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10 Best Skis for Kids Tested for Safety & Performance in 2024

last updated Oct 01, 2019

Often partnered up with snowboarding, skiing is a wonderful winter activity that both parents and children can enjoy. Your child will love experiencing the slopes and riding alongside you down the mountain. Most of the products on our top ten list are perfect for beginners and are ideal for places such as parks, hills, and mountains, your child will be able to experience these different ground levels. Skiing is an amazing family activity because it does not matter whether you are a beginner or an expert! We are sure you will find the perfect set of skis on our list so that your youngster can hit those snowy slopes with you in no time. These are the best-rated and the most-reviewed items of this category that buyers love and are recommending to others. We are excited to highlight them here for your shopping pleasure.

In a Hurry? The test winner after 30 hrs of research

icon
Volkl 2017 Wall Junior
94.2/100 our score
Durability
95
Age Range
94
Ease of Use
93
Materials
95
Price Range
94
Volkl 2017 Wall Junior
Why is it better?

Holds up to the rigors of park skiing

Perfect for the young skier with some skills

Performs well in softer snow

Includes a standard wood core

The finish is rounded and clean

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Volkl 2017 Wall Junior
Test Winner: Volkl 2017 Wall Junior
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Researched Sources
20
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
30
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
16
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Angeline Mirenda:

We’ve expanded the “Durability” analysis for all of our products. We’ve also added two new skis to the list (the 2019 Blizzard Cochise and the K2 2018 MissConduct Jr).

Sorting Options
Durability Age Range Ease of Use Materials Price Range By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.2
Durability
95 %
Age Range
94 %
Ease of Use
93 %
Materials
95 %
Price Range
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.4
Durability
94 %
Age Range
93 %
Ease of Use
90 %
Materials
92 %
Price Range
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89
Durability
91 %
Age Range
93 %
Ease of Use
85 %
Materials
89 %
Price Range
87 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.8
Durability
89 %
Age Range
92 %
Ease of Use
87 %
Materials
87 %
Price Range
89 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.4
Durability
89 %
Age Range
90 %
Ease of Use
86 %
Materials
84 %
Price Range
88 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.6
Durability
87 %
Age Range
89 %
Ease of Use
84 %
Materials
83 %
Price Range
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84.8
Durability
86 %
Age Range
87 %
Ease of Use
82 %
Materials
83 %
Price Range
86 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.4
Durability
84 %
Age Range
85 %
Ease of Use
82 %
Materials
81 %
Price Range
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81
Durability
83 %
Age Range
83 %
Ease of Use
81 %
Materials
79 %
Price Range
79 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
79.2
Durability
81 %
Age Range
78 %
Ease of Use
80 %
Materials
78 %
Price Range
79 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (23.04.24)
Amazon Link

10 Best Skis for Kids Reviewed

1. Volkl 2017 Wall Junior

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.2
volkl 2017 skis for kids black and white
Amazon Link
Durability
95
Age Range
94
Ease of Use
93
Materials
95
Price Range
94
best offer for today
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Holds up to the rigors of park skiing

Perfect for the young skier with some skills

Performs well in softer snow

Includes a standard wood core

The finish is rounded and clean

Made primarily for boys

Not really for beginner skiers

This popular ski model is the kid version of the skis that famous skier Ahmet Dadali wears for performing in terrain parks. It is a wood-core full-rocker ski that holds up to the rigors of park skiing, as kids get more creative with their abilities.

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These can take the punishment as carvers and are perfect for the young skier that is not comfortable with all of the mountain terrain areas. These outstanding skis will keep a good grip on the edge and perform well in softer snow. They have a standard wood core for the best durability and performance, plus the finish is rounded and clean because of the top sheet that covers the edge well. Torsional rigidity is added because of this construction and decreases the chipping of the top sheet. Kids think this construction looks amazing, so they are very pleased with this style.

Durability

The standard wood core and the rounded finish of this product are long-lasting and durable for many years on the slopes. built for great performance and punishment they can handle the wear and abuse from the sport well. The Volkl Junior Racetigers meet all USSA (United States Ski and Snowboard Association) and FIS (Fédération Internationale de Ski) regulations, meaning that they are safe to take to the slopes!

Age range

Once your child has mastered balance and coordination on skis, they may be ready for these skis that perform on several snow surfaces and mountain terrain areas. This is usually the older kids and teens that are at this stage of skiing.

