However, this can be adjusted based on their ability and attitude. Having fun is the most important thing!
If your child is very young, hesitant or not quite into it yet, we recommend shorter skis. You can go down to chest. This will help them gain confidence early and they will continue to ski and have a great time.
If your child is aggressive and really enjoys it already, then go with the nose or head height.
Weight can also help you to size kids' skis. Use the chart to help you determine the right length.
If your child is over 90 lbs and wearing over size 5 adult shoe, adult skis may be a better fit. Kids' skis have kids bindings and adult boots over size 6 may not fit the adjustment range.
Kids' Ski Sizes
Skier Height (in.)
Suggested Ski Length (cm)
Suggested Ski Length (in.)
Skier Weight (lbs.)
36"
70
27.5
< 40
39.5"
80
31.5
< 40
43"
90
35.5
40-50
47"
100
39.25
50-60
51"
110
43.25
60-70
55"
120
47.25
70-80
59"
130
51
80-90
63"
140
55
>90
67"
150
59
>90
Size your skis shorter, closer to your chin if:
You are a beginner or intermediate skier
Your weight is lighter than average for your height
You like to make short, quick turns
You like to ski on a very stiff ski
Size your skis longer, closer to the top of your head if:
You are skiing fast and aggressively
You weigh more than average for your height
You plan to do the majority of your skiing off the trail
You like to ski on a softer ski
Ski Sizes (by height)
Height (ft.-in.)
Height (cm)
Suggested Ski Length
4'4"
132
115-130
4'6"
137
125-140
4'8"
142
130-145
4'10"
147
135-150
5'
152
135-155
5'2"
158
145-165
5'4"
163
150-170
5'6"
168
155-175
5'8"
173
160-180
5'10"
178
165-185
6'
183
170-190
6'2"
188
175-195
6'4"
193
180-200
To find your size, stand straight up and drop your arm to your side. Then bring your arm up 90 degrees like you are holding a ski pole. Have a friend measure from your elbow to the floor (wearing your regular shoes). Take this number, add 4 inches and you then should have your ski pole size. Standard sizes are 43-45-47-49-51-53 inches. If you are in-between two numbers go short to be aggressive, or long for a more relaxed stance.
Kids don't really need poles until around 10 years old - but this can vary based on size and coordination.
All our boots are listed with the US street shoe size in the title. For example, a kids' 3 boot would fit a kids' US 3 shoe size.
The first time children try on ski boots most will complain that they are too small. Let's face it - Ski boots are not the most comfortable boot, but boy is it fun when they hit the slopes! We have found that the following technique helps most parents fit kid's boots.
First, pull out the boot liner from the plastic shell. Yes, you will be able to get the liner back in. We promise! Next, have your child try on the liner. This way you will be able to see how close your child's foot fits into the boot like any sneaker. We have found that parents will go up an entire shoe size to get more life out of a boot. Children's boots do not have to fit as snuggly as adult boots unless your child is an advanced skier.
Most beginner skiers, who are not familiar with how ski boots should fit, think that ski boots should fit like street shoes. This is not the case. When trying on your boots take a few minutes to try the following technique to ensure that your boots fit.
To properly fit a ski boot make sure that you have on one pair of ski socks. The ski socks should be wool or a wicking material. Please do not use cotton socks. After you have inserted your foot, start buckling up the boot from the toe up to the top. If your boot has a power strap (not all boots are manufactured with power straps), please velcro it in place.
Bend your knees and power flex forward over the top of your boots three or four times. The power flexing action pulls your heel back into the heel pocket of your boot. Next, stand up straight without a bend in the knees. In this position, your toes may just touch the end of the boot. Your toes should not be rammed or bent. Now bend your knees and lean slightly forward, this is your ski position. Your toes should now pull away a little from the front of the boot and not be touching the front at all.