Switching from snowboarding to skiing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’re a snowboarder looking to try skiing, short skis are a fantastic option. Unlike long, bulky skis, short skis like Snowfeet* products are compact, easy to use, and compatible with your snowboard boots. They’re designed to make the transition smoother, with a learning curve of just minutes for most people.
Here’s the breakdown of the five best short skis for snowboarders:
- 99 cm Skiblades ($675–$690): Great for carving, light powder, and versatility. Works with snowboard boots (sizes 6–14.5 US).
- 44 cm Skiskates ($480): Ultra-portable and fun for quick turns and tricks. Fits in a backpack and works with snowboard boots.
- 65 cm Skiblades ($550–$650): A balance of stability and agility. Perfect for slopes and terrain parks.
- 50 cm PRO Skis ($250): Lightweight and easy to handle. Works well for slopes and light powder.
- 38 cm Mini Ski Skates ($250): The shortest option for tight spaces and quick fun. Super portable and great for snowboarders.
Why choose short skis?
- They’re lighter, easier to carry, and don’t require special ski boots.
- Quick to learn, with most users mastering the basics in 5–15 minutes.
- Perfect for snowboarders, thanks to their edge control and compact design.
If you’re ready to hit the slopes in a new way, short skis offer a fun, hassle-free experience while keeping that snowboarder vibe alive. :)
Comparison of 5 Best Short Skis for Snowboarders: Length, Price, and Features
1. Snowfeet* Skiblades 99 cm
Length and Portability
At just 39 inches (99 cm) long, the Snowfeet* Skiblades are a breath of fresh air for snowboarders tired of lugging around bulky gear. Traditional skis, often stretching from 59 to 79 inches or more, can be a hassle to store and transport. These skiblades, however, are compact enough to fit snugly in a backpack, making them a fantastic choice for spur-of-the-moment backcountry trips. Plus, their portability pairs perfectly with the Snowfeet* boot compatibility system.
Boot Compatibility
One of the standout features of the Snowfeet* Skiblades is their ability to work seamlessly with your existing snowboard boots. Equipped with specialized snowboard bindings, they accommodate boot sizes ranging from 6 to 14.5 US (38–49 EU). This design ensures a comfortable fit and eliminates the need for extra gear. Sarah Finch, a lifelong skier, shared her enthusiasm:
"I always joked that if I could just do snowboard boots with skis I'd be set. Then I found SnowFeet!!! I have done more skiing this year than any other year in my adult life!"
This compatibility not only keeps things simple and familiar but also saves you money by letting you use the boots you already own.
Maneuverability and Learning Curve
If you’ve got the hang of edge control on a snowboard, you’ll love how these skiblades handle. Their 99 cm length, parabolic shape, and narrow waist - combined with asymmetrical tips - make carving, riding backward, spinning, and jumping feel natural. Snowfeet* even claims you can grasp the basics in just five minutes. With a 5.0/5 star rating from 34 verified reviews, many users seem to agree. One happy reviewer noted that they’re "easy on the knees", which is a big plus for anyone worried about joint strain.
Versatility and Terrain Suitability
The 99 cm model strikes a sweet spot for versatility. It’s long enough to carve smoothly and handle light powder (up to about 4 inches), yet short enough for executing tricks, spins, and navigating tight trails. Built with a wood core, metal edges, and a graphite base, these skiblades deliver speed and control. Whether you’re hitting groomed runs, moguls, or snow parks, they’re up for the challenge. And if you’re wondering about the price, they range from $675 to $690, offering a great blend of snowboarding style and skiing performance in one compact package.
2. Snowfeet* Skiskates 44 cm
Length and Portability
At just 17 inches (44 cm) long, the Snowfeet* Skiskates claim the title of the world's shortest skis. Unlike traditional skis, which can easily surpass 59 inches, these skiskates are compact enough to fit into any standard backpack. This means you can hike, explore backcountry trails, or even hop on public transit without lugging around oversized gear. Their ultra-compact design makes them a game-changer for anyone who values convenience and mobility on the slopes.
