Short answer: a good starting point is to pick skis that reach roughly from your chin to just above your head, with room to adjust based on your skill and preferred feel. How to choose your ski size

• Height-based starting point: For most adults, a common starting range is about chin to forehead/eye level on the top of your head. If you’re taller, you may select a ski closer to your head height; if shorter, closer to your chin. This gives a balance of stability at speed and ease of turning.
• Skill and style matter: Beginners and intermediate skiers often benefit from slightly shorter skis within the range for easier maneuverability, while advanced skiers may opt for longer sticks for stability at speed and in variable snow.
• Terrain and type: Narrow carving skis are typically chosen shorter within the range for quick turns, while wider all-mountain or powder skis may be recommended a bit longer for float and stability.
• Height and weight considerations: For very lightweight skiers or athletes between sizes, some prefer choosing a ski a bit shorter for control, while heavier or more aggressive skiers might push toward the upper end of the range.
• Waist width, rocker, and turn radius: These factors influence feel. A ski with more rocker or a wider waist can feel longer in use, so some skiers choose a length slightly shorter than the pure height-based guide to compensate.

Practical quick-start guide

• If you’re 5'8" (173 cm): aim around 160–180 cm depending on weight and aggressiveness.
• If you’re 6'0" (183 cm): many skiers choose roughly 170–190 cm.
• If you’re just learning: start near the lower end of your height-based range (shorter within the recommended span) to improve balance and turning.

What to do next

• Visit a reputable guide or retailer’s sizing chart to see their specific recommendations by your height, weight, and intended terrain.
• If possible, demo a few lengths on the mountain or at a shop to feel which length gives you the best balance of stability and maneuverability.

If you share your height, weight, skier ability (beginner, intermediate, advanced), and the type of skiing you mostly do (piste, all-mountain, or powder), a more precise length range can be suggested.