Why 2026 Is the Year of Short Skis: The Skiblade Revolution

Short skis, also known as skiblades, are making waves in the skiing world, and 2026 is shaping up to be their breakout year. What’s the deal? These compact skis (65–120 cm) are all about fun, agility, and ease of use, making them perfect for anyone - from beginners to seasoned pros. Unlike their longer counterparts, skiblades are lighter, easier to handle, and much simpler to transport. Whether you’re hitting groomed trails, moguls, or terrain parks, they’re a game-changer.

Here’s the scoop:

Why Now? Skiing is shifting toward a more relaxed, playful vibe, and skiblades fit the bill perfectly.
Who Benefits? Beginners love the quick learning curve, while experienced skiers enjoy the versatility and reduced strain on knees.
What’s Popular? Brands like Snowfeet are leading the pack with models ranging from ultra-portable mini ski skates (38 cm) to all-mountain short skis (120 cm).
Cost-Effective: Skiblades are more affordable than traditional ski setups, starting at $170 for entry-level models.

If you’re tired of lugging around bulky gear or spending weeks mastering long skis, skiblades might just be your new favorite winter companion. Let’s dive into what makes these short skis so special and why they’re taking over the slopes.

Snowboarder tries Snowfeet* | Which Snowfeet* Short Ski is the Best? | Snowblades 44, 65, 99 Review

Snowfeet

What Makes Short Skis Different

Skiblades are a departure from traditional skis built for speed and stability by brands like Rossignol, K2, and Salomon. Instead, they’re designed for quick turns and effortless control. These features not only change the way you ski but also highlight why Snowfeet* has carved its own niche. Let’s take a closer look at the different size categories that make these skis so unique.

Size Categories of Short Skis

Short skis come in a variety of sizes, each catering to different riding preferences. The smallest are mini ski skates, like Snowfeet's 38 cm and 50 cm PRO models. These compact options fit in a backpack and pair with regular winter boots - perfect for spontaneous skiing adventures. Then there are skiskates, measuring around 44 cm. They’re built with a wood core, making them a solid choice for more serious slope action. Finally, skiblades range from 65 cm to 120 cm, offering a versatile mix of agility and control for various terrains.

Performance Benefits of Skiblades

The shorter length of skiblades means they respond instantly to your movements, allowing for tight, precise turns without the strain that longer skis often require. This makes them easier on your legs, even after a full day on the mountain. Beginners can pick up essential skills - like turning and stopping - in just one day. Compare that to the weeks it might take to master traditional skis or snowboards from brands like Burton or Völkl, which demand more time and technique. With skiblades, you get a smoother, more forgiving experience that enhances your time on the slopes.

Practical Benefits for U.S. Riders

Skiblades are incredibly lightweight and easy to transport. They fit neatly in your car’s trunk or even in the overhead compartments of ski shuttles, taking up far less space than traditional skis from brands like Head or Nordica. Say goodbye to lugging around bulky, 6-foot-long gear. Snowfeet’s models, especially the 65 cm and 99 cm skiblades, strike the perfect balance between portability and performance, giving you the flexibility to enjoy skiing without the usual hassle.

Why Snowfeet* Leads the Short Ski Market

Traditional ski brands often prioritize longer, heavier gear designed for high-speed stability. But Snowfeet* has taken a different route, shaking up the game with ultra-compact mini ski skates and versatile short skis. Tailored for the diverse U.S. landscape, these models combine portability with impressive performance. They’re built with a wood core for stability, fiberglass for a lightweight feel, and adaptable bindings to suit various needs. The result? A consistent 5.0 rating across their skiblades lineup, with users raving about their control and durability. Let’s dive into Snowfeet*'s standout offerings that are setting a new standard in short ski gear.

Snowfeet Mini Ski Skates (38 cm) and PRO (50 cm)

Snowfeet*’s Mini Ski Skates are all about convenience and fun. Compact enough to fit in your backpack, these models work with regular winter boots, making them perfect for spur-of-the-moment skiing adventures - whether it’s a local hill or even an urban snow-covered street.

38 cm Mini Ski Skates: Priced at $250, they’re great for quick outings and casual riders.
PRO 50 cm Model: At $275, the PRO offers adjustable bindings and comes in multiple colors for a more personalized experience.

