Cross Country Skis

Cross country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, can be a breathtaking experience--literally. Depending on what you are looking for, a cross country trip can be relaxing or a very demanding activity that really works your major muscle groups and your cardiovascular system. Cross country skiing originated in colder countries as a means of getting around or hunting, and has since evolved into a sport that is a great workout. It's definitely a work out, and it's a great way to enjoy nature in the winter, without necessarily propelling yourself down a slope.

The first step when starting out in this sport is investing in some cross country skis , or Nordic skis . The best thing about choosing new skis is that you don't have to worry so much about brands and manufacturers since the market is small, and the majority of cross country ski makers produce quality skis that any consumer can rely on. However, remember that snow conditions as well as the skier's condition (physical health, ability, size, etc.) will play a part in how the skis react on any given day. Keep those things in mind when checking out reviews on particular brands. 

Blazing Trails

There are two types of terrain for cross country skiing: smooth, groomed trails, or the less beaten path of the back country. See which skis are compatible for your preference.

In-Track Skis  If you stick mainly to groomed tracks at Nordic ski centers, classic in-track skis are the best choice. Lightweight, fast, and flexible, making them fine for flats, but not recommended for hills. They are typically long and wide. Shorter, wider skis are also available, providing more stability for beginners. They allow you to ski in both classic and diagonal skiing styles. Typically used on trails prepared with parallel grooves.	Skating Skis  Shorter, lighter, and faster, these are best for racing on groomed trails. Versatile and fast, but not the best for climbing hills. These skis are shorter and more stiff. Waxless (see below for more information). Generally, these are geared towards enthusiasts and professionals because of their high performance quality. These skis allow for skiing in a"V" or angling the top edge outward, much like the way an ice skater moves.	Touring/Off Track Skis  This is the most intense style of Nordic skiing because it is geared towards conquering the back country. These skis are heavier, wider, and shorter, which makes them better at maintaining stability and control in deep snow. They give the better turning radius that is needed when you don't have to follow a track. With an angled edge, shaped similar to an all-mountain alpine ski, they can handle hills much better than their in-track counterparts.

Equipment

Cross country skis are long and thin, helping the skier move across flat terrain quickly. The poles are typically made out of aluminum or fiberglass and they have a disc or a basket at the end that is designed to provide grip in the snow. Below, some popular brands to consider.

Alpina  If you're looking for especially short skis, this is a great brand to buy. Comes with a waxless base and is designed for durability.	Fischer  These are good for intermediate skiers and are specifically designed for control and maneuverability.	Karhu  These are designed for any level of skier and provide extra grip and width for control.	K2  These skis come in a multitude of styles and feature specific designs for for men and women's body types. They will provide extra control on any terrain.	Salomon Snowscape 7  These skis have a stellar grip and help the skier to lightly glide with the aid of fiberglass and foam. The waxless base is good for climbing.

Flex Power

When it comes to the flex of your ski, consider your weight and ability. There are three levels of ski flexibility: soft ,moderate , and stiff . If you are a very strong skier, you may need a stiffer ski. Likewise, if you are a beginning or lighter skier, soft skis may be better for you. Remember, the skis should support you and be able to hold you in place so you aren't wriggling around. Some stores have devices that actually measure flex and pressure and easily calculates whether or not the flex is appropriate for your weight.

Wax On, Wax Off

There are two main types of ski to choose from: the kind that have smooth undersides and can be waxed or the scaled kind that feature a special tread. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages.

• Waxless Skis : These are convenient because, as the name suggests, you don't have to wax them. The scales tend to create some friction and slow the skier down on a straightaway but they will improve grip for going uphill. These are good for the beginner because they require no maintenance to use. They are also ideal for skiing in deep powder and on ungroomed trails.

• Ski Wax : There are three types of wax that can be used on skis.
• Glide Wax : As the name suggests, this makes the skis glide faster and is formed in blocks that can be ironed onto the ski.
• Kick Wax : This is only used on classic skis and is used to provide grip on the snow when weight is transferred. The wax ranges in in hardness depending on how cold your terrain may be.
• Klister Wax : This wax has the consistency of paste and is probably the most difficult to apply and take off of skis. Best used by experience skiers on older snow that has re-frozen.

Top Sellers

When it comes to skiing, downhill or cross country, you've to find the best fit for you. What works for an expert in Vermont won't work for a beginner in Colorado. Below are some popular skis that just might work for you, provided you take your experience level and trail preferences into account.

Black Diamond Stigma Skis (Fall 2009)   Available in varying lengths, these skis are versatile, capable of providing smooth turns and a fun ride down after a day spent mountaineering.	Alpina Discovery Back Country Nordic Cross-Country Skis  Light-weight back country skis that features steel edges for added off-trail stability. Their short, wide build provides excellent flotation too.	Alpina Control NIS Nordic Cross-Country Skis with Rottefella NNN NIS Easy Attachment Binding Plate  These waxless skis are perfect for beginners. They're lightweight and are just the right width to be used on soft snow or on set tracks.	Fischer SC Skatecut Skis  Good for gliding in most conditions, these are another light-weight set that should appeal to beginners and those looking to enjoy different types of cross country skiing.	Rossignol Evo Glade AR Ski  Waxless off-track skis that float and glide while remaining stable. Great for back country exploring, especially when dealing with different snow conditions--fresh snow, fresh snow on old snow, and so on.

Related Guides

Boots	Extreme Sports	Bindings	Ski Jackets	Snow Goggles