Kids may be little, but they too need the right equipment to enjoy a lifetime of enjoyment of the sport of skiing.

Skis
There are a wide range of skis available for kids today. Whether a child is in a seasonal program or skis just a few times a year, picking the right size and model is critical for a child to progress in the sport and the right ski will certainly enhance their enjoyment of the sport.

Kids do not weigh very much and since their bodies have not yet gained any muscle tone, pick a ski that will be easy for them to turn, but still offers them stability. The more stability the child has, the easier it will be to learn to properly carve a turn.

For the aspiring junior racer, choose a race model ski. It is wise to consult with your child's coach for size selection and to determine what type of ski is most appropriate for the level of training and competition they will be participating in. It is important to remember that both USSA (the national governing board of ski racing) and the F.I.S. (the international governing board of ski racing) have implemented rules for minimum ski length and ski radius for SL (slalom) and GS (giant slalom) for each age class.

For the high level skier, an Expert All-Mountain Ski, just like what is available for mom and dad, will offer the best performance. This type of ski is ideal for the non-racer who skis all over the mountain. These skis are great for cruising, skiing the steeps and the bumps as well as for the occasional race course.

Freeskiing is hotter than ever and this type of ski is ideal for kids looking for a little adventure. Designed just for kids, these skis offer a wider body shape suitable for the bumps, powder, skiing in the trees as well as for the park and pipe.

Length is a crucial decision in selecting kids skis. The child’s weight is a key factor, but the typical ski should reach their nose. For race skis, they must meet the size requirement for their age group, but typically a slalom ski will be chin height and a giant slalom ski will be eyebrow height. For young athlete looking for one ski, choose a slalom or duel-event model, typically easier to carve than a giant slalom ski for younger racers.

Flex also needs to be taken in to consideration. For a ski to carve, the skier must be able to bend the ski into its sidecut. Creating the arc, through flex, is necessary for carving.

Bindings
Every ski needs something to secure a boot to them. This is where the binding comes in. Bindings are designed for safety so they will release when appropriate. It is important to select a binding based on your child's weight and skiing ability. At the Junior racing level, there are requirements for standheight (ski, plate, binding), by age class, so keep this in mind when selecting an appropriate binding.

Boots
Everyone who skis, no matter what your age, deserves to have boots that fit properly, are warm and dry. Boots are the most critical piece of equipment since the feet play a crucial role in getting a ski to turn properly. Boots are available for every ability level including the junior racer, the intermediate level skier as well as the new young skier.

Choose a front entry boot suitable for your weight and skiing ability and make sure you have a good fit, and that means for this season, not the next few years. A child should be able to flex the boot so they can get forward over the skis. Some kids need a little help in this department and heel lifts can make a difference. A qualified boot fitter will give a child the best fit possible.

If you are involved with ski racing, there are requirements for maximum boot height for each age class, so keep this in mind when shopping for a good fitting boot. For non-racers finding a reputable shop with a seasonal equipment rental program is a great alternative to purchasing equipment for kids.