski-to-skier sizing guides used by most manufacturers.
Terrain modifies that baseline: powder skis get 8 cm added (you need length to float), park skis lose 8 cm (you need to pivot quickly), groomed skis drop 5 cm (control matters more than speed), backcountry skis add 5 cm (you're skiing variable snow but want manageable weight).
Weight is adjusted relative to a height-proportional average. If you're significantly heavier or lighter than typical for your height, the recommendation shifts ±3–5 cm accordingly.
All results are rounded to the nearest 5 cm — because ski lengths are sold in 5 cm increments. There's no point giving you "174.3 cm."
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose ski length?
The right ski length depends on your height, weight, ability level, and the terrain you ski. Beginners should size down (chin to nose height), advanced skiers can go longer (nose to forehead). Powder and backcountry skiers benefit from extra length; park skiers should go shorter.
Should I go shorter or longer for my first skis?
Shorter — always. A shorter ski is easier to turn and recover from mistakes. The common beginner error is going too long. Size down 15–20 cm from your height when starting out.
Does weight affect ski length?
Yes. A heavier skier needs a longer or stiffer ski to get proper flex and float. Our calculator accounts for weight relative to height and adjusts the recommendation accordingly.
Are ski lengths the same for all brands?
Mostly — skis are measured tip to tail in centimeters. However, twin-tips (park skis) are measured to the tip, not the tail, so they ski slightly shorter than their stated length. When buying park skis, go 2–5 cm longer than you'd think.
Can I use the same ski length for groomed runs and powder?
Technically yes, but it's not ideal. Groomed skiing favors shorter, more maneuverable skis. Powder benefits from longer skis that plane up and float. If you ski both, your all-mountain length is a good compromise — or own two pairs.