Why Traditional Skis Feel Hard for Most People (And What Works Better)

Traditional skis can be a pain - literally. They’re long, heavy, and tough to master. For most casual skiers, they’re more hassle than fun. Enter Snowfeet Skiskates and Skiblades: shorter, lighter, and way easier to use. These compact alternatives make skiing simpler, whether you’re a beginner or just tired of lugging around bulky gear.

Here’s why they’re better:

Easier to learn: Get the hang of them in minutes, not weeks.
Portable: Small enough to fit in a backpack - no roof racks needed.
Versatile: Works on slopes, trails, and even in your backyard.
More control: Perfect for quick turns and navigating tricky terrain.

With sizes ranging from 44 cm to 120 cm, Snowfeet products are designed to make skiing more fun and less frustrating. Over 50,000 riders and thousands of glowing reviews agree: ditch the long skis and try something that actually works for you.

Want to know more? Let’s break it down.

Are Short Skis Better for Beginners?

Why Traditional Skis Are Difficult for Most People

Traditional skis are often designed with racing performance in mind, which makes them less practical for recreational skiers. Their length and weight work against the nimble, easy movements most people want when hitting the slopes.

Poor Control and Hard to Turn

The extra length of traditional skis can feel clunky, especially when you need quick, precise turns. Whether you’re weaving through crowded slopes or navigating tight tree runs, their size makes it harder to stay agile. Zbynek, the Founder of Snowfeet, sums it up well:

"Traditional skis are the answer to all that bother him at skiing with long skis: clunkiness, heavy burdens on feet and strenuous movement".

This lack of maneuverability becomes even more noticeable in tricky terrain, like moguls, where smooth turns are essential. For beginners, these challenges make learning to ski feel like an uphill battle - literally.

Takes Too Long to Learn

Getting the hang of traditional skis takes time - and often, professional lessons. That steep learning curve can discourage casual skiers who just want to enjoy a day on the mountain. On top of that, the added weight of traditional skis tires you out faster, cutting into valuable practice time. Shorter alternatives, on the other hand, have been shown to help beginners improve significantly in just one day.

Heavy and Hard to Carry

Transporting traditional skis isn’t exactly convenient. You’ll likely need a roof rack or a spacious car just to get them to the mountain. And once you’re there, lugging them around is no picnic. As verified user Sophia Kane shares:

"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".

The weight doesn’t just make carrying them a hassle - it also wears down your legs throughout the day. And if you take a tumble? The added leverage from the length makes getting back up even tougher.

The Stability Myth: Long Skis Aren't Always Better

There’s a common belief that longer skis automatically mean better stability. Sure, they can feel rock-solid at high speeds, but let’s be honest - most recreational skiers don’t need that kind of performance. On the slopes, control matters way more, and that’s where long skis can let you down.

Stability vs. Control

While long skis do provide stability for fast, straight runs, they’re not exactly your best friend when it comes to quick, precise movements. Picture this: you’re cruising down a groomed trail, and everything feels smooth - until you need to make a sharp turn or dodge a fellow skier. Suddenly, that extra length becomes a hassle. Shorter skis, on the other hand, have a wider base, offering solid support and stability without sacrificing maneuverability. This design makes it easier to stay in control and enjoy a more agile experience on the slopes.

Problems on Rough or Crowded Slopes

Long skis can turn into a real headache when the terrain gets tricky. Bumpy, ungroomed runs? Not ideal for long skis. They’re harder to maneuver and can even cause issues like crossed tips during sharp turns, which is a nightmare for beginners. If your skis are over 6 feet long, the chances of the tips overlapping during turns go way up, increasing your risk of falling. Shorter skis solve this problem effortlessly, giving you the freedom to focus on your run instead of battling your equipment. That’s why Snowfeet’s shorter designs shine - they’re built to handle any slope with ease and confidence.

Snowfeet Skiskates (44 cm): Small and Easy to Learn

Snowfeet Skiskates

Snowfeet Skiskates are a compact, easy-to-use alternative to traditional skis. Measuring just 44 cm, they’re designed to tackle the common headaches of skiing without sacrificing performance. As the makers put it: "long enough to ski, short enough to skate".

Lightweight and Backpack-Friendly

Say goodbye to those bulky ski bags and roof racks. Snowfeet Skiskates are small enough to fit in a regular backpack, making them super easy to carry around. Whether you're driving, taking the bus, or hiking, these skiskates are a breeze to transport. Even better, they attach directly to your winter shoes or snowboard boots - no need for stiff, uncomfortable ski boots. This not only lightens your load but also makes your time on the slopes a lot more enjoyable.

