Tips for Renting Ski Equipment: Tips and Ski Size Chart

Buying your own ski equipment is quite an investment. If you’re not a frequent skier, renting ski equipment is a sensible and more financially-savvy decision. 

But, before you commit to any online ski rentals, familiarise yourself with how to size up for ski boots and skis. If you’re a first-timer, we’re hoping to make the process a little bit easier with our ski size chart, and some tips on how to choose the best boots and skis for yourself and / or your children.

Our guide provides all the renting tips to find your best fit when choosing skis and ski boots, and save your precious vacation time.

Choosing the Correct Ski Length

It’s true what they say: there is no “right” ski length, we can only talk about the “best” ski length. 

Each skier is unique in terms of size, preferences, skiing style and ability level. However, some basic rules apply. Here is a simple ski length calculator with a suggested range for your height, in the hopes of finding you a pair of skis you love!

Adults ski size chart

Kids ski size chart

As you can see, recommended ski length range varies by 20 centimetres. The above size chart is just the first clue, but your right ski length depends on many factors. Let’s get into more detail to find you the best fitting rental ski equipment!

Level of Ski Ability

When it comes to your ability on the slopes, there is a secret “rule of thumb” to get the correct ski length calculator. Most ski rental employees use it and it’s easy to remember. Stand upright and put one ski in front of you vertically:

• For a beginner skier, the right ski length should be between the chin and the lips;
• For an intermediate skier, the best ski length will be from the lips to the eyes;
• If you’re a pro, the recommended ski length is between the eyes to the top of the head and above
  

  Type of Terrain

  At a ski rental, you will definitely be asked you about your terrain preferences as well, because that’s another factor to determine the right ski length for you. For example:

  • Longer and more stable skis will be best if you prefer steep runs and free ride;
  • Skiing among trees is really exciting and requires more manoeuvrability, therefore recommended ski length is around your chin;
  • Hitting up a terrain park or looking for freestyle skis? Get shorter skis.

Body Type

Opinions vary, but in reality, there are no particular differences in men’s ski length and women’s ski length. However, taller and heavier, or a more advanced skier, you will feel more comfortable on longer skis. 

The best ski length for smaller and lighter skiers are around the chin, similarly to beginner skis. Weight generally plays an important role when fitting your skis with ski boots, so be ready to name the number of your weight at ski rental.

Skiing Style

The right ski length also depends on what type of skier you are. Generally, there are two types:

1. Improving technique and going slower by doing many turns;
2. Going down more aggressively, high speed skiing and with fewer turns.

If you’re the first skier, the best types of skis will be those on the shorter side. Although less stable, short skis are more fit for manoeuvring. If you’re the second type of skier, rentals will suggest that above the eyes to the top of the head is the correct ski length for you.

Type of Terrain

At a ski rental, you will definitely be asked you about your terrain preferences as well, because that’s another factor to determine the right ski length for you. For example:

• Longer and more stable skis will be best if you prefer steep runs and free ride;
• Skiing among trees is really exciting and requires more manoeuvrability, therefore recommended ski length is around your chin;
• Hitting up a terrain park or looking for freestyle skis? Get shorter skis.

You may also like: 3 Tips on Keeping Skis Clean

A Guide to Renting Ski Boots

Choosing the correct ski length is, of course, essential, but knowing the boot size might be even more important if you’re up for some rental ski equipment, because your day on the slopes largely depends on how your feet are feeling.

Mondopoint

Ski boots use a foot size system called Mondopoint. Here’s how to see what Mondopoint size you are by checking your current shoe size.

Adults ski boot size chart

Kids ski boot size chart

Fitting is Key

This chart may not be 100% accurate. Make sure you actually try the boost on. Fitting is key!

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when fitting ski boots:

• Try the boots on and stand steady and upright;
• If your toes press against the tip of the liner mildly, that’s the right size;
• Don’t be afraid if the boots feel a bit too small when trying on new ones – they will adjust in a few runs

Whether you’re travelling from Geneva to Meribel, Grenoble to Chamonix or Innsbruck to Ischgl, Alps2Alps ski rental makes booking private ski transfers and sorting equipment a breeze!

Find these ski equipment renting tips useful? Feel free to share this article with your friends and have the best time on Alpine slopes with perfectly fitting skiing gear!