Ease of use

Whether your child likes to ski in the mountains, hills, or parks, these wonderful skis will allow them the flexibility to do well in all places. The various terrains offer them much in skill development chances.

Materials

Skis should look as well as they perform on the snow. These Volkl Wall Junior Skis look every bit as fantastic as they how they execute the swift moves on the snow. Kids will love how they look and feel.

Price range

These terrific skis are the lowest in cost among the other skis we feature in this guide. They are valued for their popularity, solid wood construction, and outstanding top sheet finishing.

2. Volkl 2018 Mantra Junior

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92.4
volkla 2018 mantra skis for kids junior
Amazon Link
Durability
94
Age Range
93
Ease of Use
90
Materials
92
Price Range
93
best offer for today
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Has a gradual smooth bend from the tail to the tip

Provides edge contact that is interrupted

For expert and advanced skiers

Made for skiing every day

Suitable for all-mountain terrains

Does not include the bindings

Made primarily for boys

These junior skis from Volkl include a solid wood core and are the full-rocker type of skis. They have a gradual smooth bend from the tail to the tip and a flex pattern and are made for skiing every day. Made just for expert and advanced skiers, they are flexible in softer conditions, have a short turning radius, and are suitable for all-mountain terrains.

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The wood core is full sensor offering energy and power for the whole length. They provide edge contact that is interrupted, are hook-free, and are also easy going on groomed terrains. Skiers that possess a good feeling for the slopes and snow will gain much responsiveness and support from these excellent skis.

Durability

When your child has developed the talents necessary to become a good skier, then it is time to upgrade the skis to ones like these. This set of great skis is perfect for all mountain terrains that your child is capable of handling. A full wood core means these kids’ skis are less likely to shatter or splinter since the construction is one solid piece as opposed to multiple tiny fragments adhered together.

Age range

Kids with some talents of skiing already will benefit most from this set of skis. They have capabilities that the beginner does not know how to use at first such as short turns and quick responses.

Ease of use

Perfect for all-mountain terrains, your child with advanced or intermediate abilities will love the flexibility of these skis. Supportive and responsive to the skills of the child, these are great skis for kids or beginning teens.

Materials

The solid wood build of these Volkl Mantra Skis gives the user the command and energy of the terrain. These advanced skis will give them the possibilities that are not offered with beginner skis.

Price range

Costing more than the average of others in this product category, these remarkable skis for boys have a solid wood core, flexibility for multiple terrains, and a full-rocker build.

3. Blizzard Cochise

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89
blizzard cochise skis for kids blue
blizzard cochise skis for kids 2019
blizzard cochise skis for kids 140cm
Amazon Link
Durability
91
Age Range
93
Ease of Use
85
Materials
89
Price Range
87
best offer for today
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Poplar and beech wood core

Lightweight

Good turn radius

Fashioned after adult Freeride line

High price tag

No mounted bindings included

Kids who enjoy that freeing, surfing feeling will like the 2019 Bilzzard Cochise. This set of children’s skis is designed after the Adult Freeride Line, giving them an effortlessly cool and mature feel. They’re tapered for kids and beginners, though, with measures taken to ensure that they’re easy to use and sturdy.

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Durability

Made with a poplar and beech wood core, this ski set is lightweight but made for longevity. Most manufacturers today balance a blend of several woods in the core to create the optimal stats for weight, flexibility, and strength.

Age Range

There is no specific age range on these skis but they are targeted specifically towards adolescents. Given the dimensions, you should be able to make an educated decision if these are right for your child’s age and build.

Ease of Use

Just strap in and hit the slopes! The 2019 Blizzard Cochise does not include bindings though, so be sure to factor in that you’ll have to purchase and assemble those separately.

Materials

Beech wood and poplar make up the core of these agile skis. The waist width is 95 mm at 150 cm, the radius is 15 m at 150 cm, and the dimensions are 125 mm x 95 mm x 111 mm at 150 cm.

Price Range

These are the most expensive pair of skis on our list. They are also one of the newest models. If you want something in season and up-to-date, these are the pair! But you will find similar pairs from the last few seasons at a slight discount.