Danielle D., a verified user, shared her thoughts:

"Easy and fun. My kids and I tried them out - after a bit of a balance adjustment, and taking into account we are non-skiers, lots of fun!!! Looking forward to more."

These models are ideal for anyone looking to jump into skiing without the hassle of traditional gear.

Snowfeet Skiblades (65 cm and 99 cm)

For those who crave agility and versatility, Snowfeet*’s skiblades are a dream.

65 cm Skiblades: Priced at $635, these are perfect for tricks, jumps, and tight maneuvers in terrain parks.
99 cm Skiblades: At $675, this model shines in deep carving and all-mountain use.

Both options feature a wood core, twin tips, and a slightly wider design that mimics a snowboard for smooth, edge-to-edge carving. Jimmy, another happy customer, shared:

"I love my 99 skiblades! Much easier to handle the moguls in the afternoon and gentler on my knees."

These skiblades also offer flexible binding options, including ski bindings, pro ski bindings, or snowboard bindings, so you can fine-tune your setup to match your style.

Snowfeet Short Skis (120 cm)

If you’re after a balance between traditional skis and skiblades, the 120 cm Short Skis are the answer. Priced at $775, these skis are designed for advanced riders who want all-mountain performance with the agility of shorter skis. They’re lightweight, easy to maneuver, and perfect for carving.

Daniel Siouffi, a verified user, described his experience:

"My first run the skis did shake but soon thereafter by distributing better my weight on my toes - I was flying like never before. Going fast I was in complete control of every move turns and stops. Your product is indeed the best and thank you for allowing me to rediscover the joy and happiness of skiing with such ease and with so much control."

This model is a game-changer for skiers who want high performance without the bulk of traditional equipment. It’s all about rediscovering the thrill of skiing with ease and precision.

How to Choose the Right Skiblade

Picking the perfect Snowfeet* skiblade boils down to three main things: your skill level, the type of terrain you prefer, and your budget. Unlike traditional skis that often lean toward a one-size-fits-all approach, Snowfeet* offers options that match how Americans love to ski - whether it’s quick laps in the terrain park or chasing powder in the Rockies.

Skill Level and Experience

For beginners, shorter models like the 38 cm Mini Ski Skates ($170, reg. $190) or the 50 cm PRO ($199, reg. $250) are great starting points. They make learning turns and stops easier, thanks to their skating-like feel. If you’re looking for a bit more stability while keeping things fun, the 65 cm Skiblades (starting at $520, reg. $550) are another solid choice.

Intermediate skiers who want to experiment with tricks or hit the terrain park will love the 65 cm Skiblades for their quick, nimble handling. Want something more versatile? The 99 cm Skiblades ($560, reg. $590) can handle everything from carving on groomers to mixed snow conditions, making them a great all-mountain option.

For seasoned riders, the 99 cm and 120 cm models are the go-to choices. The 120 cm Short Skis ($760, reg. $790) deliver a more traditional skiing experience but without the extra bulk. They’re lightweight, easy to maneuver, and simple to transport.

Once you’ve nailed down your skill level, think about the kind of terrain and snow conditions you’ll be tackling.

Terrain and Snow Conditions

If you’re sticking to groomed slopes, the 38 cm, 50 cm, or 65 cm models are perfect for carving turns edge-to-edge.

For moguls or bumpy terrain, you’ll need something agile. The 65 cm and 99 cm Skiblades are built for quick, tight turns, taking the strain off your knees as you navigate those tricky bumps.

On powder days, longer models come to the rescue. The 99 cm Powder variant or the 120 cm Short Skis provide the stability and float you’ll need in deeper snow.

And if you’re all about the terrain park, Snowfeet* has you covered there too. The 65 cm Skiblades are light enough for tricks and spins, while the 99 cm Skiblades offer more support for landing those jumps.

Now, let’s talk about the dollars and cents.

Budget and Value

Traditional ski setups can easily set you back anywhere from $1,300 to $2,300 once you add in skis, bindings, boots, and extras like roof racks or ski bags. Snowfeet* offers a much more affordable - and versatile - alternative.

If you’re just starting out, the 38 cm Mini Ski Skates ($170, reg. $190) and the 50 cm PRO ($199, reg. $250) are budget-friendly options. They work with your regular winter boots and are compact enough to fit in a backpack, saving you money on transport.

