Looking for a fun, easy-to-handle alternative to long skis? Short skis are made for groomed slopes, offering quick turns, smooth carving, and portability. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skier, there's a short ski model that fits your style. Here's a quick breakdown:
- 44 cm Skiskates: Ultra-compact, perfect for tricks and a skating-like feel. Fits in a backpack!
- 65 cm Skiblades: Great for playful carving on blue runs, with more control than Skiskates.
- 99 cm Skiblades: A balance of agility and stability, ideal for blue and black runs.
- 120 cm Short Skis: Closest to a full ski experience, offering stability and speed for resort skiing.
Short skis are lightweight, easy to store, and attach to regular boots. Prices range from $575 to $850, making them affordable compared to full-size setups. Ready to carve up the slopes with less hassle? Let’s dive into the details!
1. Snowfeet* Skiskates (44 cm)
At just 17 inches (44 cm) long, the Snowfeet* Skiskates bring together the best of skiing and skating for a fun, dynamic experience on groomed slopes. Zbyněk, the founder of Snowfeet*, puts it best:
"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 and almost no restrictions."
Length and Maneuverability
The compact 44 cm length makes these skiskates incredibly light and easy to handle. They’re designed for quick edge-to-edge transitions and tight, controlled turns. Thanks to their parabolic shape and narrow waist, they carve smoothly, relying on subtle movements from your ankles and knees - similar to ice skating, but on snow. This design reflects Snowfeet*’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of slope performance.
Performance on Groomed Terrain
Built with a certified sustainable wood core, metal edges, and a graphite sintered base, these skiskates excel on groomed runs. They’re responsive and lively, making them perfect for intermediate blue-level slopes. On steeper or faster sections, the shorter edge might require more precision. Sunshine Straiges, a verified user, shared her experience:
"I experienced no muscle soreness, thanks to the flexible leg positioning - unlike the fixed stance required by snowboards."
This freedom of movement is a standout feature, offering a level of comfort that traditional skis and snowboards can’t match.
Portability and Storage
Weighing just 2.4–2.8 lb, these skiskates are easy to carry and fit into a standard backpack. Verified user heyjerz appreciated this convenience:
"A lot easier to haul around the hills & on vacation than traditional skis!"
They’re also super versatile, attaching to regular winter or snowboard boots with adjustable ratchet bindings, so there’s no need for specialized ski boots.
Price and Value
With prices ranging from $575 to $690 for the wood core model, these Skiskates offer a lightweight, portable, and fun alternative to traditional skis. Backed by a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 123 reviewers, they’re a solid investment for anyone looking to shake up their time on the slopes.
2. Snowfeet* Skiblades (65 cm)
The 65 cm Skiblades are all about combining agility with control, making them a great choice for groomed slopes. Jan from Snowfeet* captures their appeal perfectly:
"65 cm is the sweet spot - quick to learn, fast on groomers and agile even between trees."
Length and Maneuverability
At just 26 inches (65 cm), these skiblades are about 60% shorter than regular carving skis. This compact size, paired with a tight 4-meter turning radius, makes turning feel almost effortless. The narrow 9.5 cm waist and deep parabolic sidecut are all about precision carving, making it easy to zip through crowded resort slopes or sneak between trees. Their design is tailored for smooth, controlled carving on groomed terrain.
Performance on Groomed Terrain
These skiblades shine on groomed snow. With a sustainable wood core, graphite base, and full metal edges, they offer excellent grip and responsiveness on hard-packed snow and corduroy. The camber profile ensures confident carving at moderate speeds. While they’re not built for high-speed racing or deep powder, they deliver a lively and precise ride on well-maintained blue and red runs. Brad Tolin from Birmingham, AL, puts it simply:
"These skiblades are a blast to use. Super easy to control, quick to turn, and way more forgiving than traditional skis."
Portability and Storage
Weighing just 3.79 lbs (1,720 g) with bindings, these skiblades are lightweight and easy to carry. Their compact length means they fit in most car trunks - no need for a roof rack - and often even in standard luggage. This makes them a great option for city dwellers or frequent travelers who want to avoid the hassle of transporting bulky gear.