4. Nordic Rocks Kid's XC

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.8
nordic rocks skis for kids XC
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Durability
89
Age Range
92
Ease of Use
87
Materials
87
Price Range
89
best offer for today
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Easy on and off

Perfect for beginners

Durable

Adjustable straps

Some customers were concerned about boot size

This children’s ski set is perfect for children between the ages of six and thirteen. It is a beginner style, so it is perfect for those who are a little bit newer to this family favorite winter sport. This ski is perfect for anyone who is trying to trail break, go down a small hill or track in and out.

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This set of skis comes with a set of poles. They are specifically designed for children and are easy for children to get on and off. They are long-lasting and incredibly lightweight. You do not need to worry about whether or not you need ski boots as these skis accommodate any type of boot. Keep in mind, however, that it is always recommended to have the right gear when it comes to learning a new sport so that you can have a better overall outcome. It is however not necessary.

Durability

The wood materials and superb construction of the skis and poles ensure that your kid will be able to enjoy these for several seasons at least. They are tough to take much wear and use on the snow. The Nordic Rocks are recommended for skiers between 35-120 pounds and are best used in cross country skiing.

Age range

Made for the beginner skier to learn the feel and enjoyment of being on skis and to master balance and coordination, these are best for the ages of six to thirteen for both girls and boys.

Ease of use

Simple and easy to put on and take off for kids, this product includes a set of ski poles to make the coordination of hands and feet easier and balancing the body core while strapped in and on the ice.

Materials

Made of a strong wooden core with lifted front tips, this set of ideal skis will give your child the opportunity to develop their talents on the snow with a lightweight and flexible product.

Price range

Coming in at the lower end of our price category, these skis are the perfect beginner set. Whether it is your child’s first day of ski club or your family’s 100th trip to the Alps, this set is guaranteed to bring a whole new level of fun to even the smallest members of your team!

5. K2 Poacher Jr.

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.4
K2 poacher skis for kids junior
K2 poacher skis for kids close up
K2 poacher skis for kids 139cm
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Durability
89
Age Range
90
Ease of Use
86
Materials
84
Price Range
88
best offer for today
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Made of a full-length core of aspen wood

Performance is all-mountain and ski park

Has a rockered tail and tip and a camber underfoot

For advanced and intermediate skill levels

Are cap skis that are more forgiving and lighter

Does not come with bindings

Made with the skills of boys in mind

Made of a full-length core of aspen wood, the K2 Poacher Jr Kids Skis are core resilient and lightweight. The performance is all-mountain and ski park and can be used to test individual speed limits.

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Used on firm slopes these have an easy exit and initiation of turn with a rockered tail and tip and a camber underfoot. Designed for advanced and intermediate skill levels, the K2 Poacher Jr Skis have a medium flex and are cap skis that are more forgiving and lighter in weight than other leading models. The pair you receive will be different in color than your peers because of the varied colorways of the base. This is just in case you have the same model and ski together frequently.

Durability

Made for speed and power endurance, both advanced and intermediate users will love these skis. They are durable, sturdy, and long-lasting for outstanding performance on firm slopes. K2 uses aspen wood in most of their skis’ cores. It provides greater flexibility and elasticity. K2’s also tend to have less rebound and core life, though.

Age range

Best for older kids that have some abilities on the slopes already, advanced and intermediate levels will perform well with this item. Beginners will not be able to appreciate the built-in qualities or use them at first.

Ease of use

These wonderful skis can be used both on the mountain and at the park since they are highly adaptable. This versatility will gain the young skier much in talents for navigating on various surfaces.

Materials

The manufacturer even thought to include a way to tell your skis from your friends’ skis if you happen to have the same model. With varied colorways, your skis will be slightly different than the others.

Price range

With an above-average price, these K2 Poacher Skis are good for all terrains and those with some acquired abilities on the slopes or at the park. Being lighter weight, the possibilities are endless for gaining new ground.

6. Salomon QST Max JR

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85.6
salomon QST skis for kids max jr
salomon QST skis for kids 150cm
Amazon Link
Durability
87
Age Range
89
Ease of Use
84
Materials
83
Price Range
85
best offer for today
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Comes with bindings suitable for up to 109 pounds

Absorbs terrain well and permits intuitive turns

Pivots are much easier than other models

Made of a mix of quality fibers

Perfect for intermediates and beginners

Not usable for heavier weights of kids

Geared more toward male users

The Salomon QST Max Jr Skis include a composite core and the Easyflex technology that is soft. They have a construction of Monocoque Cap that is forgiving and soft to gain proper technique and come with bindings suitable for up to 109 pounds.

