Correct length of slalom skis

Question
Hi Lisa, I'm currently enrolled in Masters race training in NZ. I'm 176cm tall, 75kg and although far from an expert skier yet, I like to go fast. I currently ski 170cm Rossignol Zenith 5's. At some stage I would like to buy proper Slalom skis just for racing. For Masters racing there are no length restrictions even for FIS events. I know slalom skis are shorter, but I can't find recommendations for slalom ski length. What length would you suggest? Is it a trade off between manoeuvrability and stability at speed?

Answer
Hi Paul and thanks for the question. Sorry for the delay i have been up in sydney for the city2surf. And a side note - im in the masters games here starting this weekend...but no snow for me im afraid.

In a simple answer to your question - yes.

Skis are so individual that it is difficult to give specific information without seeing you
ski and the way you handle them.  I would suggest going with a ski you enjoy skiing on - because at the end of the day its about the pure pleasure of the sport. As we get older, having the ski react more appropriatley to our needs far out-weighs the brand and graphics.

As for lengths - same again, everyone skis differently and with the way a ski is designed and balanced you could choose a number of lengths. Id suggest a chin height to begin with and try up and down from there. Remember the stiffer the ski, the shorter you can go, but the more effort needed to turn it. Longer ski, a little more effort to turn, but more stable under foot at faster speed. Try before you buy is my number one recommendation especially when you want the ski for a specific task like slalom.

Sorry i cant be more specific, its all about personal preferance & what works best for you. Most places should allow you to deduct the rental price off the retail sale of their high end skis so you can try them.

Good luck in your races, and have a most wonderful time

lisa