Updated
If you’re looking for the easiest, downhill mini skis that any newbie or pro will effortlessly glide and thoroughly enjoy their ride; then the Mini ski model ski will applicably fit your boot, and these skis designed to fit your boot like mini snowboards will boost any rider’s comfort and performance, when downhill snow skiing.
They generally fit with most pairs of ski boot bindings, being engineered to work with release or non-release bindings. The boots are generally around 40 to 90 cm and come in a few different widths depending on the function and design of the mini-ski.
Mini-ski’s go by a few different names, some of which are Skiboards, Short Skis, Bigfoots, and Snowblades; many different manufacturers name their product differently, for whatever style they’re trying to mimic more.
The wider skies allow for more off-trail riding, in between trees, and gliding on powder really becomes an easily masterful skill with these mini skis. Think of all the new places these skies could take a skier to that wasn’t accessible to them before, similar to back mountain snowboarding.
Contents
- What to look for in Mini Skis, Skiboards, Short Skis, or Snowblades
- 1. Summit Carbon Pro 99cm Skiboards Snowblades
- 2. Skiskates – Short Mini Ski Skates for Snow
- 3. Elan Freeride Skiboards 99cm Snowblades
- 4. Snowfeet Skiboards
- 5. Summit Skiboards Bamboo 110cm
- 6. TEAM MAGNUS Snow skis
- 7. SnowJam 540 Titan 90 cm Skiboards Snowblades
- 8. New Wildcat 95cm Jr Waxless Cross Country Backyard Ski
- 9. X-Morph Snowblades
- 10. Snowjam Five Forty Panzer 75cm Skiboards Snowblades
- Mini Skis FAQ
What to look for in Mini Skis, Skiboards, Short Skis, or Snowblades
Price
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a new pair of skis that will give you an advantage in downhill riding, or a pro who’s looking for a pair of skis that will take you new places, then mini skis will easily make for a pleasant, affordable ride.
Mini skis, or more commonly known as snowblades or ski boards have a fairly diverse range for pricing; usually ranging around $70, for the cheaper grade, usually meant for children; and the higher grade ranging upwards of easily $600.
Comparing this price to your average grade a ski seems favorable to most buyers when your normal pair of skis can shoot for prices as high as 2k+ depending on the brand, and quality of material and manufacturing.
Shape
Mini skis usually tend to be shaped similar to a small snowboard, designed to glide on powder and provide maximum carving, similar to snowboard riding. Shorter ski boards are more maneuverable, easier to learn on, great in moguls, glades, and have a similar feel to inline skates.
When searching Mini-ski through most vendors or most brands you’ll come up with a few different products that are designed to apply to different styles of riding, most mini skis or ski boards aren’t built for park, or tricks as much as they are developed for downhill carving.
Features
Many designs are made to be more applicable for a diverse ride when carving downhill, some less engineered skis tend to be primarily for only downhill, and don’t do well on moguls or rails as well as the higher quality pair of mini skis.
The twin tips offer an extremely short learning curve, with the potential to ride anywhere you care to go. The smaller size is great for anyone looking for greater control and maneuverability, without sacrificing quality or performance.
Our Decision
We made our decision today based on top brands on the market and their long history in the Mini ski and skiboard sport market and the attributes mentioned above. Each board individually poses as a good pick for any skier, but this review has the top boards listed in order from best, and runners up.
1. Summit Carbon Pro 99cm Skiboards Snowblades
The Summit Carbon Pro 99cm Skiboards Snowblades with Atomic L10 Release Bindings is our favorite choice of mini skis, measuring at 99cm because of their exceptional design and their features.
These snowblades have Atomic L10 bindings and 2 skis leash included. Their design is great for freestyle and also allows easy turning without catching edges at high speeds. They also offer High performance for stability at speed.
The Carbon Pro 99 cm features fast die cut sintered bases (for speed and glide), aggressive beveled edges (for grip), twin tip high energy wood core, and a carbon fiber top sheet.
The Carbon fiber top sheet adds extra durability, enhanced stability in edging, and higher energy performance.
This high-energy construction delivers almost effortless carves, with stability at speeds that will truly surprise you.