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Featuring a middle camber and contact that is full-length, they provide strong power, stability, and edge grip. These wonderful skis absorb terrain well and permit intuitive turns, plus pivots are much easier than other models because they are flat. The Salomon Max skis give faster progress and include less fatigue. They are made of a mix of quality fibers that make them lightweight and have a short turning radius. These are all-terrain rockers that are perfect for intermediates and beginners. With a softer tail and tip for bending and flexing of the ski, they give added control to the user.

Durability

The strong bindings come with this set of superb skis for kids. Made for all terrain types, these will last for years of wear and use because they are comprised of quality fibers in a great design. They’re made from wood composite to balance out the pros and cons of different wood types. The easyflex technology makes them easier to ride but also more equipped to hold up in rough terrain.

Age range

Both intermediates and beginners will do well with these skis. There is plenty of control and a short turning radius that those with skills will enjoy using and those without will like learning.

Ease of use

Kids that are just starting out in this wonderful sport want to be able to do much more in the beginning than just go straight. With these incredible beginner skis, they can do turns and pivots well.

Materials

The manufacturer used a fusion of different fibers and materials in making these fabulous skis to get a lightweight product. This lesser weight permits users to make quicker turns and move faster on the snow.

Price range

This set of impressive skis has a below-average price. They are valued for their Monocoque Cap build, pivot and turn capabilities, and Easyflex expertise in handling various terrains.

7. K2 2018 MissConduct Jr

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
84.8
K2 2018 missconduct Jr skis for kids
K2 2018 missconduct Jr skis for kids full view
K2 2018 missconduct Jr skis for kids close up
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Durability
86
Age Range
87
Ease of Use
82
Materials
83
Price Range
86
best offer for today
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Versatile build

Easy to use for all levels

Great in multiple conditions

Cute design

Lightweight

No bindings included

The K2 2018 Missconduct Jr is an all-terrain ski for beginner and intermediate level skiiers. These beginners skis are versatile so your little one can enjoy them no matter where you take them! The cap construction make these lightweight as well so you won’t have to assist in carrying quite so much gear.

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Durability

An aspen core makes these lightweight and flexible. They’ll survive all kinds of terrain thanks to aspen’s elasticity.

Age Range

The K2 Missconduct Junior Skis are advertised as being meant for beginner and intermediate-level participants, but advanced skiers may also find these to be useful and comfortable when they hit the slopes.

Ease of Use

A raised tip make these youth skis formidable in soft snow while a camber underfoot gives them power in firmer snow conditions.

Materials

Between the aspen core, the camber underfoot, and the cap construction, you’ll find that these skis are made surprisingly well for a children’s set!

Price Range

These sit just below the average price of skis on our list. They’re sturdy and versatile, making them a good pick if you travel or are unsure about the exact weather/climate conditions of where you’re going.

8. Odoland Beginner

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.4
odolands beginner skis for kids set
odolands beginner skis for kids features
odolands beginner skis for kids measurements
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Durability
84
Age Range
85
Ease of Use
82
Materials
81
Price Range
80
best offer for today
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Has two buttons for fitting that are adjustable

System of quick release

Lightweight with no metal on the edges

Rugged design and round tips

Front end is lifted for low resistance performance

Not made for downhill skiing

Overall quality was flimsy and small said some parents

This ski is perfect for children who are four-years-old and under. So, pretty much, these are for your average toddlers. This incredible set comes with its own durable boards and sturdy poles. The pieces are extremely lightweight, which is perfect when getting toddlers and children interested in the sport. This marvelous item is perfect for beginners or those with a few skills already.

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These sturdy plastic skis are long-lasting and are 100% safe for your toddlers to wear. They are easy for your child to get on and off by themselves and are ideal for your toddler to learn the basics of skiing. Skiing will boost your child’s balance and hand-eye coordination skills, as well as their confidence. There are two buttons for fitting that are adjustable in the provided system of quick release. Made of top-quality anti-cold substances and PE material, the plastic material is lightweight with no metal on the edges. With a rugged design and round tips, the front end of the skis is lifted slightly for low resistance performance.

