Wondering what size of touring skis to choose?
Martin, our ski touring expert, will guide you to choose the right length for your touring skis with confidence.
Summary
- Adjust ski length according to your weight and skiing style, not your skill level
- For ski mountaineering, choose skis that are 10 to 20 cm shorter than your height
- For all-round touring, go for a model that is 5 to 15 cm shorter
- In freetouring, select skis matching your height or slightly longer depending on the waist width
- Gender has little impact on the choice — prioritise body build and intended use above all
What are the selection criteria?
1st criterion: skier’s weight
The first factor to consider is your build. As with any ski purchase, the skier’s weight will influence the ski length you should select. Heavier skiers will generally opt for longer skis, while lighter skiers should go for shorter lengths.
2nd criterion: skiing style
Unlike other disciplines such as alpine skiing, your level of ability has little impact on the choice of ski length. Instead, it is the type of outing that will guide your choice of touring ski length. There are three main categories of touring skis, each suited to a different approach to ski touring: lightweight touring skis for performance, versatile touring skis, and freetouring skis. Discover how to select the right length for your future pair of backcountry skis.
Men/women: the same selection criteria?
When it comes to choosing the right length of touring skis, the criteria do not fundamentally differ between men and women. Body type, technical level, type of activity and snow conditions remain the main parameters. However, some women’s models may feature specific features, such as a slightly forward mounting position to optimise balance, or a flex adapted to lighter builds. The key is therefore to base your choice on height, weight and intended use rather than gender, to find a ski perfectly suited to your needs.
What length should you choose for lightweight touring skis?
Lightweight touring skis prioritise performance on the ascent over comfort on the descent. For skiers focused on fast climbs and fitness, ski weight is the enemy. You should therefore opt for narrow and lightweight skis to maximise efficiency during the uphill. To save weight, it is generally advised to choose skis 10 to 20 centimetres shorter than your height. As a guideline, around 160 cm for taller skiers and 150 cm for smaller builds. If you mainly enjoy ski touring close to ski areas, you can add a few extra centimetres for greater comfort on the descent.
What length should you choose for all-round touring skis?
If you want to enjoy downhill skiing to the fullest without struggling too much on the way up, you should opt for versatile touring skis.
A little wider underfoot than lightweight models, they offer greater skiability. To strike the right balance between comfort and manageable weight on ascents, you should choose skis around 5 to 15 centimetres shorter than your height.
What length should you choose for freetouring skis?
Finally, if you prioritise downhill performance and don’t mind a bit more effort on the way up, we recommend freetouring skis.
Freetouring skis are wider to maximise skiability. Some freetouring skiers even opt for traditional alpine skis fitted with touring bindings. For freetouring skis with a waist width between 85 and 95 mm, which still ensures versatility, you should choose skis equal to your height. If you prefer an even more downhill-oriented ski with a waist between 95 and 120 mm, you can go slightly longer for added comfort.
Frequently asked questions
What level of skiing is required for ski touring?
This is a valid question. Ski touring is usually practised by experienced skiers with solid skills. When selecting your equipment, it is therefore assumed that you are already very comfortable on skis.
What ski length should you choose based on your height?
As explained in our guide, the length of your skis depends mainly on your skiing style and your weight. Depending on this, you may need a model shorter than your height, or slightly longer.
What ski width should you choose for touring skis?
This will also depend on your chosen discipline. For freetouring skiers, who are looking for maximum enjoyment on the descent, the width of the ski directly influences the length you should choose.
So, which type of touring ski suits you best?
Lightweight touring for big climbs, versatile skis to enjoy fresh snow whenever possible, or freetouring for maximum fun on the descent – at Glisshop you’ll always find the touring skis of your dreams.
Having good backcountry skis is great, but remember to keep part of your budget for essential safety equipment when venturing off-piste. Alongside good terrain knowledge and sensible caution, carrying a mountain safety kit with an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe – and knowing how to use them even under pressure – is vital for reducing risk. You can also complement this kit with an avalanche airbag backpack.