How Do You Pick Shorter Skis?

Ready to break out of the long-ski mold and try something a little more adventurous? Short skis might be the right answer! They’re lighter, easier to control, and bring a level of excitement that’s hard to beat. But with a range of sizes and styles, how do you pick the right pair of short skis for you? 

Why Go Short? 

First things first—why choose short skis at all? Skiing with shorter boards opens up a whole new world of possibilities on the slopes:

1. Enhanced Agility

Short skis respond faster, making turns and tricks feel effortless. You’ll be weaving through trees or tackling tight trails with ease.

2. Ease of Control 

Beginners, rejoice! Short skis are less intimidating and easier to handle than their longer counterparts, making them an excellent entry point for new skiers.

3. Versatility 

Whether you’re cruising down groomed trails, hitting the moguls, or even attempting some freestyle moves, short skis adapt to a variety of terrains and skiing styles.

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder more and more skiers are turning to shorter lengths for a fresh, fun experience on the slopes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Short Skis

So, what should you keep in mind when choosing the perfect short skis? Here are the top factors that’ll guide you to the ideal match:

Skill Level 

Beginners tend to do well with shorter lengths, as they’re easy to maneuver. Intermediate and advanced skiers might opt for slightly longer short skis to handle higher speeds and varied terrain.

Terrain Preference 

Are you sticking to groomed trails, heading off-piste, or spending time in the terrain park? Different lengths excel in different environments.

Your Goals 

Think about what you want to achieve with short skis. Are you here for speed, control, tricks, or all-around fun? Your goals can point you toward the right ski length.

Snowfeet Skiblades 65

If you’re looking for a playful, freestyle-friendly ride, the Snowfeet Skiblades 65 are the go-to option. These ultra-short skiblades are designed for those who want a mix of skiing and skating action on the slopes.

Who They’re For

Beginners: If you’re new to skiing, the 65 cm length makes learning a breeze. The short length helps reduce that “lost control” feeling, giving you confidence right from the start.
Freestyle Enthusiasts: For skiers who want to incorporate some tricks into their ride, the 65 cm skiblades are perfect. They’re lightweight, easy to maneuver, and great for spins and jumps.

Best Terrain

These skiblades shine on groomed trails, in terrain parks, or anywhere you want to attempt some creative moves. Their short length makes them easy to control on packed snow and in tighter spaces.

Why Choose the 65s?

The Snowfeet Skiblades 65 offer a fun, unique experience that blends skiing with a skating-like feel. If you’re looking for a fresh take on traditional skiing and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of speed for playfulness, these are your dream blades.

Snowfeet Skiblades 99

For skiers who want versatility and control with a touch of stability, the Snowfeet Skiblades 99 hit the sweet spot. At 99 cm, these skiblades balance the agility of shorter skis with a bit more length for added control at speed.

Who They’re For

Intermediate Skiers: If you’re ready to up your skiing game, the 99 cm skiblades offer enough length to handle steeper slopes without feeling overwhelming.
All-Mountain Riders: The Snowfeet 99s are ideal for skiers who want to explore different terrains, from groomed runs to light off-piste conditions.

Best Terrain

The 99 cm skiblades are well-suited for all-mountain adventures, whether you’re tackling moguls, exploring backcountry trails, or just cruising. Their longer length adds stability, making them a great choice for mixed terrain.

Why Choose the 99s?

The Snowfeet Skiblades 99 are incredibly versatile. They’re long enough to keep up with various terrains but still short enough for quick, agile moves. If you’re looking for one pair of short skis to do it all, the 99s are a solid pick.

Snowfeet Skiblades 120

If you want short skis that offer a touch more stability for higher speeds and challenging terrain, the Snowfeet Skiblades 120 are calling your name. While they’re still compact compared to traditional skis, their added length brings a bit more speed and confidence for steeper descents.

Who They’re For

Advanced Skiers: Experienced skiers who are comfortable with higher speeds and a bit more challenge will love the Snowfeet 120. They handle like traditional skis with the added benefit of short-ski agility.

Speed Enthusiasts: If you crave speed, the 120 cm skiblades give you the extra surface area needed for faster runs without sacrificing too much maneuverability.

Best Terrain

The Snowfeet Skiblades 120 are designed for all-mountain exploration. They’re stable enough for packed snow, light powder, and even some off-piste runs. While they’re agile, they’re also long enough to provide a smooth, stable ride at higher speeds.

Why Choose the 120s?

The Snowfeet Skiblades 120 give you the best of both worlds: the speed and stability of longer skis and the playfulness of short skis. If you’re an advanced skier looking to take on a variety of terrains without feeling confined to the limits of traditional skis, these are the blades for you.

How to Choose Your Ideal Short Skis: A Quick Decision Guide

To sum it up, here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide which Snowfeet Skiblade length is best for you:

Go with the 65 cm if you’re a beginner or freestyle enthusiast who wants to focus on tricks and tight turns.

Opt for the 99 cm if you’re an intermediate skier or all-mountain adventurer looking for balance and versatility.

Choose the 120 cm if you’re an advanced skier who loves speed and stability, especially for exploring a mix of terrains.

Each length brings something unique to the table, allowing you to tailor your short-ski experience to match your skills, goals, and the type of terrain you enjoy most.

Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Short Skis

Once you’ve chosen your ideal length, here are some tips to make the most of your short-ski experience:

1. Experiment with Terrain

Short skis are all about variety. Try them on groomed runs, moguls, and even light powder to see how they handle.

2. Practice Quick Turns

Shorter lengths allow for quick, sharp turns. Practice on gentler slopes to get used to the response, then take your skills to steeper runs.

3. Work on Balance

Short skis demand good balance. Shift your weight slightly forward to keep control and avoid leaning back.

4. Have Fun with Tricks

If you’re on the 65 cm or 99 cm skiblades, try some basic tricks in a safe environment. The shorter length is perfect for spins, jumps, and even backward skiing.

Which pair is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!