Cross-Country Skis
Cross-country skiing is a great way to get exercise and fresh air during cold winter days. Also known as Nordic skiing, cross-country skiing can be a relaxed walk in the snow-covered part or a demanding sport that really works your major muscle groups and your cardiovascular system. It's a great workout in either case, but your level of activity will determine the kind of skis that are right for you.
If you have rented cross-country skis a few times and you've decided that you like the sport, it is probably worthwhile to invest in a pair of skis of your own. This will save you money in the long run, as a pair of skis will last for several seasons at least with good upkeep. Keep in mind that in addition to cross-country skis,  there are also telemark skis. Telemark skis look a bit like cross-country skis because of the similar binding but are generally used for telemarking, not cross-country.
When choosing new skis, you don't have to worry too much about brands and manufacturers. The market for skis is relatively small, so a few brands dominate. The majority of manufacturers produce an excellent product; the trick is in finding the right one for your personal skiing style and ability.
How to Buy the Right Skis
There are a few things to consider when buying new skis. However, do remember that snow condition as well as the skier's condition (physical health, ability, size, etc.) will play a part in how the skis react on any given day. So when hearing reviews on particular brands, take them with a grain of salt.
Blazing Trails: Where You Ski
There are two main terrain types for cross country skiing: smooth, groomed trails, or the less beaten path. - In-Track
- If you stick mainly to groomed tracks at Nordic ski centers, classic in-track skis are the best choice.
- Such skis are lightweight, fast, and flexible, making them fine for flats, but not recommended for hills.
- They are typically long and wide. Shorter, wider skis are also available, and such skis will provide more stability.
- They allow you to ski in both classic and diagonal skiing styles.
- Skating skis, which are shorter, lighter, and faster are best for racing on groomed trails.
- Versatile and fast, but not the best for climbing hills.
- Generally, these are geared towards enthusiasts and professionals because of their high performance quality.
- These skis allow skiing in a V, much like the way an ice skater moves.
- Off-Track
- Touring skis are commonly used for off-track skiing, which is why they are also called off-track skis.
- This is the most intense style of Nordic skiing around because it is geared towards conquering the back country.
- These skis are heavier, wider, and shorter, which makes them better at maintaining stability and control in deep snow.
- They also give a better turning radius that is expected when you don't have to follow a track.
- With an angled edge, shaped similar to an all-mountain alpine ski, they can handle hills much better than their in-track counterparts.
Flex Power
Consider your weight and ability. There are three levels of ski flexibility: soft, moderate, and stiff. - The heavier you are the less flex you will need in your skis and vice versa. Likewise, if you are a very strong skier you will need a stiffer ski.
- This quick test will give you a good idea of how much flex is enough:
- Stand on the skis on a hard surface.
- When balanced on both feet you should be able to slide a piece of paper underneath the arch.
- When on one foot the paper should not be able to move.
- Some stores have devices that actually measure flex and pressure that easily calculates whether or not the flex is appropriate for your weight.
Wax On, Wax Off
There are two main types of ski to choose from: the waxing kind that are smooth on the bottom or the scaled kind that feature a special tread. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages. - Scaled, no wax skis are convenient because you don't have to wax them, but the scales can create some friction and slow the skier down on a straightaway while improving grip for going uphill. These are good for the beginner because they require no maintenance to use. They are also ideal for skiing in deep powder and on ungroomed trails. More advanced skiers will probably steer clear.
- The waxed kind need a different type of wax depending on the snow condition, the skier's ability, and the type of ski being used.
- A hot wax is used for classic and skate skis.
- A cold wax is used for touring skis.
Major Manufacturers
External Links- IfYouSki.com -- general buying advice for the cross-country enthusiast.
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