What length should my skis be?

Question

i have decided to buy skis rather than just rent for this years trip until now i have just taken what ever skis have been handed to me by the shop, i like the look of the prices on ebay etc but obviously they come without advice. I am six foot six and wondered what sort of length of ski i should be looking for. i am an intermediate skiier just starting to carve turns but am staying on piste for the moment.

anyone bought from ebay before with sucess or trauma?

thanks

Answer 1

They should come up to your chin to your collarbone, like in snowboarding. But doesn't weight play a factor as well?

Answer 2

I would suggest that a ski in about 180-190 cm range of a higher performance ski, would allow you to learn what you need to learn.  The skiis that you get from the area rental shop are just for an average size beginner. When you rent, ask for a high performance or demo ski.  When you get ready to purchase a pair of your own, try demo the models first. The most important purchase is your boots, they must fit TIGHT around the foot and ankle.  They should also be stiff enough to support your body in a good ski position.  Different brands of boots have different shapes and your foot must be in a matching shape.  

  Go to a professional ski boot shop and spend 3-4 hours trying the boots for fit and size.  The boot should be one size smaller than your shoe size.  A size 11 shoe is  in a size 10  (28.0  (2+8=10) ) this allows for a tight but controllable fit.  Also be checked for leg alignment, boot cants, cuff alignment, and ramping.  All of these things do change how your boot applies force to the skiis.  

   As to your skiis from e-bay, a race ski will be strong enough to support you, but is probably too sensitive to your movements, a good club racer, or all mountain ski is more likely your best selection.

   You might also try a shop that is selling their demo skiis from last season.