I used to have a pair of Big Foot ski blades by Kneissl in the 1990s. This pair in fact (in fluorescent pink no less):
I think they were technically called “skiboards” back then, and you can check out a history lesson here and in the video below:
They were a lot of fun but at 64cm long couldn’t hold an edge, however they were wide enough to do well in deep snow. I always wondered why Kneissl stopped making them, and assumed that it had been a fad.
Well if ads in my facebook news feed are anything to go by, the fad is now back for the 2024-2025 season!
Ski blades are compact, versatile skis offer a unique experience, blending the thrill of skiing with the agility of skating. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned skiers, ski blades promise an exhilarating ride.
Ski blades, also known as snowblades or skiboards, are shorter than traditional skis, making them easier to manoeuvre. Their compact size allows for quick turns and effortless control, perfect for those looking to experiment with tricks or navigate tight trails. Whether you’re carving down groomed pistes or exploring powdery terrains, ski blades can elevate your performance and fun on the mountain.
In this roundup, I’ll explore some of the best ski blades available, helping you find the perfect pair to suit your style and skill level.
Snowfeet Ski Blades
Versatile Mini Skis for All Snow Conditions
- Snowfeet Ski Blades
Snowfeet ski blades offer FUN and FREEDOM on the slopes. They’re built for both adults and kids, making them a fantastic family-friendly option for any winter adventure. With metal edges, you’ll have easy edge control, enhancing your manoeuvrability. Designed as a second pair, these ski blades are great for switching up your experience during a ski trip, adding excitement to your day. Ideal for instructors due to their agility, these blades are light and easy to ride, unlike traditional long skis. Bindings are non-releasable, ensuring they stay put even if you fall. Snowfeet prides itself as a premium brand, and you’ll feel that quality on every ride.
- Age range: Youth
- Skill level: All
- Colours: White, Black, Pink, Turquoise
- Style: BigFoots
- Material type: Wood
- Seasons: Winter
- Included components: Snowblades
- Package dimensions: 67.31 x 15.24 x 12.7 cm; 2.13 kg
GPO SnowBlade SnowSkate “HOT STAMP”
Complete Kit with Bindings for Hassle-Free Fun
GPO’s SnowBlade SnowSkate promises dynamic turns with a sandwich-wood core, offering an optimised carving feel. Featuring a torsion-box design, it delivers silent running, ideal for those who value smooth rides. This kit’s scratch-resistant surface in a 3D design ensures durability. Equipped with the GC-201 binding, it allows easy adjustments thanks to its “lift-up system” and “Quick-Lock” mechanism. Just step in and secure yourself for a hassle-free setup. Aerodynamic design complements its safe usage as it’s TÜV/GS approved, highlighting its reliability.
Designed for a superb ski blade experience, GPO SnowBlade SnowSkate flaunts a carving distance of 1.38 inches for precision. These snowblades are created with a cap construction, integrating a dynamic core wood, making them robust and resilient. Produced in Austria, their construction is backed by over 40 years of expertise from GASPO, collaborating with the successful Austrian ski team “Firngleiter and short-carver.”
- Size: 38.98 inch
- Material type: Wood
- Sport: Skiing
- Package Dimensions: 99 x 14 x 11 cm; 2.54 kg
GPO Snowblade Racing Figl
High-Performance Short Ski with GC-001 Binding for Men and Women
GPO’s Snowblade Racing Figl’s crafted with precision that’d excite any ski enthusiast. These high-performance short skis, developed with the ÖSV team’s input, are designed for agility and speed, perfect for competitive races. Notably, the racing figure integrates innovative carving technology, providing a slight waist for enhanced manoeuvrability.
The construction stands out with its wooden sandwich design and all-round edge, ensuring durability and racing surface excellence. At 65 cm in length, these skis provide a tight radius of 5.78 meters, giving you control on each turn. With a width of 100-93-96 mm, they offer stability and effortless control, making them suitable for both men and women.
You’ll find these skis not only fun to ride but stylish too, whether you’re carving down the slopes or showcasing them in the ski lodge. Made with care in the picturesque Salzkammergut region of Austria, they embody a long-standing tradition of excellent craftsmanship by a reputable family business.
- Material type: Wood
- Skill level: Beginner
- Product Dimensions: 65 x 93 x 0.1 cm; 2.1 kg
- Batteries included?: No
Skiskates
The Ultimate Short Mini Ski Skates for Thrilling Snow Adventures
Use Skiskates with your ski boots for an exciting adventure. These mini skis accommodate any boot size from 36 to 49 EU (4.5 to 14.5 US). Simply adjust the ski bindings to get the fit just right. Measuring only 44 cm in length, they’re the shortest skis in the world, perfect for popping into your backpack to take wherever your snow adventures lead.
