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From the skis themselves to the bindings and the boots, cross country skiing requires a lot of specialized equipment. In this case, we're concerned with the boots. There's not too much to know when choosing a boot for cross skiing (XC skiing for short); presumably you know what kind of XC skiing you prefer to do, so let us help you choose from some popular, top selling boots. Remember, your boots and bindings must be matched to the type of skis you use; this is directly related to the type of skiing you do.
The most widely used binding system today is the clip-in. In this system, there is a toe bar that clips into the binding while your heel remains free. For touring, there are three basic types of binding that your skis could have--traditional three pin, New Nordic Norm (NNN) or Salomon Nordic System (SNS).
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Classic If you stick to trails and groomed surfaces or use a track, then you will want a light, soft, responsive classic cross country skiing boot |
Skate Skating boots |
Combination Combi boots |
Touring For going off the beaten path, opt for a heavy-duty touring boot |
Make sure to buy a boot that fits and doesn't pinch or rub in any way. Minuscule discomforts can become big problems after hours on the trail. Luckily, modern boots take this into account, and are built with plenty of super soft lining.
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Alpina Blazer Cross Country Ski Boots 2011 A stable touring boot that's comfortable. Featuring a traditional. three point 75 mm touring sole, yet all the comforts of a modern boot. |
Another touring boot, this one geared toward the beginner-intermediate range. Features X2 heel locks for added control and nylon and metal-reinforced midsoles for added comfort. |
Alpina T10 Nordic Cross-Country Ski Boots for NNN Bindings These boots have anatomic footbeds and Thinsulate insulation for added comfort. Plastic hinged cuffs and heel counters add extra stiffness and control. |
Salomon Escape 9 Pilot CF Boot The added control the SNS compatibility adds make these boots ideal for both touring and classic skiing. And the hook and loop adjustable cuffs make for quick lacing. |
Women love cross country skiing for its cardio benefits and social atmosphere. And for the sheer physical challenge. It's important for women to purchase boots built for them; their center of mass differs from that of men as does the size and width of their feet. Look for boots fit securely and reduce stress on the ankle and foot.
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Alpina Womens Eve 10T Nordic Cross-Country Ski Boots for NNN Bindings A very convenient ski boot, with a center zip tongue cover and an internal speed lace system. This features help make them warm, secure and responsive while touring. |
Salomon Siam 7 Pilot CF Ski Boot - Women's These SNS Pilot compatible boots can go from groomed tracks to open terrain with ease, thanks to their excellent flex and superior stability. Their thermo-bond zip closure helps keep things warm too. |
Alpina Womens Eve 30T Nordic Cross-Country Ski Boots for NNN Bindings The 2011 model offers a snug fit and the kind of top-notch insulation seen in the 10T version. Plus, it's just so stylish! Another in and out of the tracks boot. |
Atomic Ashera 30 Classic/Combi Boot - Women's Another fairly straight-forward boot that provides a good, close fit. especially around the ankles. Meant more for track skiing, they can also handle a little light touring as well. |
Above all, pay attention to comfort. The boot should not slip around at all, and fit like a comfortable pair of hiking boots. Keep in mind that your foot will swell with activity, and your ski sock will also effect the boot's fit. Always try on the boots with the socks you plan to use while skiing and try to fit the boots after you have exercised a bit to simulate the same swelling that occurs.
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