Easy to Pick Up, Even for Beginners

Here’s where Snowfeet Skiskates really stand out: they’re incredibly easy to learn. While traditional skis can take weeks of practice, you can get the hang of these in as little as 5 minutes. If you’ve ever ice skated or rollerbladed, the skating motion will feel natural right away. Plus, their compact size makes it easier to recover from falls - no more struggling on a hill with heavy, awkward gear. And with over 50,000 riders giving them a perfect 5-star rating, it’s clear they’re a hit with both beginners and seasoned skiers.

Versatile Across Different Snow Conditions

Another big plus? These skiskates work on all kinds of snow. Unlike traditional skis that are mostly limited to groomed slopes, Snowfeet Skiskates perform well on ski runs, in snow parks, on hiking trails, and even in your backyard. The 44 cm model features a professional wood core that delivers solid performance and can handle light powder up to about 4 inches deep. Whether you’re carving turns on a slope or gliding across flat terrain, these skiskates are up for the challenge. Their versatility is something traditional skis just can’t match.

Snowfeet Skiblades (65–120 cm): Multiple Sizes for Different Needs

Snowfeet Skiblades

Looking for something longer than the 44 cm Skiskates but not as bulky as traditional skis? Snowfeet Skiblades might be your answer. These come in three sizes - 65 cm, 99 cm, and 120 cm - each tailored for specific conditions and skill levels. They keep the ease and versatility of the Skiskates while offering more length to suit different riding styles. Let’s dive into what each size brings to the table.

65 cm Skiblades: Quick Turns and Carving

If you love sharp turns and carving, the 65 cm Skiblades are your go-to. These are perfect for groomed runs, snow parks, or tight spaces where longer skis feel clunky. Their short length makes them incredibly responsive, letting you pivot on a dime - ideal for weaving through crowded slopes or dodging trees. With a price tag of $550 and a wood core, they’ve earned a glowing 5.0/5 star rating. Here’s what one happy user said:

"These skiblades are so much fun and easy to control. Never going back to regular skis." - Andrew B.

99 cm Skiblades: Versatility for Powder and Mixed Terrain

For those who want something that handles both powder and groomed runs, the 99 cm Skiblades offer a sweet middle ground. They’re playful yet stable, floating well in deeper snow while staying nimble on packed trails. Priced from $590, they’re designed to tackle varied conditions with ease - something that can be a challenge for traditional skis. Users consistently praise their ability to handle unpredictable terrain.

120 cm Skiblades: Speed and Control for Advanced Skiers

If speed is your thing, the 120 cm Skiblades are built for you. These are perfect for high-speed runs on groomed slopes or all-mountain adventures, offering the performance of longer skis without the extra bulk. At $775, they’re engineered for stability and precision, giving advanced skiers full control. Daniel Siouffi, a verified user, summed it up perfectly:

"Going fast, I was in complete control of every turn and stop." - Daniel Siouffi

Despite their added length, these skiblades remain lighter and more responsive than traditional skis, proving you don’t need extra weight to go fast.

Versatile Bindings and Stellar Reviews

No matter which size you pick, all Snowfeet Skiblades come with versatile bindings that even let you use snowboard boots - no need for stiff ski boots. With an overall rating of 4.9/5 stars from over 5,500 verified reviews, these skiblades are clearly hitting the mark for today’s skiers.

Why Snowfeet Products Beat Traditional Skis

Snowfeet

When you dive into the world of Snowfeet products, it's easy to see why they leave traditional skis in the dust. Their edge lies in three simple but game-changing factors: ease of use, portability, and pure fun. While traditional ski brands have been churning out long skis for decades, they just don’t fit the needs of today’s skiers. Let’s break it down.

Comparison: Snowfeet vs. Traditional Skis

Feature	Snowfeet Skiskates (44 cm / ~17 inches)	Snowfeet Skiblades (65–120 cm / ~26–47 inches)	Traditional Skis (>170 cm / ~67 inches)
Weight	Super light; fits in a backpack	Lightweight; easy to carry	Heavy; needs roof racks or big bags
Learning Time	5–10 minutes	Quick (much easier than long skis)	Weeks or even months of lessons
Control & Turning	Excellent (skating motion gives instant response)	Great for carving and quick turns	Tough for beginners; awkward in tight spots
Portability	Fits in a standard backpack	Fits easily in a car trunk	Bulky and hard to transport
Boot Compatibility	Works with winter shoes or snowboard boots	Pairs with ski or snowboard boots	Requires stiff, rigid ski boots
Terrain Versatility	Perfect for slopes, trails, sledding hills, even backyards	Excels on slopes, snow parks, powder, and mixed terrain	Best for groomed slopes only
Price Range	$190–$490	$550–$775	$400–$1,200+ (plus boot costs)

Snowfeet products are feather-light compared to traditional skis, making them a dream to carry. They also shine in places where long skis just don’t cut it. And here’s the kicker: you’re not stuck with those stiff, uncomfortable ski boots. Depending on the model, you can use your regular winter shoes or snowboard boots.