Price and Value
With prices ranging from $635 to $750 (depending on bindings), Snowfeet* Skiblades are a budget-friendly alternative to full-size ski and binding setups, which can cost $400–$800 or more. Considering that resort ski rentals average $40–$70 per day, regular skiers could easily break even within a season or two. Backed by a 4.96/5 rating from 77 verified reviewers, these skiblades deliver satisfaction for their intended use on groomed slopes, resort runs, and even terrain parks.
3. Snowfeet* Skiblades (99 cm)
The 99 cm Skiblades take the agility of the shorter 65 cm model and add a dash of stability, creating a ski that's both playful and capable. Snowfeet* calls this model the "ultimate short ski" - long enough to carve deep turns but still compact enough to keep things fun.
Length and Maneuverability
At 39 inches (99 cm), these Skiblades strike a sweet spot between quick turns and solid control. The deep parabolic sidecut makes turning feel effortless, with better edge grip and smoother weight transfers, especially on blue and black groomed runs. For intermediate skiers working on carving, these skis provide the stability needed for longer, more confident arcs. They combine the steadiness of traditional skis with the nimbleness of a compact design.
Performance on Groomed Terrain
These Skiblades are built with a sustainable wood core, a graphite base, and metal edges, making them great for gripping hardpack and handling variable conditions. The asymmetrical twin tips add versatility, letting you ski switch or even dabble in light park use. As one satisfied skier, Mike E., shared:
"For high-speed descents, you'll want longer skis. For everything else, these are absolutely incredible."
And while they perform well, they’re also designed with portability in mind.
Portability and Storage
The 99 cm Skiblades are easy to transport - no need for a roof rack. They fit across the back seat of most sedans or inside a compact SUV. Though they’re a bit heavier than the 65 cm version, they’re still far easier to carry and store than typical 160–180 cm skis. Brad Tolin from Birmingham, AL, summed it up nicely:
"Also a big plus - they're lightweight and much easier to carry around than full-size skis."
Price and Value
Priced between $675 and $850, depending on the bindings, these Skiblades offer a solid alternative to traditional ski-and-binding packages, which often range from $600 to over $1,000. With a 5.0/5 rating from 49 verified reviewers, they’re a great option for skiers in the U.S. looking for a portable, versatile setup for resort trails, moguls, and even the occasional park session.
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4. Snowfeet* Short Skis (120 cm)
The 120 cm Short Skis from Snowfeet* bring a classic skiing experience without the bulk of traditional long skis. Described by Snowfeet* as "the ultimate skis", they’re ideal for skiers who want sharp carving on groomed runs and the thrill of speed, minus the hassle of lugging around a pair of 170 cm skis.
Length and Maneuverability
Measuring 47 inches (120 cm), these skis provide more edge contact, which translates to cleaner carves on groomed blue and black runs. The added length gives a true ski-like feel during medium-radius turns but still allows for quick pivoting on crowded slopes or narrow East Coast trails. This balance of stability and agility makes them a standout choice for groomed terrain.
Performance on Groomed Terrain
These skis are specifically designed for resort skiing, where their metal edges and wood core shine. They offer excellent grip on hardpack and freshly groomed snow, holding their edge better than shorter models at higher speeds. As Snowfeet* puts it:
"The ultimate skis. Amazing carving experience. You don't need anything longer to enjoy skiing to the fullest."
While they’re not built for high-speed racing, they’re perfect for green, blue, and moderate black runs. They strike a great balance between agility and stability, making them a versatile option for most resort skiers.
Portability and Storage
Unlike full-length skis, these short skis are easy to transport. They slide into the back seat of a sedan or the trunk of an SUV - no need for a roof rack. For those with limited storage space, they can be hung on a wall rack or tucked into a closet, which isn’t an option with longer skis.
Price and Value
Priced at $775 on the official Snowfeet* website, the cost varies depending on the binding setup and seasonal discounts. Compared to full-length all-mountain ski packages from major brands, which often range from $800 to over $1,200, these skis offer a competitive alternative. They’re particularly appealing to intermediate skiers who spend most of their time on groomed runs and want a fun, compact setup that’s easy to use and store - unlike high-performance race skis that might sit unused for most of the season.
