Ski question?

Question

does anyone know a link to a place where i can find out what size skis i need

Answer 1

Each ski company produces a spec sheet that is sometimes on line and almost always at the ski shop. I had one for each ski company's skis I used to sell so I could size the customer correctly in the ski that was best for their needs.

The old rule of thumb was to base it on height, but that is a pretty poor way to judge which ski will be the best for you. What is inside a K2 ski is not what is in an Atomic ski, etc. etc. Some have more flex, some have more sidecut, etc. etc. and your WEIGHT will greatly affect how each of these skis perform.

While the graphics are what people are attracted to, that should never be the deciding factor in buying a ski. I'm currently riding skis that were not my first choice as appearance goes, but they are good ski for my size, how I ski, and where I mostly ski. I also demo a lot of skis and I love the graphics on some of them, but they ski like c**p (for me at least.) So TRY TRY TRY before you BUY!

Buying online or used may save you some cash, but in the long run, if you don't know what you need you can get hosed. If you can't find the right ski sizes for your WEIGHT online, you best check with the dealers for the correct info.

Answer 2

Just go to a ski shop and they will tell you.

Answer 3

Go to each brand website, the sizes listed will give you an idea of what you need. Read  Willie's answer carefully.  Skiis are now sized according to ability, rather than height and weight for a primary size. A rule of thumb for a beginner is about nose height, +/-  5 cm. From that rough size, adjust to the upper end for a higher weight and strength, down for less skill and less aggressive skiing.  Once you find a good length, try several different brands and models at a demo day at a nearby area. A heavier skier still needs a ski that is a little stiffer than a light weight skier of the same skill, this is to prevent decamber when skiing. Unless you are a top racer, stay away from all race models, they are too sensitive for lower skilled skiers to handle correctly.  An all mountain model is a good choice for most skiing.

  A ski will perform differently according to the way it is tuned.  

I borrowed a students ski and loaned him my pair for part of a run, his were so poorly tuned that I could barely make them turn on a moderate slope. He loved how mine skied, freshly tuned for medium performance, not racing. The edge and base bevel will ease turn initiation, a good hot wax will allow the ski to slide and turn easily.

  Hope this helps.

Answer 4

indeed

Answer 5

just up to your nose is a good default length.  short enough to manage if you are just learning.  long enough so you wont need a new pair in a year or two.

Answer 6

Ski.com

the shorter the better. u turn better

longer is for speed