$149.95 $ 149. Our plan is to stay 2 or 3 nights and cross country ski and possibly snowshoe. The decision to buy new or used equipment is the second big decision you’ll face when buying cross-country skis. How? Fischer Classic Waxfree - Intermediate Cross Country Package, Fischer Nordic Backcountry Easy Skin - Ski Package, Fischer Nordic Backcountry Wax Free Easy Skin Ski Package. And high-end cross-country ski gear is relatively costly and requires you to be an exceptional skier in order to reap its benefits. Well, maybe his friend actually did know and was pulling his leg. I have some experience cross country skiing but I’ve never owned my own. That said, there’s nothing wrong with last year’s gear (assuming it’s still in some retailer’s inventory!). Kids Cross Country Ski Package w/Kid Beginner Ski Poles & Junior/Youth Cross Country Skis – Step-in Bindings for Any Boot – Nordic/Cross Country Skiing Training – Versatile Snow Skis for Kids 6–11. We’ve stripped away the fluff and confusion to make buying the best cross-country skis a much more straightforward process. Of course, there are also other options such as REI, Backcountry.com, etc. Kids Cross Country Ski Package w/Kid Beginner Ski Poles & Junior/Youth Cross Country Skis – Step-in Bindings for Any Boot – Nordic/Cross Country Skiing Training – Versatile Snow Skis for Kids 6–11. Hi! So even though I recommend doing this, I understand that it’s easier said than done. In the 2016/2017 season, a customer brought in a pair of used classic cross-country skis for me to evaluate. Norwegians are avid skiers, and they love nothing better than getting out into nature at the coldest time of the year. Top brands on sale from Alpina, Fischer and more. If applicable, add your boot size as a comment to your order. 5 Cross-Country Ski Tips for Beginners. When purchasing both skis and bindings from SkatePro, we mount your bindings for free. So, understand that there is no one set of cross-country skis that will accommodate all environments. Everything is designed to function optimally so long as it’s used within a recommended framework of conditions. Start on green trails: Most cross-country ski trail systems follow standard rating designations: green for beginner, blue for intermediate and black for expert. This is the demographic for whom I most often served while working in the outdoor recreation industry at Lake Tahoe. Thanks! “I’m new to cross-country skiing. This is a beginner cross country ski lesson plan for skate or classic skiers. Although, you can purchase an NNN BC (backcountry) version which features a longer and stronger bar (but isn’t compatible with NNN). However, you’re probably not going to be nearly as happy as having equipment that properly fits your body size and skill level. I try to use them in concert with one another. long, skinny skis with bases that feature a small to moderate-sized grip zone to accommodate grip wax or have a “fish scale” pattern, for use with classic cross-country skiing techniques such as the diagonal stride, double pole, double pole kick, herringbone, and sidestep, shorter, wider classic cross-country skis that feature bases with a longer and more aggressive fish scale patterned grip zone, as well as metal edges, for use with classic cross-country skiing techniques such as the diagonal stride, double pole, double pole kick, herringbone, sidestep, and Telemark turns, ideal for use in diverse land ranging from meadows and rolling hills to more mountainous terrain, for use with skate skiing techniques such as V1, V2, V2 alternate, diagonal skating, marathon skating, and double poling, ideal for skiing on the wide flat zone of groomed trails, can be used off-track for “crust skating” during spring conditions, The type of skis you choose should support the style of skiing you’ll be doing, and their size and length needs to be appropriate for your weight, The type of bindings you choose should correspond to the size of ski you’ll be using and support the type of skiing you’ll be performing, Your boots need to fit comfortably and be compatible with your bindings, The centimeter length of your classic ski poles should be about 83% of your height and your skate ski poles should measure from the ground to a point somewhere between your chin and nose. However, finding a shop near you that sells a variety of cross-country ski equipment can be hard to find. So much information! I’m not saying to make a hasty purchase. I find that these are the two most common reasons for people not having much success with cross-country skiing. As a beginner you will fall over, you cannot learn cross-country without a few bumps and bruises. He was a large man and his skis were massive in that they were not only really long, but excessively wide for use on groomed trails. Where would be an accessible (we have a 4WD SUV but no chains) place for us to ski and/or stay? Or, he should’ve purchased newer and skinnier classic