How To Pick Skis For Ski Racing

Ski racing is an exciting sport for kids, and choosing the right skis can make all the difference in performance, safety, and fun. At Utah Ski Gear, we know that the right equipment helps young athletes build confidence on the slopes. Here’s a guide to help athletes from U8 through U12 pick the perfect skis! In addition to this guide, it is always important to consult your coaches for their recommendations.   

Consider Age & Size

Kids grow fast, and ski length is crucial for both control and safety. In general, shorter skis are easier to turn and control, therefore the best option for beginners or smaller races. Longer skis provide more stability at higher speeds, more ideal for experienced ski racers.

Most ski racing guidelines will instruct you to select a ski length that lands somewhere between the child's chin and forehead, but always consider their skill level and comfort first.

Race Ski Size Chart

Racer Weight (Pounds)	Combi Ski Length (cm)	Slalom Ski Length (cm)	Giant Slalom Ski Length (cm)
40-50	100-110
50-60	110-120
60-70	120-130	120-130	130-140
70-80	130-140	125-130	134-145
80-90		130-140	140-150
90-100		135-145	145-155
100-110		140-150	150-165
110-120		145-155	160-175
120-130		150-160	170-180
130-140		150-160	175-185
140-150		165	180+
150+		155-165	180+

Types of Ski Racing Skis

Though there are more than two types of skis for racing, for young racers, you'll mainly encounter Slalom and Giant Slalom (GS) skis. Some kids may start on all-mountain skis or "combi" (combination) skis and transition into race-specific skis as they progress.

Slalom skis are shorter and more agile, making them perfect for quick turns and weaving between gates.

Giant Slalom (GS) skis are longer, slightly more stiff, and designed for faster, sweeping turns that a GS course requires. 

Combi skis offer seamless blend of GS and SL performance in a single ski, an ideal all-in-one race ski for young competitors aiming to refine their technique and excel on the course.

SHOP RACE SKIS ON UTAHSKIGEAR.COM >

Ski Flex

A skis flex, or how much a ski can bend, affects both speed and control. Softer skis with more flex allow for more forgiveness and easier turns- best for younger or less experienced racers. Stiffer skis are less forgiving, but offer more precision and stability at higher speeds- best for more advanced racers.

At Utah Ski Gear, our goal is to math a ski's flex to your child's weight, strength, and skill level.

Expert Advice At Utah Ski Gear

Choosing the right skis for a young racer isn’t just about length—it’s about the whole setup: ski type, flex, bindings, and boots. A well-matched setup boosts confidence, safety, and performance on the slopes.

Utah Ski Gear has ski racing experts available via phone, email, or stop by our Performance Center and we will help you shop for gear that best fits your needs. We're here to help recommend skis based on age, size, and racing style. We also offer ski racing boots, bindings, and other ski racing and tuning equipment to get you and your skis ready for the race course. 

If your child is ready to race or you want to upgrade their equipment, stop by Utah Ski Gear or browse our kid’s ski racing collection online. Let’s set them up for success this season! Come in anytime or sign up for a ski race outfitting appointment so we know exactly how we can help you based on your budget, your discipline, and more.