They fit ski boot sizes 257-380 mm (approx. size 4 – 14 U.S.). These skiboards are recommended for advanced to expert riders and intermediate riders who are ready to take a quantum leap. These mini skis won’t disappoint you.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
2. Skiskates – Short Mini Ski Skates for Snow
Another great option if you’re looking for the best mini skis is the Skiskates – Short Mini Ski Skates for Snow. These are just like ice skates for snow, the shortest skis ever made (44 cm). A combination of skis and skates. They’re simply ski slope ice skates. The ski skates are available with either ski bindings or snowboard bindings.
Skiskates are great for you if you love skiing, inline skating, ice hockey, or snowboarding. You can use Skiskates with your ski boots. For snowboarders there is an available option of ski skates with snowboard bindings.
Skiskates allow you to skate on snow and do a variety of twists, leaps, and tricks, as well as access areas that you wouldn’t be able to access with skis, such as tiny hiking trails. They also fit into your backpack, allowing you to take them practically anyplace.
These are really a one-size-fits-all solution. Ski boots of various sizes can be accommodated by simple adjustable bindings. (22,5-32,5 MP/Ski boot size) Size range: 36-49 EU / 4.5-14.5 US / (22,5-32,5 MP/Ski boot size).
These mini skies are easily transportable and very lightweight. Made of high-quality technologies cap structure + wood core and for easy control, metal edges are used.
Note that the ski boots on the picture are just for illustration, the boots aren’t part of this product.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
3. Elan Freeride Skiboards 99cm Snowblades
These Mini Skis from Elan are a perfect choice for freeriding, backward riding, carving, turning, and having fun on the slopes. Elan has been in the skiboard market for over a decade, always coming out with numerous, innovative models like Elan Freeride Skiboards 99cm Snowblades.
These mini skis have a narrower profile for ease of use, new graphics and are made of a tip-to-tail wood core, asymmetrical twin tips, and come pre-mounted with Elan’s full feature ESP10 step-in release bindings (made by Tyrolia), that include brakes so you don’t need any leashes.
Made with rugged “snakeskin” top sheet to provide maximum durability against nicks and scratches. Bases are graphite – extra durable and fast.
Not only are these great at speed with surprising stability, but these just look great. The Elan Freeride 99cm skiboards provide a smooth ride with quick edge-to-edge carving, an all-around skiboards choice.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
4. Snowfeet Skiboards
These skiboards, snowblades, short mini skis, skiblades or whatever other name you prefer calling them are another great option from snowfeet. These little skis are the most enjoyable thing a skier could ever do on a mountain, and they’re also really simple to learn! Who said skis have to be long in the first place?
The Snowfeet skiboards have a way of constantly bringing out the kid in you. Using these skis to perform tricks like jumping, spinning, and riding backwards is a lot of fun. Simple turning both long and short enough for skating.
Very easy to use, quick learning curve. Unlike heavy, long skis, they are incredibly responsive, light on your feet, and simple to ride. Carving is easy and fast turns thanks to the narrow waist width, short length, and parabolic shape.
They are lightweight and fit to any bag so you can take them anywhere easily. Best for downhill skiing on ski slopes and in snow parks, and fantastic for all kinds of twists, jumps, and tricks. Easy and fun to handle moguls and bumpy terrain. Ride anywhere you dare to go – they let you access areas like narrow hiking trails you wouldn’t be able to enjoy whilst wearing long skis.
Excellent for skiers of all skill levels who want to get the most out of their trip, from beginners to experts. Excellent for adults, kids, and ski instructors. Ideal for adults teaching kids skiing because they allow for very agile movements. There is no age limit.
Specifications
- TECHNICAL PARAMETERS:
- LENGTH – 65 cm | 26 inch
- DIMENSIONS: Tip/Waist/Tail Width: 11 – 9,5 – 11 cm, Radius = 4 m, Tip/Tail Height: 4,2 cm / 3,2 cm
- SKI BOOTS Size range: 36-49 EU / 4.5-14.5 US / 22,5-32,5 MP
- SNOWBOARD BOOTS Size range: 38-49 EU / 6-14.5 US
- CAMBER SHAPE – Designed for easy control and effortless carving experience.
