CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING 101

Cross-country skiing! Ever heard of it? Maybe you have, maybe you haven't, either way, maybe now you're curious. I hate to burst the very first bubble, but no, this does not entail hauling yourself across the country via skis (although, it would be fascinating to watch someone try). Cross-country skiing can be a wonderful way to keep up fitness and explore the outdoors in the winter if downhill sports aren't for you. Even if downhill skiing and snowboarding have been your go-to for years, maybe you're looking to change it up. Well, this just might be what you're looking for. This sport can be far less taxing on your joints and is a much lower dollar of entry which we all can appreciate. Did we mention no lift ticket, line, or wait to get on the trails....yeah...pretty sweet if you ask us. Keep on reading to hear more!

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TWO TYPES

There are two styles that exist within the Cross-country (XC) skiing world – Classic and skate. Here, we'll give a brief and basic understanding of the two styles. Skate Skiing (pictured on the upper portion of the image) is the more aerobic option of the styles and certainly demands a little more finesse. In this style, you'll be using a skating motion (as the name implies) to move over the terrain. if you can imagine the motions of ice skating but instead of ice skates, you're using poles and somehow managing not to face plant while maneuvering skinny skis, that's it. You'll be moving much faster uphill and downhill once you get the hang of it, and your skis will generally be smooth throughout the base to assist in the skating motion. Classic XC Skiing utilizes a different style of ski than skate. Classic skis have a scale-like texture in the center of the underside of the ski (directly under where your foot sits). These scales allow you to grip the snow and glide forward which is the primary motion performed in classic XC skiing.

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GEAR

Unlike the multi-pocketed jackets and large pieces of protection required for downhill skiing, XC typically requires just a few things. But, before we get into it, please consider renting these items or buying them used from Geartrade. gear will typically always be the priciest piece of any outdoor activity, and buying used/renting is a great way to try things out with a lower risk attached (it's also a hell of a lot better for the environment you're using to do these activities.) Plus, if worst comes to worst, you can send it right back to us at Geartrade! 1. Skis/Bindings: These will most likely be the most expensive thing you buy for the activity. Whether it be classic or skate, you will also need bindings to help you attach your boots to the ski. 2. Boots: XC Boots will look a little different than the downhill ones you're most likely used to seeing. These come with only one point of attachment on the toe and have a low-profile design. Boots will be specific to a style of binding, but the most recent models are all up to speed, so it's not something you'll have to worry about too much. 3. Poles: Now, there are specific XC ski poles that you can find linked here, but if you cannot find a pair that fits you, you can 100% use hiking/trekking poles. 4. Clothing and Accessories: For XC skiing, you'll generally want some midweight-lightweight baselayers underneath some sort of wind-proof vest/jacket. this really depends on how quickly you work up a sweat. You are constantly exerting energy whether you go classic or skate, so bear that in mind while choosing your wardrobe. As far as bottoms go, some insulated leggings or softshell pants + long johns will do you just fine. Gloves or convertible mittens will also be key as your hands are constantly exposed holding onto the poles, and any other smaller items like hats or ear warmers will keep you happy and outside longer. Finally, please bring sunglasses. Goggles are not necessary for XC skiing unless you're going for the gold or gaining monster speed. For the rest of us, a good pair of sunnies will do wonders for wind irritation and sun reflection off snow.

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As with any new activity, jumping in on a lesson or having a good pal show you the ropes will make the learning curve far less steep and ultimately, more enjoyable. We hope this mini guide to XC skiing has helped debunk any concern you may have had seeing all those folks out on flat trails with skis. Have fun, pray for snow, and be safe – we'll see you out there!