Boot Compatibility
The Snowfeet* Skiskates are designed to work seamlessly with both snowboard boots (sizes 6–14.5 US) and ski boots (sizes 4.5–14.5 US). This flexibility means you can stick with your comfy snowboard boots instead of dealing with the stiffness of traditional ski boots. Plus, the tool-free bindings make switching between boot types a breeze. As Zbyněk, the founder of Snowfeet*, puts it:
"In my opinion, Skiskates is the best product for slopes we developed so far. I love how easy they are to ski and skate and how many different kinds of tricks I can perform without much effort."
Thanks to this adaptable design, these skiskates aren't just easy to wear - they're also incredibly fun to use.
Maneuverability and Learning Curve
These skiskates shine when it comes to control, especially for snowboarders looking to try skiing. The short 44 cm length provides a balance-driven feel that snowboarders will find familiar. With a wood core and steel edges, they deliver smooth control for carving S-turns or pulling off sharp hockey stops. Chan Saelee, a verified user making the leap from snowboarding, shares:
"Coming from a snowboarding background, there was definitely a learning curve... but once I got the hang of it, I was able to carve 'S' turns as a first-timer."
Most users pick up the basics in just five minutes, as reflected in its glowing 5.0/5 rating from 109 reviews. These skiskates make transitioning from snowboarding to skiing feel almost effortless.
Versatility and Terrain Suitability
Whether you're tackling groomed slopes, cruising through snow parks, or hiking snowy trails, the Snowfeet* Skiskates deliver agility and performance. They're best suited for packed snow but can handle light powder up to about 4 inches deep. Thanks to their metal edges, they’re even recognized as legitimate "short skis" at most US ski resorts. At $480 (regularly $490), they pack impressive performance into a compact, mountain-ready design.
Snowboarder tries Snowfeet* | Which Snowfeet* Short Ski is the Best? | Snowblades 44, 65, 99 Review
3. Snowfeet* Skiblades 65 cm
The 65 cm Snowfeet* Skiblades strike a balance between agility and stability, making them a solid middle-ground option for skiers who want a bit of both.
Length and Portability
Measuring just 26 inches (65 cm), these skiblades are incredibly easy to carry around. Unlike traditional skis that can be over 60 inches long, these compact blades are designed to fit in a backpack - no need for bulky roof racks. Plus, they’re lightweight too. A pair with snowboard bindings tips the scales at just 5.89 lbs, making them easy to handle on and off the slopes.
Boot Compatibility
One of the standout features of these skiblades is their compatibility with snowboard boots (sizes 6–14.5 US or 38–49 EU). This means you can ditch the stiff, clunky ski boots and still maintain great control on the mountain. When paired with snowboard bindings, the total weight comes to about 2,638 g per pair.
Maneuverability and Learning Curve
With a parabolic shape and a tight 4-meter turning radius, these skiblades make carving feel almost effortless. Their compact size eliminates the unwieldy feel of traditional skis, which is especially helpful for snowboarders making the switch. Michael Hirsch, a satisfied customer, shared:
"After a few descents, I mastered them and their short length helped me better control my daughters who were learning to ski."
And with a 5.0/5 rating from 66 reviews, it’s clear that most riders get the hang of these skiblades quickly.
Versatility and Terrain Suitability
Built with a durable wood core and metal edges, these skiblades are made to handle a variety of conditions. They excel on icy, groomed slopes but are just as comfortable in snow parks, on moguls, or even narrow hiking trails. They can even manage light powder up to 4 inches deep. Priced between $550 and $650, the 65 cm model offers a great middle option between the shorter 44 cm skiskates and the longer 99 cm skiblades.
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4. Snowfeet* PRO 50 cm
The Snowfeet* PRO 50 cm strikes a perfect balance for those looking for a smooth transition between skiing and skating. With a length of about 20 inches, it offers a natural feel for snowboarders while delivering more stability than the ultra-short models. As the tagline says, it’s "long enough to ski, short enough to skate".
Length and Portability
Measuring 50 cm (20 inches) and starting at $250, the PRO model is designed to be portable and practical. It easily fits into standard backpacks and car trunks, making it a great option for on-the-go adventures. While it’s longer than the 38 cm Mini version, it remains lightweight and compact enough for hikes. Featuring a fiberglass-reinforced core, it’s built to last and offers excellent value within the Snowfeet lineup.
