Cross country skiing -- commonly referred to as XC or Nordic skiing -- is an ancient sport characterized by alternating full body movements over snow covered landscapes and trails. Equipment needed for cross country skiing includes the skis, bindings, boots and poles, but the equipment can be chosen based on intended activities. For example, choosing cross country skis for camping needs to consider the terrain and size of the ski. According to Backcountry.com, the best cross country skis for camping and skiing off trails are backcountry...
Ski experts and enthusiasts consider Norwegian-born Stein Eriksen the first modern skiing megastar. After training to ski at an early age, Eriksen competed successfully in the 1952 Olympic Winter Games and numerous World Champi...
In 6000 B.C., the word "ski" was first used in Finland. Throughout history, skiing was used as a mode of transportation, as rudimentary skis were found in various countries including Norway, Russia and Sweden. Skis are still us...
The elliptical is a cardiovascular machine that also is known as a cross-trainer. The movement required to operate this cardio machine is a combination of walking, stair stepping and cross-country skiing. Ellipticals have two f...
Skiing is a full body exercise. It increases circulation, oxygenation, muscle tone, benefits the heart and reduces weight. So, where does a tall woman find stylish, warm, cozy, comfortable ski pants? Think Eddie Bauer, a leadi...
K2's All-Mountain range caters to skiers of both sexes and of all abilities. Men's models form the All Mountain Performance series, and include the Charger, Rictor, Shockwave, Photon and Force. The T:Nine series offers female-s...
Skate skiing was developed in the 1970s by Finnish cross-country racer Pauli Siitonen as a way to make up time after losing his grip wax during races. When Americans Bill Koch and Doug Peterson realized they couldn't catch Siit...
Hitting the slopes can be invigorating, challenging, relaxing and fun. Skiing is also a sure-fire way to get some fresh air in the depths of winter. But, it's wise to check with the ski resort before you pack your gloves and go...
Backcountry skiers boldly go where no other skier has laid his tracks. They forgo the lifts in favor of earning their ski turns by climbing the slopes. These adventurers require a special type of ski. It must have adequate flo...
Sub-zero temperatures, high winds and wet conditions can put a damper on a ski vacation. The right ski apparel helps you stay warm, dry and able to move against the wind in even the worst conditions. Ski suits are available in ...
Your ski outfit can make or break your ski outing, but you don't have to spend a lot of money to put together something that's fashionable and practical. Start with simple layers. Make sure you have enough room to move and brea...
These days, dressing warmly doesn't necessarily mean looking like a marshmallow. Ski parkas are a great way to stay warm, on or off the mountain, without the heavy, not-so-cute bulk. Whether you are looking for durability, flex...
Thermal underwear, also called the base layer or performance underwear, is composed of a fast drying fabric. These synthetic, wool or silk undergarments keep you warm and dry by drawing perspiration away from your skin.
Skiers who like to carry extra clothing and snacks on long treks face a dilemma. They can either over stuff their pockets, which cause broken zippers, or carry a ski backpack. Backcountry skiers, who require shovels, avalanche ...
While splashing around in a pool or jumping waves at the beach is fun, hanging on to the back of a boat in an inner tube as it coasts, bumps and flies through the surf is even more exciting. When you are doing this activity, yo...
The low-impact workout provided by these machines can effective work your legs and arms in movements that mimic sports such as cross-country skiing. To get the best workouts from elliptical machines, engage more body parts and ...
While cheap and luxury hotels, condos and bed and breakfasts are plentiful at ski resorts, the ski condo provides an iconic winter vacation experience. Cabin lodging invokes images of friends, families or lovers sitting by the ...
After long johns or leggings plus an insulating layer, ski pants are typically the last layer you put on before heading out to the slopes. Your ski pants must be large enough to cover the other layers comfortably. They should p...
The wind whipping in your face might be okay during a summer bike ride, but it loses some of its appeal when you're barreling downhill on a pair of snow skis in the winter. Ski masks come to the rescue. The best ski mask for yo...
You'll travel thousands of miles getting to Alaska, and getting home. Along the way, you'll drive hundreds of miles of deserted highways with no cross-roads or villages to break the monotony of the roads -- not always highways ...
Trick skis are designed to allow fast movement with lots of turns, jumps and bumps. Trick skis are often shorter than traditional skis and may even be wider as well. The best trick skis allow for customization around the foot b...
The primary advantage of ski mittens over gloves is that mittens offer more warmth. Look for a pair that is fully insulated with Primaloft, Thinsulate, or another heavy synthetic or natural insulation. Mittens with liners let y...
California has more to offer health-conscious families seeking activity-filled vacations than sunny beaches. Skiing is great exercise and can be fun for the whole family under the right conditions. There are five major snow des...
Skiers and snowboarders know that occasionally you can get lucky with a wonderful combination of weather conditions that let you put aside your goggles and jacket. On sunny days, it is easy to forget your eyes are in for some o...
Sugarbush Resort in Warren, Vermont, is one of the premier skiing destinations in New England. The resort occupies more than 4,000 acres with 578 acres of skiable terrain. With more than 111 trails, there are plenty of skiing o...