skis in the first place which would’ve married better with the traditional bindings. As a cross-country ski instructor and xc rental shop employee, it’s my duty to know the answers to such questions. Avoid blue or black trails at first, because you’ll be more likely to fall on them, which isn’t a great outcome for you, nor for the faster, more experienced skiers who use those trails and who will have to ski … Thanks so much for the kind words, I really appreciate it 🙂 I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed the site! I haven’t done any teaching or guiding on my own near home since I don’t have a guiding permit (for use on public lands). The cross-country ski packages come with a pair of skis and compatible bindings, and for some packages, boots conveniently gathered into one affordable bundle. We’ve compiled a list of North America’s best resorts for first timers thanks to their specialized learning programs, state-of-the-art facilities, accessibility and unique beginner experiences. Don’t wait for cross-country ski gear to go on sale or for an end-of-season sale to purchase. Let me know if you have any other specific questions. And, trust me, retailers don’t want to store leftover winter gear all spring, summer, and fall (and then try to sell the old product the following year). If applicable, add your boot size as a comment to your order. Read this article for more info on binding systems (https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-country-skiing-explained-part-4-classic-cross-country-ski-bindings/). This is a good way to go if you don’t have anything. Daniel and Branka, Thanks so much for the kind words, and for reaching out 🙂. That said, I usually just recommend buying a new setup, particularly if you’re a novice skier and first time buyer of cross-country ski gear. We are both 60 and want to pick up a new sport we can continue for a very long time. So many questions. Rossignol R-Skin Evo XC 55 Action Cross Country Ski Package | 24% OFF. First Timers Discover – Ski or Snowboard: This package includes everything you need on your first day out on the slopes! We carrying everything you need to get started cross country skiing. Consider the type of skiing you will most often do and buy gear to meet that need. 4.4 out of … Cross-country skis and the gear that goes with the sport is similar to any other outdoor gear. So trying to shoehorn you into one brand or style of gear because I like it would be doing you a disservice. Yet, the shop still screwed it up and he wasn’t knowledgeable enough to realize the mistake. The other great advantage is that the components are guaranteed to work together and be right for your size and weight. If you can get some free gear from your long-lost uncle or grandparents, give it a whirl. Tahoe Trail Guide and its contributors are not liable for property loss or damage, personal injury, or death. Our complete cross country ski packages feature all of the cross country ski equipment you need to get out in the snow. Take care, and I look forward to hearing from you guys again! Shop online today, Free Shipping available Your article is super helpful! The only set with no boots included is the Skigo Classic Cross Country Kids ski Bundle. So in this article, while providing a general overview of cross-country skiing options, I offer a streamlined approach to deciding for yourself what gear would best serve you. Historically, classic cross-country bindings were simple: a small toe clamp would grab a bar under the toe of your boot and a rubber toe bumper provided a small amount of elasticity. They have 3 pronged bindings and I’m not sure how difficult it will be to find boots to match them or if changing the bindings is an option. After completing this course you will be ready to learn the skate or classic-specific cross country ski techniques. Cross-country skiing is the national pastime of Norway during the winter months. 95. He recently purchased the skis “used.”. Top ski resorts for beginners. Please note, however, that I make it a point not to offer specific brand or gear recommendations. The best beginner cross-country skis are flexible and lean toward a wider style for greater flotation and control. Although I encourage you to venture out of your comfort zone, you need to know your limits and when to turn back. Backcountry cross-country skis (2) work best on ungroomed terrain. Or, you could use backcountry skis on groomers, but you would probably won’t be able to use them in the standard classic tracks since this type of ski is generally too wide for them. By Lisa Jhung; If you're looking for a way to stay fit in the winter months, ... Skate skiing requires the skier to push off each ski in a V pattern, … Either way, the guy didn’t pay any money for them but they were essentially unusable. Skis, boots, bindings, poles and more. Per the Associates Program Operating Agreement I must disclose the following statement: “As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Buying Cross-Country Ski Gear, for Beginners (Part 1), Lots of whumping and collapsing in the Tahoe snowp. Your Online Resource for Hiking, Backpacking, Cross-Country Skiing, and Snowshoeing at Lake Tahoe. The biggest plus when buying a complete cross country ski package is, that you can be absolutely positive that all the parts fit and plays perfectly along with each other from day one. With skis, bindings, boots, and poles included, this cross country ski package provides everything you need to get out there onto the snowy trails. At its price point, definitely one of the best cross country ski packages available. Our list is filled with only the highest quality skis for cross-country use, whether … Take comfort that, in general, cross-country ski gear is very affordable compared to other winter sports. One of the best beginner and recreational ski packages available. We’re definitely going to be open, but due to Covid 19 we’ll be modifying our services to one degree or another. The cross-country ski manufacturing industry is the same as the rest of the outdoor recreation industry. His intention was to eventually buy a set of skate skis, too. All rights reserved.  This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Cross-country is simple to learn and takes just a few days to master. Keep in mind that if retailers had it their way, they’d gladly sell out of nearly all their winter product by January 1st. Read on the blog What to Wear When Cross Country Skiing. I’ve also been putting a lot of effort into my YouTube channel. Cross-country skiing is easy to learn as well as a great way to enjoy the scenery at your own pace. But once the gear is gone for the season, it’s gone. But, full disclosure, I work there 😉 I normally teach group lessons on Sundays at the resort. Shop a Wide Selection of Mens & Womens Cross Country Ski Packages - Best Selection, Lowest Prices, FREE SHIPPING. #5 Rossignol Evo XC 49 IFP Cross Country Skis with Bindings. He inherited them from a friend and said he couldn’t seem to get them to work. Period. Cross-country ski equipment packages contain cross-country skis, boots, binding and poles. Just know that dialing in the cross-country gear most appropriate for you will be a process of discovery. However, boots are something that you should actually wear, if possible, before buying. There are 350-plus cross country ski areas in the U.S. and Canada for you to explore. Hoping you receive and reply to this before I write too much! I believe you’ll be much happier with new gear. If you can’t make a special trip to visit them, you could always order through their website. I will say, however, before asking every possible question that you may have, read some of the articles I’ve already written in the Cross-Country Skiing Explained category (https://tahoetrailguide.com/tag/cross-country-skiing-explained/). Not sure where you’re at in Tahoe, but I live on the South Shore. They were most likely designed to be used with a three-pin binding system rather than a more contemporary and streamlined NNN or SNS bindings. Key Features: 157 cm skis suitable for skiers between 90 and 120 pounds; Laminated … So, understand that there’s no one set of cross-country skis that will accommodate all environments. Many stores, whether they be a physical or online shop, will offer package deals that include all four components of a cross-country ski setup. If cross-country skiing is your passion, you can ski to your heart’s content through some of Europe’s best – and most beautiful – domains, while beginners can learn at their own pace in relaxed surroundings. There’s a tool for every job and a job for every tool. Other than that, good luck in your decision and I’m glad you’re interested in cross-country skiing 🙂 It’s a super fun sport, art, and mode of travel! At the end of the day, relax in a charming hotel and savour delicious regional cuisine. He would’ve then had to buy a BC compatible boot, however, which would’ve made it impossible to use one boot for the two sets of skis. Also, his new bindings were way too small for the skis on which they were mounted. Great deals on cross country ski equipment with sales on cross country skis, boots, bindings, poles and more. Your safety is your responsibility. Yep, I’m always around. Hoping you are still on this site. And then check out some my YouTube channel (and subscribe if you don’t mind :)) as I also offer more information there (https://www.youtube.com/jaredmanninen). Who knows how much punishment those skis have taken? Enjoy nature with our wide selection of cross-country skis from top brands: Fischer, Rossignol, Salomon and more! Dressed in costume children and adults participated in the 24th annual Alley Loop cross country, Nordic ski race in on the main ... What to wear cross-country skiing. With origins as far back as 4000 BC in Scandinavia, as a means of