For mid-range options, the 65 cm Skiblades ($520, reg. $550) and 99 cm Skiblades ($560, reg. $590) come with bindings and a durable wood core. They deliver performance comparable to traditional skis that often cost twice as much. Plus, the universal bindings mean they can adapt as your family grows, cutting down on the need to buy new gear every season.

If you’re looking for a premium option, the 120 cm Short Skis ($760, reg. $790) still cost less than many traditional setups. They’re lighter, easier to transport, and reduce ongoing costs like storage and travel. With over 5,500 verified reviews and an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, Snowfeet* offers performance that stands toe-to-toe with traditional skis - giving you more time on the mountain without breaking the bank.

The Future of Winter Sports with Short Skis

How Skiblades Are Changing Rider Experiences

Skiblades are shaking up the world of winter sports by making things simpler and way more fun. Forget the bulky gear and endless lessons - these shorter skis are all about getting you on the slopes and enjoying yourself faster. Families especially love them because they cut down on the time spent learning and ramp up the time spent actually skiing together.

Unlike traditional skis that can put a lot of pressure on your knees - especially on moguls - skiblades are built for smooth, easy maneuvering. This means less strain on your joints and more hours of fun on the slopes. Models like the 65 cm and 99 cm skiblades are already proving how much they can enhance the experience.

Take it from Andrew B., a happy skier who shared:

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

With this kind of ease and accessibility, skiblades are carving a new path for winter sports, and Snowfeet* is leading the charge.

Snowfeet's Role in Growing the Sport

Snowfeet* has become a major player in the skiblade movement, earning the trust of over 50,000 riders and boasting 5,500+ verified reviews with an impressive 4.9 average rating. They’ve built their reputation with a lineup of products that cater to all kinds of skiers, from the compact 38 cm Mini Ski Skates to the longer 120 cm Short Skis. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone.

What really sets Snowfeet* apart is their dedication to quality and innovation. Their products are handmade in Europe using certified sustainable wood, ensuring they’re tough, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly. Plus, their unique binding options - like adjustable snowboard bindings - offer flexibility that traditional ski brands just can’t compete with.

Why Short Skis Are Here to Stay

Media outlets like Uncrate have praised skiblades for being "far more portable and affordable than traditional skis or snowboards", and it’s easy to see why. Skiblades tackle the biggest challenges of traditional skiing: they’re cheaper, easier to transport, quicker to learn, and gentler on your body. By solving these pain points, skiblades are opening up winter sports to a whole new audience.

Snowfeet* is at the forefront of this shift, proving that skiing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Their products make it easier than ever to hit the slopes, focus on having fun, and embrace a more relaxed approach to winter sports. It’s clear that short skis are here to stay, and they’re changing the game for the better.

FAQs

Why are skiblades a better choice for beginners than traditional skis?

Skiblades are a great pick for beginners because their shorter, lighter design makes them much easier to handle than traditional skis. For anyone just starting out, mastering basics like turning, stopping, and staying balanced feels more intuitive and a lot less overwhelming.

Traditional skis can be bulky and require more effort to control, which can be frustrating for first-timers. Skiblades, on the other hand, are compact and super responsive, letting you focus on enjoying the ride instead of wrestling with technique. They’re a fun, easygoing way to ease into winter sports and build your confidence on the slopes.

How do Snowfeet skiblades improve your skiing experience on different terrains?

Snowfeet skiblades take your skiing to the next level with their incredible agility and control. Thanks to their compact design, carving tight turns and pulling off quick maneuvers feels like second nature. They shine on groomed trails, hard-packed snow, and even those narrow, tricky paths. Plus, their movement feels a lot like skating - smooth, natural, and just plain fun.

What sets them apart from traditional skis? They're super lightweight and easy to carry, so you won't feel weighed down. Whether you're cruising down mountain slopes, hitting up terrain parks, or navigating challenging spots, these skiblades make every run exciting. They're easy to use and work well for skiers of all levels, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add some variety to their winter adventures.

Why are skiblades a more affordable option compared to traditional skis?

Skiblades are a wallet-friendly option, usually priced between $150 and $690, compared to traditional ski setups, which can range from $250 to over $1,100. On top of that, skiblades don’t need specialized boots or bindings, which means you save even more by skipping extra gear.

Thanks to their compact size and sturdy construction, skiblades are built to last. They’re a great pick for casual skiers and beginners looking for a fun, versatile option that won’t drain their budget.