Mini Skis | Complete Guide

Mini skis, also known as short skis, have become the newest sensation in the world of winter sports. Drawing inspiration from two beloved activities—skiing and ice skating—these compact skis open up exciting new possibilities on the slopes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, mini skis offer something for everyone. So, let’s dive into the world of mini skis and discover why they might just become your new favorite winter gear!

What Exactly Are Mini Skis?

In the simplest terms, mini skis are short skis that are typically less than 100 cm in length (but the length goes from 65 to 120 cm in some cases). They’re designed to be used by skiers of all levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. Mini skis have surged in popularity as a fun, more versatile alternative to traditional long skis. They can be used in a variety of snow conditions, from powder and groomed runs to terrain parks.

Although some people mistakenly assume mini skis are only for beginners or crazy free-style riders, the truth is that they’re a fantastic choice for anyone who values agility, playfulness, and control on the slopes. They’re great for freestyle skiing, terrain park tricks, and even casual skiers looking for something different.

Snowfeet: Skates for Snow

One standout in the mini ski world is Snowfeet, a product that’s designed to combine the best elements of skating and skiing. Think of Snowfeet as skates for snow—they’re lightweight, portable, and easy to attach to your winter boots. One of their biggest selling points? You can fit them in a standard backpack and take them wherever your adventure leads, from sledding hills to snowy trails or ski resorts. 

Snowfeet are built from fiberglass-reinforced material with adjustable bindings, meaning they fit most boot sizes. This makes them perfect for people who want to mix things up, whether you’re hiking, cross-country skiing, or just having fun on a local hill. If you’re an ice skater or hockey player, Snowfeet might feel like second nature since they offer a similar experience, but on snow.

If you feel like skating sound like a great fit for ski slopes, too, Skiskates, are your go-to gear. With bindings for ski or snowboard boot, skiskates bring skating to the slopes. They are sturdier than Snowfeet with better ankle support (thanks to ski and snowboard boots). 

So, What’s the Purpose of Mini Skis?

Mini skis, while popular for freestyle skiing and terrain park action, aren’t limited to just tricks and stunts. They’re a great option for anyone who prefers not to deal with the bulk and length of traditional skis. Their shorter length makes them easy to control, which is especially appealing for beginners who are still mastering the basics of skiing. So simply put, if you are not a race skier but you enjoy a few skiing trips per season, mini skis will be your perfect gear: you will enjoy more relaxed skiing, and as a bonus, you won't drag around heavy long skis. 

But mini skis aren’t just for newcomers—skiers of all skill levels can benefit from the enhanced agility and maneuverability that shorter skis provide. Whether you’re navigating tight spaces, like tree runs, or performing spins and jumps in the terrain park, mini skis offer a more playful and versatile experience than longer skis.

Types of Mini Skis

When we talk about mini skis, we’re covering skis that range anywhere from 44 cm to 120 cm in length. The skiing experience can vary greatly depending on the length, so let’s break down the different types of mini skis:

1. Skiskates (Skates for Snow)

Skiskates, also known as Snowfeet, are a specific type of mini skis that are no longer than 50 cm. They offer a unique combination of skiing and skating, providing a familiar feel for those who enjoy ice sports. Snowfeet, in particular, are compact, easy to carry, and great for spontaneous skiing adventures. Simply attach them to your winter boots and you’re ready to glide down any snow-covered slope.

Skiskates work best on groomed slopes and in snow parks, where their short length gives you the freedom to move like a skater. While they may be tiny, they pack plenty of versatility and are great for anyone looking to experience a blend of skiing and skating. You can choose from ski and snowboard bindings. 

2. Skiboards (Snowblades/Skiblades)

Skiboards, often referred to as snowblades or skiblades, are another type of short ski. Ranging in length from 65 cm to 120 cm, they provide more support and stability than skiskates while still offering the ease of short skis. They’re ideal for people who want the freedom of movement that mini skis provide but with a bit more control for downhill skiing.

65 cm Skiboards
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.

99 cm Skiboards
This size is the sweet spot for many skiers. The 99 cm skiboards provide enough support to feel stable while still being playful and easy to maneuver. They’re excellent for carving, snowpark tricks, and all-mountain skiing.

How to Master Skiskating

Having fun with skiblades is just like skiing but more enjoyable, lighter, and less tiring. Skiskating is a whole different story, though. Skating on snow with mini skis or skiskates is a bit different from traditional skiing, but don’t worry—it’s easy to learn! If you’re a hockey player or ice skater, you’ll pick it up in no time. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Maintain Balance

Keep your legs about shoulder-width apart and your weight centered. Position one foot slightly ahead of the other to enhance stability.

2. Keep Your Knees Bent

Flexibility is key for skiskating. Bend your knees to absorb the bumps and maintain control. If you start to lose balance, tilt forward slightly and extend your arms.

3. Balance Front to Back

Unlike traditional skiing, where you lean into your toes, you’ll want to keep your weight more centered or toward the back of your feet when skiskating. This will prevent you from tipping forward.

4. Push Like a Hockey Player

Begin your movement by pushing off to the side, similar to how you would on ice skates. Avoid leaning too far forward, as this can cause the tips of the skis to dig into the snow.

5. Stop Like a Skater

To stop, use a hockey-style stop by shifting your weight equally on both feet. For slowing down, use the heel brake.

6. Turn Like You’re Skiing

The technique for turning is similar to skiing. Angle your mini skis and lean your body in the direction you want to go.

Are Mini Skis Good for Beginners?

Yes! 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.

Skiboards, in particular, are a great choice for those just starting out. They’re light, easy to maneuver, and provide a more forgiving ride. If you’re nervous about tackling the slopes for the first time, mini skis can give you the confidence you need to enjoy your time on the mountain.

For hockey players and ice skaters, mini skis like Snowfeet or Skiskates might feel even more intuitive, since they mimic the sensation of skating on snow.

Do Mini Skis Go Slower Than Traditional Skis?

Not necessarily. While mini skis may feel a bit different in terms of stability at high speeds, they can still reach impressive speeds. The main difference is that they allow for quicker, tighter turns, which can actually make your skiing experience feel faster and more dynamic.

On most ski slopes, the speed difference between mini skis and traditional long skis is negligible. Unless you’re competing at an Olympic level, you’ll likely enjoy the same speeds on both types of skis.

Can You Cross-Country Ski on Mini Skis?

Yes! Mini skis, particularly Snowfeet, are great for cross-country skiing. Their lightweight design makes them perfect for long hikes or casual treks through snowy landscapes. They’re easy to pack and carry, making them a versatile option for cross-country adventurers.

Why You Should Try Mini Skis

Mini skis are an exciting and fun alternative to traditional long skis. They’re perfect for beginners, freestyle enthusiasts, and anyone looking to try something new on the slopes. Whether you’re hitting the terrain park or cruising down a groomed run, mini skis offer a unique blend of agility, control, and playfulness.

If you haven’t tried mini skis yet, now’s the time to give them a go! You might just find that these little skis can make a big impact on your skiing experience. Have you already tried mini skis? Let us know what you think in the comments below!