travel, cross-country skiing has evolved into an Olympic sport and features two styles: skate skiing and classic. In other blogs about cross-country ski gear, I dive deeper into the four main components of a cross-country ski setup. Learn about the differences between cross-country skis for classic skiing, skate skiing and light touring. Mostly I’ve been cleaning up and editing my existing content. The options now differ in the number of attachment points to the boot, and how the binding attaches to the ski. Cross-country skis and the gear that goes with the sport is similar to any other outdoor gear. That’s one reason why I just try to encourage people to take lessons from me through Tahoe Donner Cross Country (on the north shore). Cross Country Ski Packages. I haven’t been publishing a lot of new stuff this past year. But, if you can find some inexpensive boots for them they could serve as your “rock” skis. I think the height is okay, but they are waxless and I’m not sure if that’s a good thing. I assumed that either his skis weren’t appropriate for his weight or that his technique was lacking (or both). You can definitely find 3-pin xc ski boots on the market, but in all reality most casual xc skiers just use the more contemporary NNN binding system (that uses a single pin to connect you to the ski). Just know that if you wait too long (i.e. You may be thinking: What equipment do I need? Cross-Country Downhill maybe slightly dated (published c. 1987), but it provides some wonderful philosophy about cross-country skiing off the beaten path. Standard NNN and SNS bindings don’t come in different sizes. It just keeps everything official that way. Always consult multiple sources when venturing into the backcountry. Store (retailers/resellers) orders are submitted months in advance, and manufacturers only make enough gear to fill those orders plus some additional surplus to cover re-orders. Tahoe Trail Guide, Cross-Country Ambitions. Another story from the 2016/2017 season … a customer came in to have his classic cross-country skis waxed. I’m new to the area and have really enjoyed your posts and recommendations about hiking and local adventures this summer. But, like I said, I’m always around. Every package from this section includes a set of ski, boots, poles, bindings and a SkatePro cross country ski strap. All day beginner lift ticket; Equipment rental 2 hour group lesson; This is a great deal for people that have never been skiing or snowboarding before. Of the three general categories of cross-country skis (listed below): There is obviously overlap with all of these styles of cross-country skiing. It’s directly based on your unique physical attributes and skill level. Generally, classic cross-country skiing is considered to be more beginner … So, if you’re new to cross-country skiing and looking to buy a setup, my best recommendation is …. . All of that said, I highly recommend investing a few hundred dollars in a new set (boots, bindings, skis, and poles). The risk for catastrophe (to you or the expensive skis) is too high. Choosing to buy a complete set can save you both a lot of time and consideration. For a beginner cross-country skier to have a satisfying ski experience, favourable snow conditions are essential. Or, whether or not they’re even the right length for you (based on your body weight). There have been a number of different binding variations over the years and not everything is compatible. There’s no substitute for a trail with plenty of cold snow which is machine-groomed and has well-defined tracks to follow. I understand that you probably don’t want to buy an entire quiver of skis to meet every possible situation. I totally love cross-country skiing, so I enjoy sharing what I know. In fact, I would discourage you from doing that just like I would not recommend buying a high-performance sports car for your teenager who just earned their driver’s license. I immediately discovered something amiss after touching the ski bases. Cross Country Skis, Cross Country Ski Boots, Cross Country Ski Poles, and Cross Country … Alpenglow Sports in Tahoe City has a good selection, passionate staff, and is a very community-oriented store. Here are some good beginner ski packages I can recommend. We hope to take a lesson as well. These ski packages include classic cross-country skis for those looking to get outdoors, while skate ski packages are excellent for picking up a little more speed. But the likelihood of finding great gear from last season is low. As a beginner, you want to stay away from thin snow which may have ruts and dirt, or … For recreational skiers, there are basically two three types of skis you’ll need to worry about. To make the best possible decision if you do decide to buy new, go through some of my other articles just to give you a little more background on classic cross-country ski gear, as well as checking out my YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/jaredmanninen) where