Built for Today's Skiers

As the table shows, Snowfeet gear is designed to solve the headaches that come with traditional skis. They’re easy to pack for a quick mountain trip, save you from shelling out for pricey rentals or clunky boots, and - best of all - let you hit the slopes and have a blast from the very first run.

With over 50,000 riders worldwide, Snowfeet has proven that shorter skis are the way to go. Whether you’re weaving through a crowded slope, shredding in a terrain park, or exploring untouched trails, Snowfeet gives you unmatched freedom and control. Just ask Nathan F., who raved:

"Absolute game-changer! They're light, fast, and incredibly fun to ride."

For skiers who value convenience and versatility, Snowfeet is a no-brainer.

Conclusion: Try Snowfeet for Your Next Winter Trip

Let’s face it - traditional skis can feel like a hassle. They’re heavy, awkward to carry, and often require weeks of lessons just to get the hang of them. But what if your winter gear could keep up with your desire for spontaneity, fun, and convenience?

That’s where Snowfeet comes in. Designed to make skiing lighter, simpler, and way more enjoyable, Snowfeet offers gear that’s ready to go right out of the box. Whether you grab the compact Snowfeet Skiskates (just 44 cm long) for an easy-to-pack adventure or the 99 cm Skiblades for smooth carving through fresh powder, you’ll skip the clunky boots, avoid rental headaches, and dive straight into the fun - no lessons required.

Over 50,000 riders have already joined the Snowfeet movement, giving it an impressive 4.9/5 rating. This gear flips the script on winter sports, focusing on freedom and fun instead of outdated, cumbersome equipment. You’ll spend less time struggling and more time enjoying the snow - whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier looking for a fresh way to hit the slopes.

Ready to try something new? Visit snowfeetstore.com to explore their full lineup of Skiskates (starting at $190) and Skiblades (starting at $550). Find the perfect fit for your style and discover how winter sports can be light, portable, and, most importantly, ridiculously fun.

Make your next winter trip unforgettable - make it a Snowfeet trip.

FAQs

Why are Snowfeet Skiskates easier to learn than traditional skis?

Snowfeet Skiskates make skiing a whole lot easier for beginners compared to traditional long skis. At just 44 cm long, these little guys are super compact and lightweight, giving you better balance and control right from the start. That means you can skip the tough learning curve that comes with mastering full-length skis - no weeks of struggling with edge control and weight shifting.

Most beginners can get the hang of basics like gliding and turning in just one day with Snowfeet Skiskates. Traditional skis, on the other hand, can feel bulky and tricky to manage, which can slow you down and make the whole experience less fun. Snowfeet Skiskates are a great, confidence-boosting option for anyone who wants to enjoy the slopes without the hassle of traditional ski gear.

Can you use Snowfeet Skiskates on different types of snow?

Snowfeet Skiskates are built to handle just about any snow condition you throw at them. From cruising on groomed trails to slicing through fresh powder or tackling icy, hard-packed slopes, these skiskates are ready for it all.

Thanks to their compact size and smart design, they’re easier to control than traditional skis. That means you get more flexibility and fun on the slopes, no matter what kind of snow you’re dealing with!

What makes Snowfeet Skiblades better than traditional skis?

Snowfeet Skiblades bring a whole new vibe to the slopes, offering a smoother and more enjoyable experience compared to traditional long skis. With lengths of just 65 cm, 99 cm, or 120 cm (versus the usual 150–200 cm for standard skis), they’re much easier to control. For beginners, this compact design is a game-changer. It simplifies the learning process, making it easier to find your balance and master turns. Instead of wrestling with the steep learning curve of long skis, you get to glide around with a skating-like motion that’s way more intuitive.

But it’s not just about being beginner-friendly - these skiblades are super portable too. Their small size means you can tuck them into a backpack, which is perfect if you’re short on space or planning a trip. Plus, they’re surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re cruising down groomed slopes, hitting park features, or just exploring flat terrain, Snowfeet Skiblades deliver a playful “skate-on-snow” feel that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re new to winter sports or just want to try something different, these skiblades offer a mix of ease, portability, and fun that’s hard to resist.