- HIGH-QUALITY TECHNOLOGY – Cap construction + certified sustainable wood core. Metal edges for easy control. Graphite bases – for great speed and durability. Deep parabolic side cut – for easy turns. Asymmetrical high twin tips – great for both forward and backward riding.
- BINDING TYPES: 1. Simple Ski Boot Bindings, 2. Snowboard Boot Bindings
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
5. Summit Skiboards Bamboo 110cm
The Bamboo 110 skiboard is an awesome choice of mini skis that promise to deliver almost effortless carves, with stability at speeds that will truly surprise you.
Highly durable thanks to the 3D Carbonium top sheet, beautiful graphics, and a length of 110cm, perfect for all-mountain skiboarding whether hitting those secret powder stashes, plunging down steep chutes, or making super-fast turns through the moguls and trees.
They come premounted with Atomic L10 Ski Release Bindings and are made of the vertically laminated high-quality wood core, with aggressive beveled edges and torsional stiffness that provide amazing hold on hardpack and ice.
Recommended for: advanced to expert riders who seek more maneuverability, stability at speed, and all-mountain freestyle riding. And for intermediate riders who are ready to take a quantum leap in their riding ability. Unlike most skiboards, these have 2 years’ warranty.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
6. TEAM MAGNUS Snow skis
Another pick for the best snowblades is the Team Magnus Snow skis for Kids as used by USA Nordic & Ski Jumping Federation. These skiboards adjust to all boot sizes for skills and fun.
These short skis allow small kids to get up quickly. The lightweight makes them easy to carry. The high-quality Swedish ski straps have exceptionally secure buckles. The skis attach firmly to any shoe or boot giving a great sense of control. We recommend using regular winter boots as they are far more comfortable to wear than adjustable ski boots.
The top-grade UV-resistant HDPE plastic tolerates wide temperature differences and a weight up to 175 pounds.
These durable plastic skis can be used on frosty grass or to trample down deep snow. This pair of mini-skis can be used by toddlers as young as 3 up to adults with a 10 shoe size. Backyard skiing is motivating for first-time skiers.
It is available in 6 different colors and it’s a perfect gift idea for kids at a very reasonable price.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
7. SnowJam 540 Titan 90 cm Skiboards Snowblades
Another pick for this review of the best snowblades 2023 is Snowjam 90cm Titan Skiboards with Fixed ski boot bindings. These skis are super fun. We trust Snowjam since they first came out and are always impressed with their quality (for over a decade now).
These are truly very reliable, durable skiboards. Snowjam wood core twin tips are very easy to turn, spin, go backward and even ride powder. They are also stable at speed.
These 90cm skiboards are an easy way to perfect your skills on the slopes as well as being super fun, much more like skating on snow.
The twin-tip skiboards offer an extremely short learning curve, with the potential to ride anywhere you care to go. The 90cm size is perfect for those preferring greater control and maneuverability, but don’t want to compromise on quality and performance.
With their wide body shape, these are great on the groomers, moguls, glades, or even powder. They are super fun to ride off the back tails and for spinning and riding backward.
Snowjam 90cm comes with lightweight, integrated, easy-to-adjust composite bindings that are highly durable. These provide great performance and fit ski boots 4-11.5 US.
These are long-lasting skiboards that will take a beating if you ride skiboards hard as well as for those who enjoy cruising.
Snowjam Bindings are made of a lightweight composite construction including the toe levers. These bindings fit all ski boots, hardshell snowboard, and AT boots.
NOTE: These bindings are non-release and will not release in the event of a fall or collision and could result in serious injury. Recommended for: beginners (who want to advance quickly), intermediate and even advanced riders who want to have fun with a skate-like feel. Excellent conversion for skaters.
Warranty: 1 year.
Specs: Length:90cm
Tip/tail height:5.5/5.5cm
Radius:5.7m
Tip/waist/tail width:13.2/11.2/13.2cm
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
8. New Wildcat 95cm Jr Waxless Cross Country Backyard Ski
If you aim to make sure that your little ones thoroughly enjoy cross country skiing this winter, one of the best things you can do for them is get them a pair of good skis designed purposely for kids and which comes with features that not only improve learning but also keep your kids safe and happy on the slopes. In today’s post, we shall introduce you to the New Wildcat 95cm Jr Waxless Cross Country Backyard Ski Set from Whitewoods.
