How do l tell? They come in so many different sizes. l have rented all my skis before but now im actually buying some.

Depends on ur skill level & how u plan on skiing.

1.) The better u are, the longer a ski u can handle.

2.) If u enjoy moguls (i.e., tight quick turns), then go with shorter skis. If u enjoy long fast banzai runs downhill that irritate the ski patrol (my favorites), then u will want a longer ski.

Short answer: Go to the ski shop & ask them for help. Rent a set of short ones, then a set of long ones & see which ones u enjoy more.

Depends on your abilities. Are you Expert, Intermediate, or a Beginner. Also how tall you are, Stand up straight and raise your arm straight up with your fingers pointing at the celing, the tip of the ski should hit the middle of your palm or be very close to it. l am 5'8'' Intermediate and l usually use a 200 for speed and a 185 if l am doing mogules.

l usually rent mine so each time l go, l get the best shis for me. If you buy, the skis will only stay your siz e for so long.

Normally l do not answer this question.since it has been asked so many times. Research the questions first. But since there is bad advice here. l feel like it is my duty to chip in.

Ski length DOES depend on ability. True.

Ski length DOES depend on use. True. However, a true ''mogul ski'' is actually built very differently from the all-mountain ski u will probably buy.

The old rule of holding ur arm tall & having the ski just touch ur palm DOES NOT hold true any longer with shaped skis. That person never upgraded!

So, go to a ski shop, as u need them to help u anyways mount bindings & such, & they will recommend the appropriate length.

Assuming u r somewhat of a beginner - no offense - u will probably be getting a ski that comes to ur chin or mouth when standing next to it.

Good luck!