Fit Skiskates into tight spots like narrow hiking trails where ordinary skis won’t venture. They’re designed to mimic the feel of ice skates on snow, letting you execute twists, jumps, and tricks effortlessly. This versatility makes them ideal for all skill levels, from beginners discovering their balance to experts seeking new thrills.
Choose from sophisticated black or classic white versions, both crafted with a robust cap construction and a sustainable wood core for durability and excellent performance. Metal edges add precision, making them reliable companions on diverse snow terrains. Skiskates redefine convenience, versatility, and fun in the world of winter sports.
- Sport: Skiskating
- Skill level: All
- Lens material: Cap construction + certified sustainable wood core. Metal edges.
- Color: SKI / Black
- Package Dimensions: 48.26 x 16.51 x 12.7 cm; 1.6 kg
- Included components: Skiskates
Factors to Consider When Choosing Ski Blades
Ski Blade Length and Width
Choosing the right length and width for ski blades can make all the difference in performance. Shorter blades, around 40 to 65 cm, offer greater manoeuvrability and are perfect for tricks and shorter turns. They’re ideal for beginners or those wanting to play in the snow parks. Conversely, longer blades, reaching up to 90 cm, provide stability and speed for those who prefer swift downhill adventures or teaching others. Width affects stability too, with narrower blades allowing sharper turns and wider ones offering better balance on various terrains. Finding the sweet spot that matches your skiing style and skill level ensures a more enjoyable experience on the slopes.
Binding Compatibility and Features
Bindings are the crucial link between you and your ski blades. Non-releasable bindings, commonly found on many ski blades, offer simplicity and reduce the hassle of frequent adjustments. They’re generally more secure but may not release during a fall which some might find risky. Some models incorporate adjustable bindings like the GC-201 to accommodate different boot sizes smoothly. Check that bindings are compatible with your boots, and research if adjustments are easy. Choosing ski blades with the right binding features ensures safety, comfort, and frustration-free fun on snow-filled escapades.
Skill Level and Intended Use
Ski blades cater to various skill levels and uses, from casual snow fun to competitive sports. Beginners will find shorter, lightweight ski blades with metal edges beneficial for their easier control and accessibility. More advanced users looking for adrenaline-packed experiences might prefer longer skis designed for speed and sharp turns. Recreational skiers may enjoy versatile ski blades like Snowfeet, offering playful rides for all members of the family. Identifying your skill level and intended use ensures you select ski blades that align with your winter activity goals, maximising both learning and enjoyment.
Weight Limitations and Durability
Considering the weight limitations of ski blades is vital for safety and performance. Different blades support various weight ranges, so make sure to match it with your body weight before hitting the slopes. Lightweight models like Skiskates are crafted for nimbleness but remember that durability is crucial too. Look for ski blades with sturdy constructions, such as wood cores or metal edges, which provide resilience against everyday wear and tear. Scratch-resistant surfaces, like those on the GPO SnowBlade SnowSkate, further enhance longevity. Choosing between lighter builds for agility and sturdier designs for longevity is key to purchasing ski blades that stand up to your winter sport enthusiasm year after year.
Benefits of Using Ski Blades
Improved Maneuverability
Ski blades offer exceptional manoeuvrability with their compact and lightweight design. Their shorter length, compared to traditional skis, makes turning effortless, ideal for complex terrains like moguls. They feature metal edges, so edge control is precise and responsive, letting you navigate tricky slopes with ease. Whether you’re skiing tight forest trails or crowded resort pistes, ski blades provide agility that enhances your confidence and control. This manoeuvrability makes them an appealing choice for advanced skiers seeking to hone their skills and beginners keen on gaining confidence in their snow adventures. Thanks to their nimbleness, ski blades can transform any skier’s experience by allowing intuitive and fluid movement across various snow conditions.
Learning to Ski Quickly
Ski blades make learning a breeze, especially if you’re new to the sport. Their shorter size and lighter weight reduce the intimidation often felt with full-length skis. Beginners find ski blades offer a forgiving learning curve with easier control and quick mastery of basic techniques. This simplified approach is invaluable for establishing foundational skiing skills and boosting motivation. Instructors often prefer ski blades for novices due to their easy handling, enabling learners to progress through lessons swiftly. The enhanced edge control and stability allow beginners to focus on perfecting balance and posture without feeling overwhelmed by complex manoeuvres. For those eager to get onto the slopes and develop their skills rapidly, ski blades are an excellent starting point.