This ski set comes complete with a fantastic pair of kids’ Nylon molded 95cm skis that are built for fun and confidence development, Kinder bindings that securely and comfortably hold their boots, and the performance-enhancing Wild Cat poles that are made of aluminum and feature durable plastic baskets.
All these things come together to make this ski set one of the most impressive cross country starter sets for kids who are between the ages of 4 and 8.
If you need more info, check our Review of New Wildcat Jr Waxless Cross Country Backyard Ski Set 95cm Review.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
9. X-Morph Snowblades
At 99cm long, these Mini Skies are easy to control when downhill bombing, riding backward or carving, they are particularly fun riding backcountry and on moguls, they feel similar to a mix between traditional skis, rollerblading, and ice skating.
These skies are expertly crafted, made with Fullwood core, 6 m/ 8 ft. set with carving plate, easy adjustable universal binding, super lightweight, and flexibility. The profiled CAP length: 99,5cm – one size fits all (minimal height of skier is 5″ = 150cm ).
Recommended for beginners who are looking to boost their confidence in their ride, or more experienced skiers who are looking to try something new as far as the style of riding.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
10. Snowjam Five Forty Panzer 75cm Skiboards Snowblades
These Mini skis boards are top of the line, Snow Jam has making mini ski products for decades now. These twin tip multi-wood layered core, provide an amazing ride for downhill, with easy turning, riding backward, carving, and even powder riding that might not normally be available to some skiers.
These skis cut the learning curve for most skiers, taking no longer than a day to master and start hitting blacks with ease.
The Snow Five-Forty Panzer 75cm Skiboards snowblades wide design provides an amazing ride on moguls, glades, back mountain riding, switch, and fakie (riding backward).
These Mini Ski Snow Blades are incredibly durable and because of their custom, lightweight set bindings provide an all-around very light weight Ski.
>>> See Specifications & Read Customer Reviews on Amazon! <<<
Mini Skis FAQ
What are the mini skis called?
This is a pair of skiboards. “Snowblades,” “microskis,” “bigfoots,” “snow skates,” and “figgles” are some of the other names for these skis. Our editors refer to them as “mini-skis” until an industry standard is established. Mini-skis range in length from 40 to 90 cm and are attached to your regular ski boot via releasable or non-releasable bindings.
Are short skis better for beginners?
Beginner skiers should ride a ski that is no longer than the top of their chests as a general rule. Skis with a shorter and softer flex are easier to manage, making turning easier and speed gain less scary.
Are Snowfeet allowed at ski resorts?
On the ski slopes, use them for downhill. Snowfeet are not permitted on all ski slopes, but the majority of them do.
Are mini skis easier?
The fundamental benefit of short skis is that their turning radius is inherently lower, making it easier to turn more sharply. Park skiers like a little shorter ski since they are lighter and easier to control on hard snow (very short skis aren’t).
Thanks for reading and good luck! Feel free to drop a question, or comment and let us know what you thought of our selections and yours.
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Hello
Which skis do you recommend for cross country skiing?
Well, here are a few recommendations for cross country skis:
Salomon Snowscape
Rossignol Evo OT 65 Positrack
Madshus Epoch 68
Fischer Spider 62 Crown
Madshus CT 140 Intelligrip
Asnes Ingstad
Fischer Fibre Crown EF Tour
Salomon RS Skate
I hope it helps
I’me surelly one of the world oldest snowbladers since the 1990s and I still use a pair of Salomon Miniverse… because with 80cm they fit in my plane travelling bag and are fun and easy to ski!!
Skiboards are awesome, ive ridden cheap $100 boards with non release binding, ones on the smaller size down to 88cm and ones up to 125cm, some have bindings mounted direct to boards and some have had risers for releaseables mount to them……they have all been fun. Ive taken beginners out and had them feel confident the first day, even when they have been on skis for several seasons and still not confident. I would definitely recommend ones with releaseable bindings if you can afford the little bit extra, easier than dealing with the leashes.