Cross-country skiers skip the downhill slopes in favor of wooded trails and backcountry touring. Skate skis offer cross-country fans the opportunity to increase speed with short, lightweight versions of traditional touring skis. These skis are suitable for exercise or recreational purposes and use techniques similar to ice skating.
Step 1
Calculate the correct length for your skate skis based on your height. Multiply your height in inches times 2.54 to convert your height to centimeters. According to the Appalachian Mountain Club, beginners should choose skate skis 5 to 10 cm shorter than their height, while more advanced users can choose skis equal to their height. Once you've perfected your technique, consider skis 10 to 15 cm longer than your height to maximize performance and speed.
Step 2
Refine your search based on your weight and build. Each ski manufacturer provides a recommended ski length chart based on the user's weight. The sales team at a sporting goods store can provide you with this information. If your weight falls above the recommended range for the skis you're considering, choose a longer model so you can "float" over the snow more effectively. If your weight falls below the recommended range, choose a slightly shorter model for better control and more effective pushes. USA Today recommends skis no more than 5 cm above or below the length recommended for your height.
Step 3
Check the base of each ski to determine maintenance requirements. Skate skis often feature a waxless design, which includes a built-in grip pad in the center of each ski for traction. Waxable skis don't include this pad and must be waxed before each use to provide adequate grip. According to USA Today, waxable skis provide the highest level of performance, while waxless skis reduce maintenance requirements so you can hit the slopes more quickly.
Step 4
Choose the width of your skis based on where you plan to use them. Narrow skis provide a faster ride, while wider skis increase stability and make it easier to push. Choose narrow skate skis for groomed trails and tracks or wider skate skis for ungroomed snow and backcountry trails.
Step 5
Select skis with the appropriate amount of flex, or camber, for your skill level. According to Backcountry.com, flexible skis provide more power for advanced users, while stiffer models help beginners maintain control and proper technique. The Skinny Skis Co. recommends that advanced skiers multiply their weight in pounds by 0.55, then divide by 2.2 to find flex rating in kilos. For example, a 150-lb. skier with advanced skills requires 37 kilos of flex. Beginners, who require less flex than advanced skiers, should multiply their weight by 0.50, then divide by 2.2.
Member Comments
MadSchuss August 12
"Skate skis often feature a waxless design, which includes a built-in grip pad in the center of each ski for traction. Waxable skis don't include this pad and must be waxed before each use to provide adequate grip. "
Skating skis DO NOT have base patterns; they're made to glide, not grip. The author knows little - or nothing - about the sport, and really had no business writing this piece. Fact checking? Non-existent. Embarrassing.