Durability

Even though they are not made of strong wood or metal, these plastic lightweight skis will last for years of use and wear. They are durably made along with the poles to give the little one a unique experience on the snow. Just make sure you watch for the plastic clips in the bindings. Those seem to be the first piece to falter on these little kids’ skis.

Age range

Made with the toddler in mind, the smallest of children can enjoy the snow and slopes along with the family. Kids under four years in age will do the best with these skis made just for them.

Ease of use

Those with some abilities and beginners will love this item for enjoying the snow. Because they are lightweight and not hard to pick up with the feet, they can be used with or without poles.

Materials

Made of durable plastic, these superb skis do not have any metal edges to be a hazard for the small child. it has anti-cold properties and is lightweight to make the product simple to use.

Price range

With an average cost, these wonderful skis are worth the cost because they have a rugged plastic design, are safe for small kids, and are easy for children to fit and use on their own.

9. K2 Remedy 75 Jr.

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81
K2 remedy skis for kids 75 Jr
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Durability
83
Age Range
83
Ease of Use
81
Materials
79
Price Range
79
best offer for today
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Offers flexibility for young skiers

Mixed snow conditions can be handled well

Provides easier control and fewer impacts

Enhances energy and stability

For all-mountain, pipe, and park terrains

Are just for girls to use

Not best for beginners

The K2 Remedy 75 Jr Ski for kids offers the flexibility for young skiers with some skills to go the extra step in taking on more adventurous areas. The ability level of these skis is intermediate or advanced, and they are made of high-quality aspen wood. They are rocker all-terrain in a twin-tip style. The great colors are various hues of purple, which are perfect for these girl skis.

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Mixed snow conditions can be handled well with the early rise of the tail and tip, and they provide easier control and fewer impacts in rough snow. This outstanding item gives strong energy and grip with the underfoot camber profile and adds ease and versatility in various snow conditions. Having a wood core, this product enhances energy and stability at increased speeds. The terrific skis are easier to manipulate and more predictable because of the light flex pattern and cap construction. The tip is elevated for great performance on soft snow, and the core is resilient and lightweight. Because these are cap skis, they are lighter in weight and resistant to chipping of the top sheet. The K2 Remedy 75 skis are for all-mountain, pipe, and park terrains and have a short turning radius. The included durable bindings are strong and steady.

Durability

The sturdy wood construction of these skis offers the skier flexibility, energy, and stability in conquering new surfaces and speeds. They will last for years of wear even in adverse conditions. K2’s generally use aspen as their wood core. This makes them flexible but means the skis don’t tend to offer a lot of rebound when riding.

Age range

While some skis are designed for the beginner to the sport, this item is not. Made for those with some skiing abilities under their belt, the user should be at the intermediate or advanced level.

Ease of use

Almost all types of sports equipment have different stages and levels for users as they progress in their skill development. These fantastic skis offer much for the intermediate or advanced skier to enjoy.

Materials

Made of solid wood, this amazing product is lightweight and will not chip. It comes with the needed bindings for securing the feet on the skis and can handle increased speeds on the slopes.

Price range

Having an under-average cost, these wonderful skis for girls are made for those with some skiing talents, mixed snow conditions, and more treacherous environments than beginner skis.

10. Rossignol Temptation 2018

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
79.2
rossignol 2018 temptation skis for kids purple
rossignol 2018 temptation skis for kids close Up
rossignol 2018 temptation skis for kids straps
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Durability
81
Age Range
78
Ease of Use
80
Materials
78
Price Range
79
best offer for today
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Perfect for intermediate and beginners

Builds confidence in novice skiers

These are less tiring than regular skis

Makes skiing easier for various terrains

Has composite core materials and a flared tail profile

Are just for girls

Not adequate for advanced skiers

Made for easy performance, the 2018 Rossignol Temptation Pro Junior Skis are great for those with some skills and are looking to gain more abilities in the sport. Differences in terrain can be dealt with much easier because of the rocker profile, plus these build confidences in novice skiers.

