This calculator helps you determine the optimal ski or snowboard length based on your height. Properly sized equipment is key to comfort and safety on the slopes for both adults and children.
Calculator
How to Measure Your Height
What you need. A tape measure or measuring tape, a flat wall, and a helper.
How to measure. Stand straight against a wall with your heels touching it and the back of your head lightly touching the wall. Ask a helper to measure from the floor to the top of your head.
Tip. Measure in the afternoon — your height can be 1–2 cm taller in the morning due to your spine being relaxed after sleep.
How does sizing by height work?
Height is the starting point for selecting equipment, but it is not the only factor. For skis, the "chin-to-nose" rule applies: when standing vertically, the tip of the ski should reach somewhere between your chin and nose, depending on your skill level. For snowboards, the guideline is similar, but the rider's weight is also considered — it affects the board's flex and, consequently, its performance on the slope. The tables below show the recommended length range for each height.
Adult Ski Length Chart
| Height | Ski length (cm) | |
|---|---|---|
| cm | ft/in | |
| 140–150 | 4'7"–4'11" | 120–140 |
| 150–160 | 4'11"–5'3" | 140–155 |
| 160–165 | 5'3"–5'5" | 150–160 |
| 165–170 | 5'5"–5'7" | 155–165 |
| 170–175 | 5'7"–5'9" | 160–170 |
| 175–180 | 5'9"–5'11" | 165–175 |
| 180–185 | 5'11"–6'1" | 170–180 |
| 185–195 | 6'1"–6'5" | 175–185 |
| 195+ | 6'5"+ | 180–195 |
Children's Ski Length Chart
| Child's height | Ski length (cm) | |
|---|---|---|
| cm | ft/in | |
| 80–90 | 2'7"–2'11" | 67–80 |
| 90–100 | 2'11"–3'3" | 80–90 |
| 100–110 | 3'3"–3'7" | 90–100 |
| 110–120 | 3'7"–3'11" | 100–110 |
| 120–130 | 3'11"–4'3" | 110–120 |
| 130–140 | 4'3"–4'7" | 120–130 |
| 140–150 | 4'7"–4'11" | 120–140 |
| 150–165 | 4'11"–5'5" | 130–150 |
Adult Snowboard Length Chart
| Height | Board length (cm) | |
|---|---|---|
| cm | ft/in | |
| 140–150 | 4'7"–4'11" | 128–136 |
| 150–160 | 4'11"–5'3" | 136–144 |
| 160–165 | 5'3"–5'5" | 144–148 |
| 165–170 | 5'5"–5'7" | 148–152 |
| 170–175 | 5'7"–5'9" | 152–156 |
| 175–180 | 5'9"–5'11" | 156–160 |
| 180–185 | 5'11"–6'1" | 160–164 |
| 185–195 | 6'1"–6'5" | 164–170 |
| 195+ | 6'5"+ | 170–176 |
Children's Snowboard Length Chart
| Child's height | Board length (cm) | |
|---|---|---|
| cm | ft/in | |
| 90–100 | 2'11"–3'3" | 70–90 |
| 100–110 | 3'3"–3'7" | 90–100 |
| 110–120 | 3'7"–3'11" | 100–110 |
| 120–130 | 3'11"–4'3" | 110–120 |
| 130–140 | 4'3"–4'7" | 120–130 |
| 140–150 | 4'7"–4'11" | 130–140 |
| 150–160 | 4'11"–5'3" | 140–150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What determines the right ski length?
The main factor is the skier's height. Beginners benefit from shorter skis — they are easier to control. More experienced skiers can use longer skis, which provide better stability at high speeds and hold their line better on the slope. Weight and skiing style are also considered when making a final selection.
How is selecting skis different from selecting a snowboard?
For skis, the classic guideline is the "chin-to-nose" rule: when standing upright, the tip of the ski should reach somewhere between your chin and the tip of your nose. Snowboards are matched by height and weight: heavier riders should choose a board from the upper end of the range, while lighter riders should go for the lower end.
How do I choose the right ski length for a child?
Beginner children should use skis that reach their nose or even chin level — these are the easiest to control. More experienced young skiers can move up to skis reaching forehead height. Avoid buying skis that are too long to "grow into" — oversized skis are dangerous and slow down skill development.
Does weight matter when choosing a snowboard?
Yes, weight plays an important role. At the same height, a heavier rider should choose a board from the upper end of the recommended range, while a lighter rider should select from the lower end. This is related to board stiffness: a heavier rider needs more flex resistance to get proper response from the board.
What is the difference between carving and recreational skis?
Recreational skis are wider and shorter, making them ideal for beginners and casual slope skiing. Carving skis have a more pronounced sidecut and are designed for precision arc turns on groomed pistes. They are typically selected at a slightly shorter length than recreational skis of equivalent rider height.
What should I do if my height falls between two size ranges?
Consider your skill level: beginners are better off with the shorter option (easier to control), while experienced skiers should lean towards the longer option for better stability and speed. For snowboards, weight is also an important tiebreaker.
Choosing a helmet size for skiing or snowboarding? Use our helmet size calculator.