If you want to escape the crowded ski slopes and hefty lift fees, give cross country skiing a try. This type of skiing allows you to either break your own trail or ride on ones that have already been groomed. Cross country skiing is also the perfect way to explore the woods in wintertime and get off the beaten path. There are a variety of skies and brands to choose from.
Cross Country Skiing
Cross country skiing, an Olympic sport, uses skies that are long and narrow. This allows for an even distribution of weight, which propels the skier forward. The skier is fit to the skis based on her height and weight. The ski boot is attached to the bindings, which are lightweight and narrow. Skis are available in wax or waxless. Waxless skis are easier to maintain and possess a fish-scale pattern on the kickzone to provide grip. Wax skis are often preferred by racers, who tailor the wax to course temperatures and racing conditions for a faster gliding ski.
Classic Track and Skate Skis
Cross country skiing is also referred to as Nordic skiing. Several types of skis fall into this category, yet they are all considered cross country. Whereas cross country skiing with a classic track ski uses a technique of kicking and gliding through the snow with feet parallel, skate skiing uses a motion similar to rollerblading to propel the skier down the trail. This is typically a fast form of skiing on groomed trails, and these skis are shorter than a classic track ski.
Light Touring and Backcountry Ski
A light touring ski is one of the most popular for recreational use. This type doesn't require groomed trails and the skis have good stability over uneven terrain. Narrower tips help keep skiers above the snow, rather than sinking in. These can be used on groomed trails, but aren't as fast as a track or skate ski. For those who want to explore beyond the boundaries of their own backyard or golf course ski trails, then backcountry skis are for you. They are stable on downhills and have metal edges to help carve out your own trails in rough conditions. These skis can go just about anywhere. This rugged durability comes at a price, however, as these skis tend to be slower than track or skate ski.
Brands and Skis to Consider
There are many brands of cross country skis to choose from. According to REI, Rossignol's BC 125 Positrack Backcountry Skis are one of the store's higher rated backcountry skis. For a less aggressive skier, the Fischer Desire My Style Cross-Country Skis with Bindings for women also received high praise. Atomic and Alpina are also popular brands that make a variety of cross country skis.
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