Boot Compatibility
One of the highlights of the PRO 50 cm is its compatibility with most snowboard boots, accommodating sizes 6–13 US (or 38–47 EU). This means you can use the boots you already own, making the transition more comfortable and convenient. Snowboard boots are soft and flexible, allowing for natural ankle movement, which adds to the overall comfort compared to traditional ski setups.
Maneuverability and Learning Curve
The PRO model is designed with a narrowed base and a slightly raised platform, making it easier to initiate turns. This thoughtful design helps snowboarders adapt quickly, offering a more intuitive experience compared to longer skis. Chan Saelee, a seasoned snowboarder, shared his experience:
"I wore them with my men's size 9.5 US snowboarding boots, and they fit comfortably and securely. Coming from a snowboarding background... I was able to carve 'S' turns as a first-timer."
With a 4.9/5 star rating from over 2,243 reviews, many users report mastering the basics in just about five minutes. The added length compared to shorter models also improves balance and weight distribution, making it easier to find your footing.
Versatility and Terrain Suitability
The PRO 50 cm comes equipped with metal ski edges and a fiberglass-reinforced core, making it ideal for groomed slopes, snow parks, and even light powder up to 4 inches (10 cm) deep. Its base design, inspired by traditional ski technology, ensures reliable control for stopping and turning. Sophia Kane shared her thoughts on its versatility:
"My favorite part about these is that hills are not an issue anymore. I hate getting stuck on a hill in skis because they're so long and bulky. Since these are shorter, you can just skate right up."
Whether you're navigating slopes or tackling tricky terrain, the PRO 50 cm offers a fun and adaptable way to enjoy the snow.
5. Snowfeet* Mini Ski Skates 38 cm
The Snowfeet* Mini Ski Skates 38 cm are a game-changer for anyone looking for a lightweight, portable way to hit the slopes. Measuring just 15 inches (38 cm), these are officially the shortest skis in the world. They’re small enough to fit in a standard backpack, making them perfect for quick snow adventures without the hassle of lugging around traditional skis or bulky gear bags. Starting at $250, they’re ideal for spontaneous trips, hiking trails, or even snowy city streets.
Boot Compatibility
One of the standout features of these mini ski skates is how easy they are to pair with your existing gear. They’re designed to work seamlessly with snowboard boots ranging from size 6 to 13 US (38–47 EU). For the best experience, you can choose the Standard or Pro X binding models, which come with extra straps specifically designed for snowboard boots. This ensures a snug, secure fit and makes the transition from snowboarding to mini ski skates effortless. Pro skater Logan summed it up perfectly:
"Using a snowboard boot gives me excellent ankle support and a relaxed feel on and off the lift!"
Maneuverability and Learning Curve
Thanks to their super-short length, these skates make for a smooth and natural skating motion, especially for those who’ve tried inline or ice skating before. Many users say they got the hang of it in just five minutes! With an impressive 4.9/5 star rating from over 2,249 reviews, it’s clear these skates are a hit. Chan Saelee, a seasoned snowboarder, shared his thoughts:
"I wore them with my men's size 9.5 US snowboarding boots, and they fit comfortably and securely. Getting on and off the chairlift with SnowFeet was simple and stress-free - way easier than snowboarding or skiing."
While turning and maneuvering come naturally, practicing the hockey stop might take a little extra effort - but hey, that’s part of the fun.
Versatility and Terrain Suitability
These skates aren’t just easy to use - they’re also built to perform. With a fiberglass-reinforced core and metal edges, the 38 cm model handles groomed slopes, snow parks, and tight trails like a pro. That said, they’re not ideal for deep powder (anything over 4 inches or 10 cm) due to their compact size. A built-in heel brake adds an extra layer of safety, making them a great choice for beginners who are transitioning from snowboarding.
Pros and Cons
Switching from snowboarding to Snowfeet* products or traditional skis involves weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Snowfeet* products shine in areas where traditional skis often fall short - like portability, comfort, and ease of use. Thousands of users have already vouched for their performance on the slopes, proving their value.
Here’s a closer look at the trade-offs: One major perk of Snowfeet* is that most models (44 cm, 65 cm, and 99 cm) work with your existing snowboard boots. This makes the learning curve incredibly short - think minutes instead of hours or even a full day, which is often the case with traditional skis.
