Short skis, like skiblades and skiboards, are shaking up powder skiing. These compact options (44-99 cm) are lightweight, portable, and easier to control than longer skis or snowboards. They’re perfect for quick turns, tight spaces, and deep snow without the bulk. Snowfeet’s lineup stands out with models like the Powder 99 cm for deep snow, Skiblades 99 cm for all-mountain use, and Skiblades 65 cm for freestyle fun. Prices range from $550 to $675, and they’re beginner-friendly, making skiing more accessible and fun.
Quick Highlights:
- Snowfeet Powder 99 cm ($675): Wide for deep snow, easy to carry.
- Snowfeet Skiblades 99 cm ($590): Versatile for all conditions.
- Snowfeet Skiblades 65 cm ($550): Compact and playful for tricks.
- Easier learning curve and more portable than traditional skis or snowboards.
Want an alternative to bulky gear? These short skis might be your best bet.
Short Skis vs Traditional Gear Comparison: Maneuverability, Portability, Learning Curve & Price
1. Snowfeet* Powder 99 cm
The Snowfeet* Powder 99 cm is designed specifically for deep snow, blending a wide surface area with impressive agility. At just 39 inches (99 cm) long, these skiboards offer a fresh and fun alternative to the traditional, bulkier 170+ cm skis often seen at ski resorts. They pack plenty of punch for powder lovers while keeping things playful and light.
Powder Float
With its wider profile, the Powder 99 cm gives you the surface area you need to glide effortlessly over fresh snow. Unlike the longer, heavier powder skis, this compact design provides the same level of float without the extra bulk. The result? A stable, smooth ride that still feels lively and responsive. It’s an ideal balance for anyone looking to enjoy deep snow with ease.
Maneuverability
The shorter length of the Powder 99 cm makes it a dream for quick turns, sharp stops, and weaving through tight tree runs or hidden powder stashes. Its lightweight and responsive build means you can adapt quickly to changing snow conditions, keeping you in control and having fun.
As Andrew B. shared in his review, these skiblades are "so much fun and easy to control. Never going back to regular skis".
Portability
Here’s where the Powder 99 cm really shines: it’s small enough to fit in a backpack. Forget about roof racks or oversized ski bags - these skiboards are light enough for hiking and compact enough to stash in your car's trunk. At just 39 inches, they’re a far cry from the 67+ inch traditional powder skis, making them a convenient choice for on-the-go adventurers.
Price
Priced at $675, the Snowfeet* Powder 99 cm offers a premium experience for powder enthusiasts. With a perfect 5.0 user rating, it’s clear that skiers love its mix of deep-snow performance and everyday practicality. If you’re looking for a portable yet high-performing option for powder days, this might just be your new favorite gear.
2. Snowfeet* Skiblades 99 cm
The Snowfeet* Skiblades 99 cm are designed to handle a variety of mountain conditions, from smooth groomers to deep powder. At 39 inches (99 cm) long, they share the same dimensions as the Powder model but bring their own flair to the slopes. Let’s break down what makes them stand out in terms of float, agility, portability, and ease of use.
Powder Float
When it comes to powder, these skiblades strike a balance between stability and playfulness. Traditional powder skis, often over 67 inches (170 cm) long and featuring wide waists (110–120 mm), are built for float. While the 99 cm skiblades may not match the high-speed stability of those bigger skis, their quick responsiveness makes them perfect for weaving through trees and tackling variable snow conditions.
Maneuverability
Thanks to their compact 39-inch length, these skiblades are all about agility. They make tight turns and quick adjustments feel effortless, unlike the more cumbersome handling of traditional long skis. Whether you're navigating narrow trails or adapting to changing terrain, these skiblades keep your ride smooth and controlled.
Portability
One of their biggest perks? They’re incredibly lightweight and compact. Toss them into a standard backpack, and you’re ready for backcountry adventures or last-minute ski trips. No need for a bulky ski bag here.
Learning Curve
These skiblades are a dream for beginners and intermediate skiers. Their shorter length and intuitive handling make them much easier to control than traditional long skis, helping newer riders build confidence in powder. Even seasoned skiers will enjoy the smooth, responsive ride they deliver.
Price
Priced at $590, the Snowfeet* Skiblades 99 cm offer great value for an all-mountain short ski that handles powder like a pro. With a perfect 5.0 out of 5 rating, users consistently rave about their versatility and how much fun they bring to the slopes.
3. Snowfeet* Skiblades 65 cm
The Snowfeet* Skiblades 65 cm are all about agility and playful control, making them a great choice for freestyle skiing, light powder, and mixed conditions. At just 26 inches (65 cm) long, these skiblades combine the fun of snow skating with the versatility of skiing, especially in lighter powder and varied terrain.