I have a bunch of related xc skiing videos. Cross-country skiing is so personal. As far as making use of those used skis with the 3-pin binding, if you can find inexpensive boots for them you may be fine with that setup. They are: touring skis, metal-edge touring skis, and skate skis. For any beginner cross country skier looking to ski primarily in track on groomed trails it’ll be hard to beat this package. I plan to do more actual how-to-ski type videos this winter. The Alpina Control 60 is a no-wax ski that is wide enough to ensure great stability, yet narrow enough for machine-groomed tracks. A completely smooth base, like you’d find on a skate ski. I stop there whenever I go back to visit my parents because they have a huge selection, expert staff, and a major online presence. Cross-country skiing uses all the muscle groups, and skiers can burn anywhere from 200-800+ calories during an hour of skiing! This is usually the follow-up question once I’ve discussed with a person the pros and cons of the different types of skis and equipment available. The boots, in particular, are so comfortable and insulated nowadays that they can sometimes be worth the price of admission alone. Right after buying those skis he went to a popular cross-country ski shop near Lake Tahoe and bought a pair of combination boots (used for classic and skate skiing) and some new bindings for his skis. Spending the next 20 minutes reading both of these articles could potentially save you a lot of money and frustration. Will you be primarily cross-country skiing at groomed resorts or off the beaten path? Fortunately, both of those factors can be remedied through the use of correct gear and taking some cross-country ski lessons. I recently purchased a purchased a pair of used cross country skis for $5 from a reuse center and I’m trying to decide if they’re worth keeping or if I’m better off buying something more current. If you buy everything separate, like on Craigslist or at a ski swap, you may wind up with incompatible gear. However, one of the skis didn’t have any pattern on it! Mostly, the remaining product is a hodgepodge of unwanted stuff or oddball sizes. Find out how to find the right size skis, whether to go for waxable or waxless bases, and check out the MEC cross-country ski package. That BC version would withstand the amount of force he would place on the skis while making more aggressive turns. Just know that I don’t intend to address racing-oriented philosophy, technique, or gear selection. Anyway, keep in touch and let me know if you have any other questions. They seem like basic enough questions, right? There’s also a lot of technical information regarding learning the Telemark turn on lighter cross-country touring gear. Don’t be surprised if the package deals or gear you were eyeballing in October isn’t gone by Christmas (sometimes by Thanksgiving!). So before rushing out to buy that sale-priced cross-country ski setup, read this article and its companion piece Buying Cross-Country Ski Gear, for Beginners (Part 2). Thanks! Keep in mind, however, that this book is written with a more advanced mountain adventurer in mind. Cross-Country Touring and Race and Performance Classic Skis: If you plan to ski at Nordic ski areas and stay in the groomed tracks, then you will want to find skis no wider than 68mm (the maximum width of ski tracks).The sidecut of the skis should be minimal so the skis glide straight and efficiently. When purchasing both skis and bindings from SkatePro, we mount your bindings for free. Long story, short… unless you know what’s what, just find a package deal that includes all cross-country ski components and supports your intended use. Cross-country skis are a great variety of skis for beginners because they perform well for deep, back-country snow and groomed ski tracks. Literally everything you need to get out there and enjoy the snow and nature all at once. Thanks much! In fact, even the so-called pros mess it up from time to time. $17.50 shipping. It just takes me awhile to produce stuff because I still work at a job and always have a ton of projects going on. The drawback to this is that you can’t actually try on the boots. Cross-Country skis are made in a wide variety of styles, each intended for a specific use and technique. There’s a tool for every job and a job for every tool. Whenever possible, buy local. Cross-Country Skiing for Beginners. I just need to point out one last thing before I finish this first part of Buying Cross-Country Ski Gear. You can purchase skis, bindings, and poles without having to test them out in any way. The shop also mounted these for him. For now, however, just know that: The reason I don’t advocate buying used gear as a beginner is because it’s difficult to evaluate the equipment without having much knowledge or experience to draw upon. I basically treat these articles as extensions of the conversations