Kids' Skiing Gear

What type of terrain will you ski most?
Match your skis to the conditions and areas on the mountain you like to ski. Choices include all-mountain, powder, freestyle and backcountry skis.

Find your preferred ski length
Factor in your height and skiing ability. In general, the ski should reach between your chin and the top of your head.

Consider a ski's dimensions
A ski's dimensions are measured in width at 3 places: the tip, waist and tail. The waist (middle) is key; a narrow waist gets on edge quicker; a wider one floats better on powder.

Understand lens shapes

• Cylindrical lenses curve horizontally but are flat vertically. They're more affordable but may cause more glare and slightly limit peripheral vision.
• Spherical lenses curve both horizontally and vertically, offering better peripheral vision, less distortion and less glare. They cost more than cylindrical lenses.
• Toric lenses also curve in both directions, but with a subtler vertical curve. They offer improved optical clarity and reduced distortion—at a higher price point.

Lens tint and visible light transmission (VLT)

VLT refers to the percentage of light that passes through the lens and reaches your eyes.

• Bright sunny conditions: Look for a low light transmission (less than 25%).
• Partly cloudy conditions: Aim for light transmission between 25%-50%.
• Overcast, stormy or low-light conditions: Look for 50% or higher light transmission.
• Night riding: Use clear goggles or lenses with 80%-100% light transmission

Other features to consider:

• Many higher-end goggles come with two lenses—one for low light and one for bright conditions
• Interchangeable lenses let you swap lenses easily.
• Photochromic lenses automatically lighten or darken depending changing light though there is a lag time.