How long should my cross country skis be?

To calculate the length of your classic cross-country skis you should add 15 to 20cm to your height. Your weight and skiing ability should also be taken into account.

Is it better to have longer or shorter cross country skis?

If several lengths are given, the longer length always applies to the more experienced skier while the shorter length is better for a less experienced skier.

Does the length of cross country skis matter?

Ski length for beginners

A good guideline for a typical all-around beginner's ski, which would be a wise choice for a new skier, is height minus 5-10cm. When in doubt, a slightly shorter ski is the right decision. The extra control and maneuverability are well worth the stability at speed you may sacrifice.

Can you skate ski on ungroomed trails?

Classic skiing can be done on the groomed trails or in the backcountry, making your own tracks. You can travel on narrow hiking trials or in wide-open fields. You can travel through shallow or deep snow, though deep snow may be more of an effort, but that's why you bring friends to share the effort of breaking trail.

Are NNN and SNS bindings the same?

They are different. NNN system has two parts and two ridges. SNS system has one basic ridge.

How long should my cross-country ski poles be?

For classic cross-country skiing they should come up to shoulder height or you can use this formula: your height in cm x 0.83. If your ideal pole length is between two sizes, we advise you to choose the longer of the two.

How tall should kids cross-country skis be?

Cross-country skis for kids are available in lengths between 110 and 170 cm. In case of doubt, it is always better to choose a slightly shorter version - especially if the child still stands at the beginning of his cross-country skiing career and has to get used to it first.

How do you determine ski size?

The length of your ski depends on your height, weight, skiing style & ability. There isn't an exact formula for determining the right size but in general the proper ski length should be between your chin and the top of your head. For example, a skier that is 6' tall will want to look for a skis between 170 - 190 cm.

Can you downhill ski with cross-country skis?

Skiing downhill on cross country skis is challenging. New skiers are intimidated and concerned. Even experienced skiers may struggle to ski the downhills to the best of their ability.

Does weight matter for cross-country skis?

Ski length

Choosing the right size cross-country ski is critical, but luckily it's also pretty straightforward. Your weight and skill level are the two main factors to consider when it comes to the cross-country ski length. For any given ski, the stiffness of the camber increases as you go up in length.

How do you size cross-country ski boots?

Cross country boots are made in European sizes, so you'll need to figure out what European size you wear your hiking boots or trail running shoes in and start there. So if you wear a European size 40 shoe, start by trying on a size 40 ski boot.

What is classic cross-country skiing?

Classic skiing is the original form of cross-country skiing. Skiers ski in preset tracks made by groomers using a technique we call diagonal stride to propel themselves forward. With the skis in the track, the skier puts their weight on one ski, pushes off, and glides on the other ski. Then repeat!

Does weight matter for skate skis?

Weight is the most important because you have to be heavy enough to get grip on the snow when you transfer your weight, but light enough for the grip area of the ski to stay mostly off the snow when you glide.

How do I choose cross-country skis?

To choose your cross-country skate skis you need to:

1. Find the right length ski, taking into account your weight.
2. Choose skis adapted to your technical ability and goals.
3. Make sure you choose skate bindings and boots that are compatible with each other.

How do I know if my skis are Waxless?

If you have a Waxless ski, then your Grip Wax Pocket will have a textured surface- looking almost like fish scales. Waxless skis do not require Grip Wax, but still would benefit from Glide Wax.

How tall should classic cross-country ski poles be?

Classic: For the Classic style, the pole should finish at the height of the shoulder knowing that this is equivalent on average to the height of the person minus 30 cm or the height multiplied by 0.84. Touring: For Touring, the pole should finish below the shoulder.

What is the most common cross country ski binding?

The most popular type of cross-country ski bindings is considered to be the NNN ski bindings. This is the reason why it is used in most of the rental skis in ski touring centers. Even the SNS-producer Salomon came up with an NNN compatible binding, the Prolink.

Is NNN or SNS more common?

NNN bindings are more popular than SNS bindings these days, though both are used by pros and beginners alike. These attach to your boot via a metal rod at the toe and have two ridges making them compatible only with NNN boots.

Should you lubricate ski bindings?

Modern bindings are not designed to be relubed, and do not need it providing that you treat them decently. However the heel track & the AFD (if it's a sliding one) should be lubed with a silicone lube approx every 30 days of use.