Pros and Cons of Each Model
Short Ski Comparison: Find Your Perfect Snowfeet* Model
Snowfeet* models are designed for groomed slopes, with each catering to a specific skiing style. Here's a quick look at the strengths and drawbacks of each option to help you decide which one matches your needs.
| Model | Best For | Key Strengths | Main Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skiskates (44 cm / 17 in) | Tricks, skating feel, ultra-portability | Compact enough to fit in a backpack; excellent agility on groomed runs; rated 5.0/5 stars by 123 reviewers | Less stable at higher speeds; challenging to balance front-to-back; not ideal for steep slopes |
| Skiblades (65 cm / 26 in) | Playful carving, hybrid skating/skiing | More edge contact than Skiskates; great for quick turns on groomed blue runs; rated 4.96/5 by 77 reviewers | Feels less secure on steep black runs; lacks power for long-radius carving |
| Skiblades (99 cm / 39 in) | All-around groomer performance | Excellent balance between stability and agility; smooth carving on blue and black groomed runs; rated 5.0/5 by 49 reviewers | Less suited for freestyle tricks compared to shorter models; too large to fit in a backpack |
| Short Skis (120 cm / 47 in) | Carving, speed, full-day resort skiing | Best edge grip on hardpack; highly stable for cruising at resort speeds; offers a familiar ski experience | Least agile of the four; bulkier and harder to transport |
Each model strikes a balance between agility and speed, depending on its design. Snowfeet* models stand out for their maneuverability, lightweight construction, and ease of storage compared to traditional skis. Plus, they’re compatible with standard ski boots, and some setups even work with snowboard boots.
In short, shorter models emphasize agility and playfulness, while longer ones focus on stability and carving. These details will help you make an informed choice as we wrap things up later.
Conclusion
Picking the right Snowfeet* model comes down to your skill level, riding style, and how much stability you want at speed.
| If you are... | Go with... |
|---|---|
| A beginner or cautious skier on easy groomers | Short Skis (120 cm / 47 in) or Skiblades (65 cm / 26 in) |
| An intermediate who wants agile carving on blue and black runs | Skiblades (99 cm / 39 in) |
| An experienced skier or skater craving maximum playfulness | Skiskates (44 cm / 17 in) |
Snowfeet* stands out from traditional skis when it comes to groomed slopes. Each model is designed for tight carving and precise edge transitions, something long, bulky skis (160–180 cm) just can’t match.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the lineup:
- 44 cm Skiskates: Compact enough to toss in your backpack, these are perfect for skaters or experienced skiers who want unmatched maneuverability.
- 65 cm Skiblades: A great choice for beginners, offering a smooth and forgiving ride to ease into short skis.
- 99 cm Skiblades: Ideal for intermediates, striking a balance between edge grip and agility for carving up blue and black runs.
- 120 cm Short Skis: The most stable option, these feel more like traditional skis but are easier to handle and store.
A handy tip? Go for the shortest model you can comfortably control at your usual speed. Unlike traditional skis or snowboards that require special boots, roof racks, and extra storage space, every Snowfeet* model attaches to standard winter or snowboard boots, fits in a car trunk, and gets you confidently carving from the get-go.
Snowfeet* isn’t just about shorter skis - it’s about transforming your groomed-slope experience with agility, portability, and precision.
FAQs
Which Snowfeet* length is best for my skill level?
The perfect Snowfeet* length varies based on your skill level and what you want to achieve.
- For beginners, shorter options are a great choice. The 44 cm Skiskates make learning easier, while the 65 cm Skiboards offer a mix of control and fun.
- For advanced riders, the 99 cm Skiblades are ideal. They provide better stability and agility, making them perfect for tricks.
Shorter lengths are beginner-friendly, while longer ones are better for experienced riders looking for more versatility.
What boots are compatible with Snowfeet* short skis?
Snowfeet* short skis fit ski boots ranging from size 4.5 to 14.5 US (36–49 EU) and snowboard boots from size 6 to 14.5 US (38–49 EU). Their design accommodates a broad range of boot sizes, making them a convenient option for many skiers.
Are short skis safe and stable at higher speeds?
Short skis, such as Snowfeet Skiblades and Skiskates, are all about giving you greater control and agility. When used properly, they’re stable and safe - even at higher speeds. Their shorter length makes quick turns and sharp carving a breeze, especially on groomed slopes. That said, staying safe also comes down to your skill level, technique, and following the right guidelines. Snowfeet products are lightweight and easy to handle, making them a fun and secure choice for adventurous skiers.
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