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You are here: Experts > Recreation/Outdoors > Snowboarding > Skiing and other snow sports > size of junior skis
Expert: Lisa Willis, RN
Date: 4/14/2008
Subject: size of junior skis
Question
hi lisa
my children are 10 and 12 and just under 5ft tall with slim build.
My 12yr old is a low intermediate and my 10yr old is a high beginner. I have seen a fab deal for some ross skis that are 130cm in length. are these long enough?
Also I am an intermediate skier whose confidence has gone since ripping my knee to shreds. any tips on how to get it back and also the one thing that is stopping me progressing is i am scared of compact and icy, again any tips on how to ski on that and overcome my fear. My partner is going from strength to strength and will ski on anything and im holding him back now.
please help asap.
thanks
Answer
Hi and thanks for the question
skis these days are not always about length it is more about the make-up of the ski and the speed and style of the skier.
Those who like to do lots of turns usually like softer shorter, whilst those who like to go fast will need a stiffer longer ski.
Note longer is only about 5-10cm.
The other consideration is that kids keep growing, so at 130cm you will probably find they will only do you one season. Aim to get skis about eye height will mean you will have a better chance at getting 2 seasons out of them. 130 - does that come up to at least their chin? But then you have to take into consideration the stiffness and type of ski it is.
For yourself -
you need to strengthen you quads, hamstrings, lowerback, abdo and calves. by doing this you will take some of the strain off your knees.
However - if you are skiing correctly - there isnt alotof strain on your knees - so perhaos shouting yourself a few lessons will be the best money you spend if you enjoy skiing with your family. I suggest a few private lessons will be your most beneficial as you need to make finer adjustments and you may need help to adjust the way you ski [especially if one knoee is worse than the other].
Lots of walking, bike riding and swimming [use a kickboard] if you are unable to do squats and the likes. Strengthen your abdo and lower back as these are the major muscle groups to hold you up improving the way you stand on your skis.
Icy condititions are difficult to master. Most often people overlook the condition of their equipment. If you know its going to be icy - take the time to get some edges on your skis. The best tipi can give you is to not make any "sudden moves". When you are on ice - think about decreasing the number of movements you make - you have to quieten your body so you dont lose balance and then over compensate to correct it. Try sideslipping - get a feel for your edges, know where they are and how to get on them. Sideslipping is also the best way to improve the way you stand on your skis - thats why so many people find it difficult to do.
I hope there is some useful information here
if you need clarification or more info, feel free
to ask.
goodluck
lisa
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