Selecting Cross Country Skis

Skiing is becoming a popular social networking activity as reported by The New York Times in the Feb. 20, 2009 article ("Valet? Set by the Fire? Join the Club"). In America alone there are more than 20 private ski clubs. Cross country skiing allows organizations, clubs, families and friends to explore nature while gaining excellent cardiovascular and muscle exercise. You can ski for recreation or to compete professionally. Regardless of the reason, the proper skis can improve the ease and comfort of a cross country trek.

  1. Back country Skis

    • Madshus Voss MG back country skis are designed with a partial three-quarter inch metal edge which allows for added control while trekking across country. Triaxial caps give the skis a smooth glide and durability. The skis have a 60-50-55 side cut and have an adjustable length of 180 centimeters to 210 centimeters. The skis cost approximately $200, but can be purchased on sale at specialty shops like Skinny Skis for nearly half that price.

    Combi Skis

    • Atomic Pro Skate Combi skis incorporate semi-beta technology in their design. The skis' light core and 3000 race base makes the equipment excellent for recreational and athletic skiers. The skis come in 178 and 184 centimeter lengths and cost about $180.

      Fischer SC Combi skis have a world cup pro base, a power edge and a quality finish. The skis are constructed with an Air Technology design and are 172 centimeters long. You can purchase a pair for about $150.

    Classic Skis

    • Fischer, Atomic Beta and Valtonen manufacture quality classic skis like the Pro Classic G2, the RCS Classic Plus and the Vasa Race Classic. The Atomic Pro Classic G2 NoWax skis are built using grip and glide technology. The skis are designed to allow for maximum push-off speed and power at the start of a cross country trek or race. With a high densolite core and a length of 182 centimeters, the skis cost about $140.

      Fischer's RSC Classic Plus is 170 centimeters long and built for young skiers who weigh between 80-92 pounds. The plus version of the skis has an air core, a fast-base structure, an 812 camber that separate the kick and glide phase. You can purchase the skis for a little over $100.

      Atomic Vasa Race Classic skis have a 44-42-44 side cut and come in sizes 196 centimeters to 201 centimeters. The skis are created with Mexcell material to allow for sidewall to sidewall layers of top quality densolite. With a BI 5000 rated base, the skis cost approximately $330.

    Ski Packages

    • Cross country ski packages are available in children's race, groomed trail and back country types. The packages include skis, boots, grip and poles. The gear is available from major manufacturers and specialty shops like Akers Ski and Skinny Skis. The packages allow you to purchase the bulk of your large ski equipment needs at a reduced price. For example, the Salomon Vitane package for women cost about $300. Some packages like the Fischer NC Jupiter cost under $250 for skis, boots, poles and mounted bindings. Children's packages cost less than $100 for skis, boots and poles.

    Considerations

    • The Central Cross Country Ski Association, British Columbia Masters Cross Country Ski Association and the Cross Country Ski Areas Association are a few of the professional organizations that host races, operate as regional governing bodies and provide training to novices. The Pennsylvania Cross Country Skiers Association provides weather reports, information on lodging, new trail clearings and clothing and equipment other members are selling.