Fun and Unique Experience on the Slopes
Ski blades promise an exhilarating experience and unforgettable fun on the slopes. Their versatility lets users perform spins, jumps, and tricks, turning any descent into an exciting ride. The ability to ride backwards offers a novel twist to traditional skiing, encouraging exploration of creative moves. Ski blades also invite enthusiasts of all ages to engage in thrilling snow pass times, whether at snow parks or casual resorts. This distinctive approach adds a sense of adventure and excitement to standard skiing, breaking the monotony of routine runs. Their capacity for unique trick performances makes ski blades a favourite pick for thrill-seekers looking to inject some flair into their journeys down the mountain. Whether it’s solo fun or a new way to bond with friends and family, ski blades redefine the joy of skiing.
Related FAQs
What Are Ski Blades and How Do They Differ from Regular Skis?
Ski blades, often called skiboards or snowblades, are shorter than regular skis, typically ranging from 60 to 100 cm in length. Unlike traditional skis, their compact size enhances agility, allowing for quick turns and easy manoeuvres, making them less intimidating for newcomers. Regular skis offer improved stability at high speeds and on deeper snow. Ski blades feature metal edges for precise control, focusing primarily on fun and versatility rather than competition or high-speed terrain. They’re ideal for groomed trails, park tricks, and tight spaces. Ski blades’ lightweight design makes them convenient for carrying and storing, adding to their appeal as a versatile alternative to conventional skiing equipment.
Are Ski Blades Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, ski blades can be a great choice for beginners. Their short length and lightweight nature reduce the learning curve, making it easier to control and balance, especially on groomed slopes. They accommodate a wide range of boot sizes, simplifying the fitting process. Beginners can swiftly pick up basic techniques and gain confidence, performing simple spins and tricks without the complexity of managing long skis. While non-releasable bindings on some models may be challenging during falls, they also encourage proper form by promoting balance. Ski blades offer a fun introduction to the world of skiing, providing an accessible, enjoyable experience for recreational users and novices alike.
How Do You Choose the Right Size of Ski Blades?
Choosing the correct size of ski blades depends on the user’s height, weight, and skill level. Shorter ski blades, typically around 60-70 cm, are suitable for lighter or less experienced users, offering easier control and manoeuvrability. Heavier or more advanced skiers may prefer longer models, from 80 to 100 cm, for added stability at higher speeds. Checking manufacturer specifications helps ensure compatibility with your boot size and intended use. It’s essential to consider personal comfort and the type of terrain you’ll be navigating. For beginners or versatile all-mountain exploration, erring on the side of shorter blades is beneficial, providing enhanced agility and ease of use.
Can You Use Ski Blades on Any Terrain?
Ski blades work best on groomed slopes, hard-packed snow, and in terrain parks. While their design supports various tricks and manoeuvres, they perform less effectively in powder or deep snow due to limited surface area. Ski blades excel in controlled environments, offering fun on narrow trails or for quick jaunts down the piste. Although they’re highly manoeuvrable, challenging terrains such as moguls or icy surfaces can pose difficulties, lacking the stability of longer skis. Short skis’ versatility makes them suited for casual users seeking excitement, yet they should complement skiing activities rather than replace traditional skis in all environments.
Final Recommendations for Choosing the Best Ski Blades
Selecting the right ski blades can transform your winter sports experience. For families, Snowfeet’s versatile mini skis are a great choice, offering fun for both adults and children. If you’re seeking a complete kit with easy adjustments, the GPO SnowBlade SnowSkate is ideal, combining durability with dynamic performance.
For those focused on speed and agility, the GPO Snowblade Racing Figl offers innovative carving technology, perfect for competitive racing. Skiskates are a fantastic option for thrill-seekers, providing the freedom to perform tricks and navigate narrow trails with ease.
Beginners will appreciate the lightweight 65 cm Snowfeet skiboards, which allow for smooth spins and tricks. Meanwhile, Snowfeet’s 90 cm ski blades cater to both novices and seasoned skiers, offering stability and the ability to perform jumps and spins.
Consider your skill level, intended use, and desired features to find the perfect ski blades for your snowy adventures.
Founder of Snowbistro, I’m an ex-seasonaire (Whistler 05/06) and internet marketer who rides & resides in the mountains of Slovakia
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