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Perfect for intermediates and beginners, these fabulous skis are less tiring than regular skis because of the dynamic core that is lightweight. Skiers of lighter weight are aided with the rocker profile in turns because flexing is easier with these. Made just for young girls, the rocker profile makes skiing easier for all-mountain versatile environments. The flex qualities are not for power but comfortable soft easy skiing. The medium width is good for the versatility of off-trail and all-mountain, and the weight range of the bindings is 49 to 149 pounds. Best used for frontside for on-trail carving includes an Xpress Jr 7 binding, the Rossignol Temptation skis have composite core materials and a flared tail profile.

Durability

With a great medium width and flexible weight range, this ski set is quite durable with its composite core and flared profile. Kids can expect to have many years of good use from this terrific product. Rossignol doesn’t specify the exact type of wood used in the Temptation but they do note that they vary the wood types between models to best serve the purpose of each ski.

Age range

As young skiers gain some abilities above the beginner level, more advanced equipment must be used to practice additional talents that are possible with this sport. These wonderful skis allow such advancement for young girls.

Ease of use

Because this product is lightweight, it permits easy handling on the snow, helps with turns, and are not as tiring for the user as other similar models on the market currently.

Materials

With a flared tail profile and construction of composite core substances, this ski set is ideal for the beginner or serious skier. They are long-lasting because of the excellent build and materials.

Price range

Priced below the average cost of such items, the Temptation Pro Junior skis are valued for their ability to handle various terrains, flex qualities, and simplicity in control with the rocker profile.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Durability

Made only of the best materials and construction, these ski models can stand up to the harsh outdoor elements and the wear and tear of the user. Kids can be very rough with sports equipment, but these brands can take the punishment. They will last for many years of enjoyable skiing, as your child learns the many talents of skiing on different ground surfaces. Whether they ski at a park, on snowy hills, or on rugged mountainsides, they will be fine with these durable models from these reputable manufacturers.

Age Range

The only thing beginner and novice skiers need is the skis and a pair of bindings to hold their feet on. Intermediate and experienced skiers will require poles to guide them and help them keep their balance while rushing downhill. These are all easy to put on and take off. Using them is up to the individual child with them on, as their abilities get stronger. Skiing is just like any other sport or activity in that it takes much practice to do it well. Everyone must learn the necessary skills to stay on the skis, be able to walk in them, and then eventually go down hills, slopes, and mountains with great speed.

Ease of Use

Whether they come with the bindings and poles or not, all of these ski products that we list are made for children and are easy to use. Older kids will be able to put these on well by themselves after they learn how to use them with or without the poles. These are all simple to remove and put on with the easy bindings. The different skis listed have varying skill levels for the features and capabilities of the skis. If properly matched to the correct ski level, your child should have no problem being able to use any of these items for fun and excitement on the slopes and trails.

Materials

The best name brands are included on our list of best skis for kids because they are the best that are currently being offered. These popular models are from Volkl, Armada, K2, Salomon, Blizzard, and Rossignol. With the top models, your child will perform their best on the slopes and at the ski park. The excellent features that most of these skis have are a good solid construction of high-quality materials, either a stiff or soft flex, proper width for various talents, and weights designed for the different users for which they were intended.

Price Range

There is great variation in the prices of these children’s skis. The most expensive set of skis is the Blizzard product and the least in cost is the 2017 Volkl Wall. These items vary in materials used for construction, style, design, sizes, and colors offered and included pieces in the sets. The greatest variation of price is the materials used to create these items because some are made of plastic, while others have a longer-lasting and more durable build. Also, some of these skis come with poles and others do not. When comparing prices across the board, you must consider these factors and aspects to come to a fair assessment of each product.

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Parents, Did you Know?

Learning to balance with skis is best learned without poles to not depend on them for support. Teach your child to step, stand, and walk with skis on without using the poles at first. Poles are just supposed to be a guide for balancing and not support to hold you up.

Parents, Did you Know?

Make sure that the skill level the skis are intended for is the skill level of the child. If this is improperly matched, it could cause discouragement in a child that lacks the ability to use advanced skis or frustrate kids that have more advanced talents that the skis will allow.

Other Factors to Consider

Value

Only the best products of any category ever make our informative buying guides. We want only the best items for ourselves and we know you do too. By showcasing these best-rated and most-reviewed skis for kids, we save you time in looking through products that did not satisfy consumers and might not be the best items for you and your family. In our concise summary sections, we put all of the gathered information of each item from manufacturer product descriptions and customer feedback. In this way, you can determine quickly if the product is just right for you. We hope that you enjoy perusing through our beneficial list of the best skis for kids.

