Race skis for 8 & 9 year olds

Question
Hello Lisa:

What race ski's (& length) would you recommend for my 8 year old son and 9 year old daughter. My son is approx. 65 lbs and 4ft/5in  and my daughter is 70lbs and 4ft/7in. Both have been racing for a couple of years.

Your advice is much appreciated!
H

Answer
Hi Heather & thanks for the question.

For kids that age - skis will not be something they will use for very long due to ongoing growth spurts. It isnt uncommon to go thru 2 sets in a season as you may already know.

The other issue to consider is the type of racing they are doing as this can also determine the type of snow they will be on. The tighter slalom events need a smaller raduis/sidecut and be more springy whereas GS style races require more stiffness and a wider sidecut for the faster speeds.

Choosing skis a little longer will give them longer useage; however this can also make it more difficult until they have grown - which can be disheartening if they are not used to adjusting their skills or dealing with change[you may have seen this with kids chucking it in or having spats at races &/or training sessions].

If you can stick to second hand skis you will not be out of pocket as much. Look for ski swap meets that occur around sept/oct all over north america - or you could try your local ski shops as they may be selling off last years stock at a reduced price. Go with skis that are about eye-nose in length at the beginning of the season. But with growth spurts an unknown entity it can be tricky stuff. They should be able to share skis if needed until there is an obvious physical difference in them - weight and strength.

With second hand skis - make sure the binding is suited to your child. There are numbers on the toe piece - ensure they are within the range your child needs to reduce the rik of injury.

There are many brands of skis available as im sure you are aware - and when choosing a brand, kids are often more taken with either the name or the graphics. The basic technology at those lengths will be similar. Aim more for a ski that will flex under their weight. Get them to hold the tip of the ski in their non-writing hand and use the other to push between the binding - if they cant bend it - chances are the ski will be too stiff for them to ski unless they are into GS or super G courses.

The other more important factor often overlooked i believe is ski boots. Your kids feet will be better off in the long run if they are in appropriately fitting boots.

During the summer - develop leg strength riding bikes, playing soccer, ice skating, roller blading [also great for balance], running and more as tey will notice the difference next season. Be aware of growth spurts and higher risk activity as the risk of an injury increases during these times whilst the bones harden again.

Hope this helps some, sorry i cannot give more specific information without seeing your kids ski and which skis are available to them. If you need anymore info - just ask

lisa