Portability is another big win for Snowfeet*. For example, the 38 cm Mini Ski Skates are super compact and weigh less than 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg). Compare that to traditional skis, which typically weigh between 6.6 and 11 lbs (3–5 kg) and measure 150–200+ cm (59–79+ inches). Those longer skis often require roof racks or oversized gear bags, making them far less convenient to carry around. With Snowfeet*, their shorter design also makes navigating tight spaces a breeze, while traditional skis can feel, well, a bit clunky.
That said, traditional skis do have their strengths. They’re better suited for deep powder (over 4 inches/10 cm) and excel at high-speed stability. While the 99 cm Skiblades from Snowfeet* handle powder decently, traditional skis are still the better choice for serious backcountry adventures. Another difference lies in bindings: traditional ski bindings often include release mechanisms for added safety during falls, whereas Snowfeet* use snowboard-style bindings. While these provide excellent ankle support and comfort, they don’t release in the same way.
Snowfeet* products truly stand out for their convenience and comfort. They’re less physically demanding and perfect for groomed runs, terrain parks, and moderate conditions. With prices ranging from $250 to $675, they’re a budget-friendly alternative to traditional setups, which can easily top $1,000. The trade-off? You get better control, portability, and comfort but may sacrifice some performance in deep powder and high-speed scenarios.
Conclusion
Switching from snowboarding to skiing doesn’t have to mean dealing with bulky ski boots or hauling around long skis. Snowfeet* products tackle the common challenges snowboarders face with traditional skis while keeping the adrenaline-packed fun intact.
Thanks to their sharp edge control and natural, forward-facing motion, most snowboarders can start carving turns on Snowfeet* gear in as little as 15 minutes. Snowboarding instructor Daniel Gerdy sums it up perfectly:
"Most of them [snowboarders] went from never ever to making turns down the hill in about 15 minutes. Not perfect turns, but they could get around with little effort and minimal instruction".
For a quick learning curve and endless fun, check out the 44 cm Skiskates ($480) or the 50 cm PRO ($275). If you’re into terrain parks, the 65 cm Skiblades ($635) offer incredible stability and maneuverability. Prefer carving all over the mountain? The 99 cm Skiblades ($675) are a great pick, combining portability with smooth carving performance.
Here’s the best part: you can stick with your comfy snowboard boots and skip the steep learning curve of traditional skiing. As Charles Carlson, a former teacher and racer, points out, snowboarders often struggle with awkward traverses and uphill hikes. Snowfeet* eliminates those hassles, letting you glide effortlessly. It’s a seamless way to combine the agility of snowboarding with the versatility of skiing.
FAQs
Can I use my snowboard boots with Snowfeet short skis?
Yes, you can! Snowfeet short skis are made to work perfectly with your snowboard boots, so you don’t have to buy special ski boots. This clever design lets you hit the slopes without the hassle of changing footwear - ideal if you’re a snowboarder looking to try skiing. Even better, they’re also compatible with regular winter shoes, giving you more options for your outdoor fun.
How do short skis perform compared to traditional skis in powder snow?
Short skis, like the Snowfeet 99 cm Skiblades, are all about convenience and fun. They're super lightweight, easy to control, and compact enough to fit in a backpack. This makes them a great option for most powder conditions, especially if you're after a playful, nimble ride. Plus, snowboarders making the switch to skiing often find them less intimidating to handle.
On the flip side, traditional long powder skis are the go-to for those epic deep-snow days. They offer better flotation but tend to be bulkier, heavier, and often come with a steeper price tag. For the average powder day, though, short skis strike a great balance - perfect for anyone who values portability and simplicity.
How easy is it for snowboarders to switch to short skis?
Switching from snowboarding to short skis, like Snowfeet's Skiblades or Skiskates, is a pretty smooth transition. These compact skis, which range from about 15 to 47 inches in length, feel more like skating than traditional skiing. For snowboarders, their existing skills in balance and edge control carry over nicely, making it possible to get the hang of short skis after just a few practice runs - sometimes even within a single day.
One big perk of Snowfeet short skis is their lightweight and portable design. Plus, they work with regular winter boots, so there's no need to lug around clunky ski boots. This makes it easier for snowboarders to focus on nailing turns and edge control without being bogged down by heavy gear. The main adjustment is getting used to balancing on two skis instead of one board, but most snowboarders pick it up quickly, thanks to their solid core strength and coordination.
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