Powder Float
While these skiblades won't give you the same buoyancy in deep powder as the 99 cm model, they shine in lighter powder and mixed conditions. If you're planning to tackle serious deep powder, Snowfeet suggests going for their longer models like the 99 cm, 120 cm, or the 99 Powder. But for carving, landing tricks in the park, or enjoying powder in mixed terrain, the 65 cm version is a solid performer.
Maneuverability
Thanks to their short and compact design, these skiblades are incredibly responsive, making quick turns a breeze - perfect for weaving through trees or navigating tight spaces. Unlike traditional long skis, they offer a level of agility that makes tricky terrain feel much more manageable.
Portability
One standout feature of the 65 cm model is its portability. At just 26 inches, these skiblades are lightweight and compact enough to fit in a standard backpack. Uncrate even highlighted them as "far more portable and affordable than traditional skis or snowboards". This makes them an excellent choice for short trips or backcountry adventures where packing light is key.
Learning Curve
Their compact size and easy handling make these skiblades a great option for beginners or anyone looking for a smoother learning experience. Turning and stopping feel intuitive, and their design is ideal for freestyle movements. The Snowfeet team explains:
"These are perfect for those who want a mix of snow skating and skiing. This length is great for freestyle skiing, as it allows for quick movements and agility. They're also fantastic for ski instructors, kids, or anyone just starting to learn".
Price
Priced at $550, the Snowfeet* Skiblades 65 cm offer a great mix of performance and versatility. They’re designed for agile, freestyle skiing and handle mixed conditions with ease, all while maintaining the high-quality craftsmanship Snowfeet is known for.
4. Traditional Long Skis (170+ cm)
Long skis have been a staple for powder skiing for years, but they come with their own set of challenges. While they’re built for deep snow with wide dimensions and rocker profiles, their size and weight can make them less practical and harder to handle compared to the compact Snowfeet* skiblades.
Powder Float
When it comes to floating on powder, traditional long skis shine. Their wide tips and tails help keep them from sinking, allowing skiers to glide smoothly through deep, ungroomed snow. But this design comes at a cost. On groomed trails or icy conditions, they lose some of their versatility. As SKI Magazine puts it, "Big boards will enhance any real powder day, but they may feel cumbersome in anything less than five inches of fresh snow". By contrast, Snowfeet* skiblades are built to handle a mix of snow conditions with ease.
Maneuverability
The size and weight of traditional skis can make them a handful, especially for less experienced skiers. They demand more control and effort to navigate, which can be intimidating. On the other hand, Snowfeet* skiblades offer a completely different experience. As the Snowfeet team explains, "Short skis provide more fun and freedom of movement, they are playful, responsive, lightweight on your feet, easier to stop, and for many skiers easier to ride as opposed to cumbersome long skis". For those looking for a more playful and responsive ride, shorter skis are a clear winner.
Portability
Traditional long skis, often over 67 inches in length and weighing between 7.9 and 9.9 lbs per pair, can be a hassle to transport. They usually require roof racks, ski bags, and extra planning for travel. Snowfeet* skiblades, with their compact and lightweight design, eliminate these headaches. Their portability is a huge plus for skiers who value convenience.
Learning Curve
The bulk and length of traditional long skis can make learning more challenging. Techniques like turning and stopping take more effort to master, which can be discouraging for beginners. Snowfeet* skiblades, however, offer a much gentler introduction to skiing. According to the Snowfeet team, "Mini skis are an excellent option for beginners because they're easier to control than long skis. Their shorter length makes turning and stopping a lot simpler, which allows new skiers to focus on mastering the basic techniques without feeling overwhelmed". This makes Snowfeet* skiblades an appealing choice for anyone starting out in powder skiing.
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5. Freeride Snowboards (160+ cm)
Freeride snowboards are built with extra length and width to help riders glide over deep powder. But while they excel in powder, they come with certain trade-offs, especially when compared to the compact and versatile Snowfeet* skiblades. Let’s break it down.
Powder Float
Freeride snowboards are designed with a larger surface area, making them great for floating on powder. However, the sideways stance of a snowboard can limit forward visibility, which some riders find less intuitive. Snowfeet* skiblades, on the other hand, offer a forward-facing stance that feels more natural to many, giving you a familiar view of the terrain. While direct performance comparisons between these two styles are limited, the forward stance of Snowfeet* skiblades may provide added comfort in deep snow.
Maneuverability
Turning quickly or navigating tight spaces can be tricky with the sideways stance of a snowboard, especially in variable terrain. Snowfeet* skiblades, thanks to their compact size and forward-stride design, shine in this area. They’re incredibly agile, making them a playful and responsive option for quick turns or confined areas, even in powder.
Portability
Freeride snowboards can be bulky and difficult to transport. In contrast, Snowfeet* skiblades are compact enough to fit easily in a car trunk, making them much easier to carry around.