Physical Development

Being an outdoor sport, skiing affords the child a chance to get up and moving in an activity that will develop them physically. Kids today are too quick to sit in front of the TV or video games for hours and hours of inactivity. They need an excuse to get outside and have some physical exertion and fun. Skiing is perfect for that because they will learn how to balance and promote their coordination at the same time. It will get their heart and blood going for a healthy workout in the fresh air. Whether the child knows how to ski or is just learning the basics, they will gain much from the physical abilities they will master in trying out any one of these featured sets of skis in the winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: At what age can kids begin skiing?

a:

If your child has the balance and coordination to stand on skis and move them with their feet, then kids as young as three-years-old can begin building their skiing talents. Usually, children younger than five in age are too young to do well on skis because of the coordination issue. Kids this young adapt better and have a smaller stature, so this sport can come quite natural at these younger ages. If your child wants to try and feels like they can do it, by all means, let them have a chance to get out there and have plenty of fun.

q: Should kids learn how to ski or snowboard first?

a:

This greatly depends on the interest of the child and usually what their peers are doing. These sports require different skill levels and different ways of balancing and coordinating the body and feet. Skiing requires better coordination of both feet facing forward in a walking position, while snowboarding entails having both feet together in a sideways stance. Snowboarding only involves the manipulation of one board for both feet, while skiing depends on controlling two separate pieces of equipment, one for each foot. Balance is easier with skis because it is similar to walking. Trying to balance sideways on one board going down a hill or slope is very different. A snowboard is easier to get off of than skis that must be taken off of the feet. After falling down with either of these modes, it is easier to get up from the ground with a snowboard than with skis. All in all, it really depends on which one your child is more comfortable with because it will be them that must learn the necessary talents. One is not better than the other because everyone is different.

q: Are these skis for boys or girls or both?

a:

A few of the products listed are just for one gender or the other, but in general, most of them can be used equally as well for both sexes. The only real difference would be in the girls’ selections. These would be lighter in weight and easier to handle for a girl’s smaller and lighter frame. The colors and graphics on the girls’ skis may be in more feminine designs to better suit a girl’s tastes too. The bulkier heavier skis mostly used by boys may be too much for girls to manipulate and lift well, so manufacturers offer the lighter versions, so girls can enjoy the snow too.

q: How long does it take to learn how to ski for kids?

a:

This depends on several factors. The age and capabilities of the child are the first factors. Whether or not they have tried skiing before and if they have had any practice with other sports that would aid them in the motions of skiing is another. With proper training and lessons from an instructor, kids will adapt better and gain their skiing abilities quicker than a child without lessons or guidance. The determination and desire to do well in the sport is another factor to consider in trying to determine how long it will take a child to learn how to ski. Of course, all of these different aspects will be varied for each and every child, so this cannot be answered with a general answer for all kids. However, as with anything else, the more they practice, the better they will be and faster than someone who does not practice as often.

q: Are poles necessary for kids to learn the skills of skiing or is it best to not use them at first?

a:

This is a widely debated topic among skiing instructors and parents because some say it is helpful, while others claim that poles harm the child’s ability to balance on their own. If the child has poles, they may depend too much on them to balance themselves on the skis and not try to use their legs and individual balance to move with the skis. They can become crutches that the child cannot do without, which is not what skiing with poles is about. Poles should be used for guidance only and not a means of balancing yourself. If you think that your child will use the poles in this incorrect manner, then do not start them off with poles. Get them to develop their balance and coordination on the skis without the poles first, then introduce the poles when this has been conquered.

q: What else must be purchased to start skiing other than the skis themselves?

a:

Just the skis themselves with the straps to hold the feet to them is good enough to begin the sport. Poles can be added later once the child is used to the skis. Plenty of people do not recommend using the poles for beginners because of the reasons stated in the above answer.

Sources

  1. Unknown Author, AT WHAT AGE CAN A CHILD LEARN TO SKI OR SNOWBOARD?, Online Article
  2. Ellen Jonas, Snowboarding or Skiing for Children? Here's How to Decide, Online Article
  3. Unknown Author, Volkl Wall Junior Skis 2017, Review
  4. Unknown Author, Volkl Mantra Jr Skis - Boys' 2018, Review