Slalom Ski Size

Slalom Ski Size

>Can someone give me some tips on choosing the right size
>slalom ski?

There are a number of factors involved in choosing the right size ski. Weight is the predominant factor, but skiing speed may also be important. For recreational skiers there may also be factors such as boat horsepower.

Weight
How much you weigh plays an important role. Many manufacturers use weight alone as the guide for ski length. A typical average is something like over 175lbs=67" under 175lbs=65". But of course this varies depending on the model of the ski. For example a ski designed for women might be rated rated at over 125lbs=67" and under 125lbs=65" as long as the ski was specifically designed for women. Many manufacturers make larger or smaller skis for larger or smaller skiers. For example, a 190lb skier might consider a 69" or 70" ski instead.
Skiing Speed
How fast you ski also plays a role in ski size selection. If you are a recreational skier that skis at 26-30mph you might consider a longer ski. If you are a slalom course skier running 36mph then you would consider a smaller ski (and you probably wouldn't be reading this either!).
Other Factors
There are many other factors that can affect your decision about ski size. For example if you have a very low powered boat or weigh in pretty heavy (200lbs+) you might consider a very long ski such as a 72 inch to help you get up easier and ski easier.

A table in the 1994 HO sports ski catalog provides most of the information you might need as a general guide to ski size selection. It is always best to check the information provided for the actual ski you are considering buying for the most accurate size selection.

Slalom Sizing Guide (weight in lbs, speed in mph)

Speed->    26-30      30-34      34-36
Weight

80-110     63-64"     62-64"     -----
95-120     65-66"     63-64"     63-64"
115-140    65-66"     65-66"     63-64"
135-160    67-68"     65-66"     65-66"
155-180      69"      67-68"     67-68"
175-200      69"        69"      67-78"
195-220      72"        69"        69" 
215-up       72"        72"        72"

Combination sets (two skis) are not usually sized in this manner. A typical combination set of skis is usually around 67", but you can also purchase smaller (63" or 65") sets for junior skiers and you can hunt and find larger sets for BIG skiers. Really big skiers might consider using a pair of jump skis for combo skis. Jump skis are very large, very wide, and provide big lift to get a large skier out of the water. Jump skis are also BIG dollars!