Guide to Purchasing Cross Country Skis

Welcome to our cross country skis purchasing guide. Deciphering the terminology around cross country skis can be challenging, but fret not – we've made the basics simpler for you. With our guide, selecting the ideal cross country ski is straightforward.​​​​​​

When acquiring your first or a fresh pair of cross country skis, focusing on several crucial aspects is vital. Firstly, our cross country specialist, Christian, suggests contemplating these three queries:

1. How would you describe your skiing style? (Leisurely or performance-driven)
2. Where do you wish to ski? (On trails or off trails)
3. What are your weight and height? (Determining the length of nordic skis)

If you are already clear on these questions, navigating our complete range of cross country skis will easily help you find the right pair. Just ensure your selection matches the details available in the size guide we offer for every model in our assortment.

For a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of selecting cross country skis, we'll walk you through the topics below:

• Cross Country Ski Sizing
• Cross Country Ski Varieties
• Cross Country Ski Camber

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Cross Country Ski Sizing – What Size Cross Country Skis Should I Choose?

Many skiers seek advice on finding the appropriate length (or size) for cross country skis. However, the user's weight is just as critical as the ski's length. We offer a model-specific size chart for each ski we sell, allowing you to find the model that aligns with your height and weight.

The following size charts for cross-country skis present straightforward calculations to assist you in identifying the right ski size.

Additional tips for cross country ski length and weight:

• Proficient skiers often opt for the longer side of the spectrum
• Newcomers are better off selecting models from the shorter side of the range
• If you weigh less than others of your height, pick a ski from the shorter spectrum
• If your weight exceeds that of most people of your height, choose a ski from the longer side of the spectrum

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Cross Country Ski Varieties – Classic vs Skate Skiing

As you embark on your cross country skiing journey, distinction between classic and skate skis is among the initial differences to note. These primary categories cater to differing skiing styles and demand distinct ski types. Let's delve into each ski type, before elaborating on cross country ski attributes.

CLASSIC CROSS COUNTRY SKIS

Classic cross country skis are tailored for traditional skiing methods, where skiers propel themselves forward by kicking back and gliding. These skis include a kick zone beneath that ensures traction on snow. Achieving traction in the kick zone can be done with fish-scales, kick wax, or cross country skins.

Skin skis, sometimes known as waxless skis, don't require kick zone wax, though this can be misleading as skin skis still need glide wax on the glide zones. Waxless skis are well-liked for their impressive performance and ease. With waxless skis, you avoid the trouble of removing and applying kick wax, saving both time and money on waxing equipment. Nonetheless, waxing skis are esteemed by enthusiasts prioritising the precise tuning of their skis' grip and glide zones to suit specific skiing conditions.

Classic skis possess stability, making them ideal for beginners and easy to use on groomed trails. Be it your initial foray into cross country skiing or a leisurely trail outing, classic skis fit the bill. Performance-driven and competitive models are available for skiers desiring enhanced speed, agility, and precision on trails.

Explore our range of Classic Cross Country Skis.

SKATE SKIS

Skate skis support the skate technique, which is marked by a sideways movement akin to ice or inline skating. These skis have a flat, narrow profile for efficient gliding and powerful strides. Lacking the kick zone found in classic skis, skate skis achieve motion by pushing off at an angle in a lateral motion. Essentially: they offer extended glide with no kick zone.

Skate skiing typically takes place on smooth, groomed trails rather than classic tracks. In comparison to classic skiing, skate skiing involves more complex lateral movements, making it less beginner-friendly.

Check out our collection of Cross Country Skating Skis.

BACKCOUNTRY CROSS COUNTRY SKIS

Backcountry cross country skis are crafted for travelling longer or shorter distances in the backcountry, generally having a broader design, which is ideal for skiing outside established tracks. These skis excel in varying terrains and snow conditions, from soft powder to hard or icy surfaces.

The broader design ensures better flotation by dispersing body weight over a larger area and reducing the likelihood of sinking into the snow. Backcountry skis feature kick zones for uphill climbs and come in both waxed and waxless varieties. Numerous backcountry skis have steel edges, enhancing grip on icy snow and improving control and stability during descents.

Discover our collection of Backcountry Cross Country Skis.

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Cross Country Ski Camber & Flex

Camber is the upward arch along the ski's length when lying on a flat surface. A greater camber reduces the kick zone's impact on the ski's glide, allowing for a longer glide and increased speed.

High-camber skis offer increased responsiveness and speed, though at the expense of turnability. Such skis maintain contact with snow at both ends, complicating turns. Reducing camber centralises the pivot point, making turning easier.

Camber levels greatly affect ski traits, with the appropriate level dictated by both the skiing type and your expertise.

Typically, classic skis recommended for novices or leisure cross-country skiers have less pronounced camber. Skis intended for intermediate to advanced performers usually exhibit higher camber.

Skate skis possess less pronounced camber compared to classic ones, while maintaining enough curve to distribute the skier's weight evenly. The reduced camber aids lateral push-offs in skate skiing, boosting snow performance. Without a grip zone, reduced camber in skate skis does not impede their gliding speed.

CROSS COUNTRY SKI FLEX

Flex refers to the stiffness of a ski's camber, significantly influencing speed and turning traits. Softer flex reduces force needed for soft snow grip, easing turning. Conversely, stiffer flex may challenge turning in soft snow, favouring firm snow and high-speed use.

For most skiers, a deep dive into cross-country ski camber and flex intricacies isn't necessary. Selecting a ski aligning with your preferred skiing style, skill level, and weight/height generally suffices for a rewarding experience without overthinking technical nuances.

Should uncertainties remain regarding which cross country skis to purchase, feel free to contact us.