How Does the Length of Skis Affect On-Piste Performance?

Experienced Skiers Will be the First to Notice the Importance of Ski Length and Shape. It is Easy for Beginners to Make the Wrong Choice, which Can Lead to Incidents or a Poor Experience on the Slopes.

How can I ensure that I choose the right skis? Today, our experts shed light on this question.

Where should You Start when Choosing the Correct Ski Length?

The golden rule is that it mainly depends on your height and weight, but other factors such as the individual’s level and preferred style also come into play.

What Ski Size is Best for Beginners?

As we have mentioned, height and weight are the main factors, but you will also need to provide information about your skiing level.

Generally, shorter skis are better for beginners because:

  • They slide more slowly
  • They allow you to turn more quickly
  • They have no camber

Why is a Longer Ski Better for Advanced Skiers?

If you are truly experienced and enjoy the adrenaline rush, you should opt for longer skis because:

  • They slide faster
  • They support more weight
  • They are suitable for off-piste skiing
  • They have greater camber

How Do You Choose the Shape of Skis?

The shape of the skis is a factor to take into account when choosing the most suitable ones, so let’s familiarize ourselves with the most commonly used terms:

  • Reverse camber: the profile of the ski when, when resting on a flat surface, one or both ends do not contact the ground, which allows it to practically float on the snow more easily.
  • Sidecut: width of the ski’s tip, waist, and tail that form the arc seen from above.
  • Tip and tail: there are many other factors to take into account when it comes to choosing the shape of the skis, which will determine how you ski, so choosing the perfect combination of length and shape is vitally important.

If You are Still Unsure, Ask our Experts.

At the Sierra Nevada ski resort, we offer prêt-à-porter equipment rental, so don’t worry about choosing the right size and shape of your skis: our experts will help you choose the perfect equipment according to your preferences and level so that you can enjoy the slopes to the fullest.preferences and level so that you can enjoy the slopes to the fullest.