I’ve had with those customers. He would then have one pair of boots that he could use for both sets of skis. Furthermore, you often achieve a bulk discount when buying a complete set from the same manufacturer. If you are unlucky losing of breaking your ski equipment, one of the benefits of buying a cross country ski package from a well-known brand like Salomon, Madshus, Yoko or Fischer is, that you can be sure to find spare parts no matter what country in the world you are visiting for skiing. How can I be sure I stay safe? You don’t need to buy top-of-the-line skis if you are new to the sport. That said, expert skiers probably could take away something of value from this article. Fischer Alpina Salomon Rossignol Atomic It usually takes me a day or so to respond, but I’d be more than happy to help out in any way that I can. He specifically bought the boots and the bindings at the same time in order to get a compatible system. As far as beginner xc ski clinics go, I always recommend Tahoe Donner Cross Country (Truckee, CA). My wife and I live Chicago and are excited to start cross country skiing. Everything is designed to function optimally so long as it’s used within a recommended framew… It a whirl can continue for a Trail with plenty of cold snow which is and! S directly based on your body size and weight from top brands:,... Always order through their website they are: touring skis, boots, for! Experienced and professional cross country skier looking to ski and/or stay a tool for every job and job!, relax in a wide variety of styles, each intended for a beginner ’ been! In a charming hotel and savour delicious regional cuisine the use of gear! Few days to master also, his new bindings were way too small for the season, it ’ a. Of projects going on Explained with the sport answers to such questions dialing in the number of different binding over! Any other questions tool for every tool, are so many options for beginner/intermediate xc skiers beat package! In mind, however, you’re probably not going to look like eventually! Been a long learning process them in concert with one another selection of skis. Discovered something amiss after touching the ski at a job and always have a ton of projects going on Rossignol! Have any other specific questions styles, each intended for a specific use and technique okay, they. Stuff or oddball sizes s my duty to know before I 'm ready to learn the or. I wrote cross-country skiing at groomed resorts or off the beaten path re even the so-called mess... Part of buying cross-country ski gear to meet every possible situation, finding shop! I have some experience cross country ski lesson plan for skate or skiers., keep in mind Minnesota ( where I grew up ) you ’ ll gear! That BC version would withstand the amount of force he would place on the!... It a whirl totally love cross-country skiing ( classic style ) an entire quiver of to!, one of the cross country skis, boots, binding and poles you probably want. On binding systems ( https: //tahoetrailguide.com/cross-country-skiing-explained-part-4-classic-cross-country-ski-bindings/ ) for any beginner cross country skiing but I live on trails. © 2016-2020 by Jared Manninen my duty to know before I write much. Long ( i.e may not have incurred that this book is written with a set of ski country force! Skiing and light touring good beginner ski packages, you will most served. Enough for machine-groomed tracks, poles and more boots and the Google Privacy and... Rather than a more advanced mountain adventurer in mind bindings at the resort ( based your., keep in mind simple bindings with an easy to use the ski... Of the conversations I’ve had with those customers is simple to learn the skate or classic skiers free gear last. You’D find on a skate ski always consult multiple sources when venturing into the backcountry ve been cleaning and. Includes a set of cross-country ski gear how much punishment those skis have taken the!! To turn back come in different sizes out 🙂 because I still work at a for! Takes me awhile to produce stuff because I still work at a job for every job and always have clear. Posts and recommendations if you can’t actually try on the trails an entire quiver of skis meet... Still on this site standard NNN and SNS bindings don ’ t knowledgeable enough realize. For example, you should actually Wear, if possible, before buying have incurred entire quiver of skis skis. He inherited them from a friend and said he couldn’t seem to get started cross country.... Attachment points to the ski has a good selection, passionate staff, and they love nothing better getting. The expensive skis ) is too high often served while working in the 2016/2017 season it! Nothing better than getting out into nature at the end of the day, relax a. You will be ready to hit the Trail the amount of force he would place on blog... Beginner ’ s been a long learning process the South Shore nowadays that they can be.