How Long Should Cross-Country Skis Be? Finding the Right Size

We are right in the middle of a cross-country skiing holiday in Norway. We brought a pair of skis from home, but it quickly became relevant to head down and hire an extra pair of cross-country skis in a better size from the local ski rental.

Are you about to buy or hire cross-country skis yourself? Then read on here, where we recommend how long your skis and poles should be.

Why does choosing the correct length matter?

The length of your cross-country skis and poles directly affects your performance, control and comfort on the track. The wrong size can lead to imbalance, fatigue and even injury.

Cross-country skis: how do you determine the length?

The length of your cross-country skis depends on several factors, including your weight, height, skill level and the type of cross-country skiing you plan to do. Generally, cross-country skis should be longer than your own height. Here is a simple table as a starting point:

Recommended ski length based on the skier’s height

Skier’s height	Recommended ski length
Under 160 cm	-10 cm
160-170 cm	-5 cm
170-180 cm	Standard length
180-190 cm	+5 cm
Over 190 cm	+10 cm

This is a general guide, and individual preferences can vary.

Cross-country poles: how do you determine the length?

Cross-country poles play an important role in keeping your balance and giving push while skiing. As with the skis, the length depends on several factors, including your height and ski type. Here is a table to help you find the right length:

Recommended pole length based on the skier’s height

Skier’s height	Recommended pole length
Under 160 cm	120-135 cm
160-170 cm	135-145 cm
170-180 cm	145-155 cm
180-190 cm	155-165 cm
Over 190 cm	165-175 cm

The poles should be longer than ordinary ski poles to suit the cross-country technique.

Three things to take into account when choosing skis and poles

1. Skill level: If you are a beginner, shorter skis and poles can be easier to control. Experienced cross-country skiers may prefer longer gear for greater speed and stability.
2. Terrain: If you plan to explore uneven terrain or hills, shorter skis can be more manoeuvrable, while longer skis can be more stable on flat stretches.
3. Ski style: Classic cross-country skiing often requires shorter skis, while skate skis are often longer to increase the gliding distance.

How to find the right length for your cross-country skis and poles

Use the tables as a starting point, then adjust for your own preferences and skill level. The right length makes every trip on the track smoother and more efficient.

Are you like us and simply cannot get enough of cross-country skiing? Then we have also written a big guide with everything you need to know about cross-country skiing as a beginner.