Finding the ideal ski length is an important step in finding your perfect ski. The sizing chart below is a great place to get started, helping you pinpoint the suggested length of our skis based on your height and skill level. If this handy chart doesn't answer your questions, continue scrolling below to find the important topics to consider in your quest for the perfect ski.
*Important note: the quickest path to a 100% guaranteed best length is to strike up a quick conversation with someone from our team. Hit the LiveChat button in the bottom corner of this screen, email info@4frnt.com, or call 1-801-975-9500.
1. Choosing Ski Length by Ability Level
Selecting the right ski length is closely linked to your ability level:
a. Beginner: Novice skiers should opt for shorter skis. They are easy to control and maneuver. This helps build confidence and lay fundamentals for getting better. Check out the MSP 91, Switch, or Devastator JR
b. Intermediate: Intermediate skiers can experiment with various ski lengths depending on their rate of progression and terrain choice. If you are an Intermediate, see the next topic "Sizing Up vs. Sizing Down" to find your sweet spot. Check out the MSP Collection, Switch, or Nevar
c. Expert: Advanced skiers have more options but should definitely lean towards longer skis for stability and higher speeds. You'd be amazed at the difference 5cm can provide for float in soft snow. Check out any ski in the MSP, Freeride, or Hoji Collection - based on terrain choice and ski style.
2. Sizing Up vs. Sizing Down
Often skiers are going back and forth between a <10cm difference, for example: choosing between the 184cm Hoji vs. the 191cm Hoji. Here's our guide:
a. Go with a LONGER length if you:
- Feel your current skis sometimes feel too small or underwhelming at higher speed.
- Spend more than 40% of your time in powder and want better float.
- Your terrain is often wide open for longer turn opporunities.
- Want to ski faster and push that threshold.
- Are a heavier person.
b. Go with a SHORTER length if you:
- Feel your current skis are too long and overpower you.
- Want easier maneuverability in trees and bumps.
- Spend less than 40% of your time in powder.
- Are a lighter person.
3. Choosing Ski Length by Terrain Type
Your choice of skis should align with the type of terrain you plan to focus your time on. Consider your skill level here, and your choice of ski waist width as well.
a. Groomers / On-Piste: If you're primarily skiing on groomers, we recommend you look for a narrower waist width and cambered skis for precision and control. See the MSP COLLECTION. We recommend you avoid sizing up too much for groomer skiing (unless you're just going for raw speed), because you don't need the extra length for float in powder.
b. Moguls and Trees: Shorter skis with a slightly narrower waist and a shorter turning radius are excellent for navigating moguls and tight tree runs. Try going slightly shorter if you want to master the snake runs through tight zones. Check out the MSP Collection and the Freeride Collection (the SWITCH is epic in the trees).
c. Powder and Off-Piste: Go to the Hoji Collection, buy the greatest powder skis of all time, and when in doubt size up! More ski is more float. Reverse Camber profile also slightly "shortens" the feeling of the ski on snow.
d. Touring Skis: All about terrain choice but find your perfect match in the Hoji Collection. Shorter touring skis save on weight, are easier for kick turns, and help you when navigating tight couloirs and narrow exits. If you tour to hunt powder, reference the point above.
4. Full Rocker Skis vs. Cambered Skis
Understanding if you're looking at a full rocker ski vs. a cambered ski is essential for selecting the right length.
a. Full-Rocker: This references the full Hoji Collection, and the Devastator and Inthayne from the Freeride Collection. We recommend you size up slightly with these skis. The full-rocker shape greatly increased maneuverability, float in powder, and turn initiation. If you're on the fence, consider sizing up between the 179cm to the 184cm Hoji if you're chasing float in powder.
b. Cambered: Camber refers to teh upward curve in the middle of the ski underfoot. Camber provides better edge grip and stability on groomers. The MSP Collection and the SWITCH from the Freeride Collection are your skis with cambered.
5. Ski Waist Widths
We might as well mention waist widths while were here. Its equally important to consider when choosing the perfect ski:
a. Narrow Waist (<100mm): This includes the MSP 91, MSP CC, MSP 99, and the SWITCH. These skis are built and shaped for conquering the resort. Groomed, carving, bumps and tree laps. They provide quick edge-to-edge transitions and responsiveness.
b. Mid-Waist (100-112mm): This includes the Raven, MSP 107, Devastator, and Hoji. These skis offer versatility and can handle various conditions, making them a good choice for all-mountain skiing and a mix of on and off piste.
c. BIG BOYS (<112mm): This includes the InThayne and the Renegade. Thayne Rich and Eric Hjorleifson's promodel skis. For off-piste, powder, deep snow, built for better floatation and control.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ski size and ski length is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your days spent on snow. Remember we're ALWAYS here to help you make the final decision. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any doubts on where you landed after considering these options. Remember that 4FRNT offers a Money-Back Guarantee, allowing you to ski the skis for up to 5 days on snow before you make a final commitment. Armed with this knowledge and our guarantee, you can't miss.
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