What size skis should an intermediate skier use?

Ski Size Chart

What skis to choose for intermediate?

As a general rule, look for a ski length that’s somewhere between your chin and the top of your head when you stand next to the upright skis. You’ll likely want shorter skis if you’re new or returning to skiing, if you want to make quick turns, and if you’re not into high speeds.

Are all mountain skis good for intermediate skiers?

When you hit the intermediate level it’s time to get some skis with decent performance. You need some versatility to them. This sounds a lot like a pair of all mountain skis will be the best type of ski for you as an intermediate skier.

How do I choose the right skis?

There is no magic formula for determining the right size ski for you. In general, the proper ski length is somewhere between your chin and the top of your head. For example, a skier that is 6′ tall will want to look for skis between 170cm and 190cm.

Should older skiers use shorter skis?

The older you are the shorter your skis should be. If you are more interested in balance and speed control than you are in speed you want to consider a shorter ski. If you prefer to ski slower, select a shorter ski with a smaller turning radius.

What size skis does my child need?

For sizing kids’ skis, a good rule of thumb is youth skis should come somewhere between the child’s chest and nose. If your child is a newbie skier, lightweight for their height, and prefers turning over being speedy, then you’ll likely want to size skis around chest or chin level.

What is an intermediate skier?

Intermediate lessons are for skiers who can confidently ski green and easy blue runs and are comfortable on less-than-ideal trail conditions. Level Five skiers are intermediates who are confident on easy blue runs and ski mostly parallel but may at times use the wedge to begin a turn or to stop.

What skis does Cody Townsend use?

The QST 118 has been Townsend’s favorite ski over the past few years; he’s taken it on many heli- and sled-ski trips where big-mountain powder skiing was the objective. For The Fifty, he used it less, as he ticked off lines with massive approaches and variable snow that didn’t require a powder ski.

What are intermediate skis?

Intermediate lessons are for skiers who can confidently ski green and easy blue runs and are comfortable on less-than-ideal trail conditions. Level Four skiers are cautious intermediate skiers who can link turns under moderate speed on green or easy blue trails.

What is the difference between beginner and intermediate skis?

TLDR; Beginner skis are more flexible and turn easier at slower speeds. Intermediate and expert skis are stiffer and more stable at higher speeds and better for sharper more aggressive turns. A skier learning the foundations will be frustrating learning on a ‘better’ ski.

What happens if skis too short?

Having skis that are too short to support your weight will have a lack of control, lack of response or rebound, and will not absorb the vibration when at a higher speed.

Are longer skis harder to turn?

At speed, longer skis are easier to control and the turns are less sharp and so less likely to throw you off balance. At lower speeds, shorter skis are generally easier to control.

What kind of skis do I need as a beginner?

Simply put, as a beginner skier, you want skis that offer comfortable control. You need skis that are helping you, not fighting against every turn you take. The right skis will help you gain the confidence you need to tackle harder green runs and eventually blues. Once you have progressed into an intermediate skier you want skis to be predictable.

What is an advanced intermediate skier?

An advanced intermediate skier is a more seasoned skier that has good basic technique and is either starting to explore off trail terrain, freestyle terrain, or wants to develop strong carving and technical skills.

What should you look for when buying or renting skis?

Whether you are new to the sport of skiing, a seasoned veteran, or somewhere in between, there are a few characteristics you should look for when purchasing or renting skis. Beginner skiers want to find a ski that is going to be forgiving, light and has a soft flex. Intermediates want skis that are predictable and stable.

What makes a good intermediary ski?

Good instructors teach intermediates to control turn shape (and therefore speed) with a subtle “pedal” pressure on the ball of the foot. A ski with the right flex pattern for your weight and strength will reward this forward input by applying a power-steering pressure at turny front end, or shovel.