How to Choose the Right Equipment for Cross-Country Skiing
Content created in partnership with Vifamagazine.ca, December 2020.
Cross-country skiing is an easy family activity that allows you to get out, move about and get some fresh air.
How To Pick Cross Country Skis
There are a couple different kinds:
- Training skis are shorter and narrower (especially used for skate skiing);
- Backcountry skis are wider to maneuver more easily in intense snow;
- Classic cross-country skis have parallel edges which are designed for touring on mechanically groomed trails. These kinds of skis work best for families.
Glide and Traction
Skis with scales (small notches) or skins fixed under the camber do not require waxing (or only glide wax, if necessary).
Length
In general, it is recommended to purchase skis that at least match the skier's height. Shorter skis are sometimes recommended to encourage faster learning, while the longer ones allow you to play on the flexibility of the camber.
How To Choose Cross-Country Ski Bindings
In this regard, two major families share the market: Prolink, developed by Salomon, and NNN (New Nordic Norm), from the Norwegian company Rotefella. Both are comparable in both quality and price, but each system has its own range of boots, which are incompatible and not interchangeable with competing manufacturers.
How To Choose Cross-Country Ski Boots
What's important here is comfort and the ability to keep feet warm. When testing in the store, be sure to choose a model that provides good foot support, but with a loose interior so as not to block blood circulation (which can lead to frostbite in cold weather).
How To Choose Cross-Country Ski Poles
They can be made of carbon (stiffer and lighter, but more expensive), aluminum (heavier, but strong), or fibreglass (lighter, but more fragile).
When deciding length, using tried-and-true formulas is often recommended: for example, traditional cross-country skiers simply multiply their height (in centimetres) by 0.84, or subtract about 40 centimetres from their total height.
For all the tips and tricks on choosing cross-country skiing equipment for you or your children, download the free Family Winter Sports Guide - The Complete Guide from Vifa Magazine. (French only). You can also find there ideas for travel destinations.