Learning Curve
Snowboarding often comes with a steep learning curve, requiring time to master balance and edge control. Snowfeet* skiblades, with their shorter length and forward-facing stance, are much easier for beginners to pick up. This design helps new riders feel more confident, especially in powder conditions.
Price
A full freeride snowboard setup - including the board, bindings, and boots - can be a pricey investment. Snowfeet* skiblades, however, are a more budget-friendly option, with entry-level models starting at around $190. This makes them an appealing choice for those looking to dive into powder skiing without breaking the bank on gear.
Pros and Cons Comparison
Here’s a quick breakdown of how Snowfeet* products stack up against traditional long skis and freeride snowboards. The table below highlights their strengths and differences:
| Product | Maneuverability | Portability | Learning Curve | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snowfeet* Powder 99 cm | Super agile, perfect for quick turns on varied terrain | Compact enough to fit in a car trunk | Beginner-friendly with an easy-to-learn stance | Starting at $675 |
| Snowfeet* Skiblades 99 cm | Highly responsive on all types of slopes | Lightweight and simple to transport | Great for beginners to jump right in | Starting at $590 |
| Snowfeet* Skiblades 65 cm | Extremely nimble, ideal for tight maneuvers | Ultra-portable and requires minimal storage space | Effortless to control, even for novices | Starting at $550 |
| Traditional Long Skis (170+ cm) | Less maneuverable and harder to handle | Bulky - often needs roof racks or larger vehicles | Requires lessons due to a steep learning curve | $800+ (including skis, bindings, and boots) |
| Freeride Snowboards (160+ cm) | Limited agility because of the sideways stance | Challenging to transport due to size | Harder for beginners, as balance can be tricky | $900+ (for a full setup) |
Snowfeet* products shine when it comes to portability, ease of use, and price. They’re a fun and accessible alternative to traditional gear, especially for those who want a hassle-free way to enjoy deep powder. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, Snowfeet* skiblades offer a more playful and convenient experience compared to the bulkier, harder-to-master options like long skis or snowboards.
Conclusion
Snowfeet* skiblades and skiboards bring a fresh twist to powder skiing, combining portability, control, and sheer fun in a way that traditional long skis and freeride snowboards just can't match.
For beginners, the Snowfeet* Skiblades 65 cm (priced at $550) is a fantastic option - lightweight and easy to handle. Intermediate skiers will love the versatility of the Snowfeet* Skiblades 99 cm ($590), which perform well across mixed conditions. And for the seasoned pros, the Snowfeet* Powder 99 cm ($675) delivers excellent flotation, perfect for deep powder days.
This lineup proves that compact, modern gear doesn't just compete with traditional setups - it outshines them in performance and convenience. With perfect 5.0 ratings for the 99 cm and 65 cm models and an overall brand score of 4.9 out of 5, Snowfeet* clearly has a winning formula.
By tackling the challenges of deep powder head-on, Snowfeet* gives skiers the freedom to explore more diverse terrain - without being weighed down by bulky equipment. These skiblades are lighter, quicker, and more playful, making it easier to carve through trees, pull off freestyle tricks, and glide effortlessly through powder. They make skiing not just accessible but downright exciting.
Snowfeet* skiblades are changing the game, offering a sleek, thrilling way to experience powder skiing like never before. Every descent feels like a new adventure.
FAQs
How do Snowfeet skiblades compare to traditional skis in deep powder?
Snowfeet skiblades shine in deep powder because of their short length, wider shape, and rocker design. These features make them super nimble and easy to handle. Plus, their lightweight build helps you stay on top of the snow, letting you glide smoothly through soft powder.
Unlike traditional skis, Snowfeet skiblades offer a fun and portable alternative without giving up on performance. They’re a great choice for skiers who want an energetic, playful ride in powder while enjoying the perks of compact, easy-to-carry gear.
Are Snowfeet skiblades a good choice for beginners?
Snowfeet skiblades are a solid pick for beginners. Thanks to their small size and lightweight build, they’re much easier to handle, which makes learning less intimidating. Plus, they’re designed to work with regular winter boots - no need to splurge on expensive, specialized equipment. This mix of convenience, simplicity, and fun makes Snowfeet skiblades a fantastic way to dip your toes into skiing without feeling overwhelmed.
Why are Snowfeet skiblades easier to carry than traditional ski gear?
Snowfeet skiblades are all about convenience. Unlike full-length skis that can feel like you're lugging around a small tree, these skiblades are compact and lightweight enough to slip right into a regular backpack. That means no bulky roof racks, no oversized carriers - just grab your bag, and you're good to go.
Their portability makes them an ideal choice for anyone who loves hitting the slopes without the hassle. Plus, since they're so small and light, you can skip all the extra gear like ski bags or special carriers. With Snowfeet skiblades, skiing becomes a whole lot simpler - no heavy lifting required!
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