Skating or classic?

The choice between classic cross-country skiing and skating cross-country skiing is made according to several criteria. The first criterion is the desire of the skier, their preference, and attraction to one type of practice over the other. However, when one is a beginner in cross-country skiing, it is preferable to lean towards classic skiing. Easier to grasp, it allows beginners to understand gliding and balance, which is quite different from downhill skiing. If you are looking for affordable cross-country skiing equipment to start or improve, many options are available.

Classic or alternative skiing:

Classic cross-country skiing is practiced in the tracks marked on cross-country ski trails, it is the way the pioneers of the sport began. The skis are always parallel, and the effort is mainly concentrated on the arms and thighs. It is a good muscular complement and especially cardio for trail runners. The ski consists of a grip zone in the center that prevents sliding backward and glide zones at the front and back for forward movement. For skiers wishing to choose a classic ski, there are several types suited to all levels.

Skating cross-country skiing:

Skating cross-country skiing is completely smooth, the effort is somewhat like ice skating or rollerblading, moving from side to side. The goal is to find good glide whether on flat terrain, uphill, or downhill. It requires a lot of technique and works the cardio as well as the thighs, hamstrings, and shins. Skating is a more popular technical style than classic and is used in biathlon events by athletes like Martin Fourcade, for example.

Choosing classic cross-country skis:

There are 3 types of grip for classic or alternative skis.

  • Scale bases, located in the middle of the ski, this system is perfect for beginners who want to stroll with alternative skiing. It offers good grip and decent glide. However, it can be limited when the snow is icy.
  • Climbing skins, like in ski touring, a mohair or synthetic skin is present in the middle of the ski and allows for good forward glide and grip on all types of snow. To go further and benefit from a complete classic cross-country skiing equipment, you can opt for suitable packs.
  • Grip wax that offers ultra-efficient glide/grip performance regardless of the type of snow. However, they require regular maintenance for a higher budget and are generally used by experts in classic skiing.

Choosing the size of classic cross-country skis:

Since skiing is practiced in the tracks in an alternative manner, meaning one ski and one pole after the other, the skis need to be long enough to allow both glide and grip.
For classic skiing, it is generally recommended to have a ski that measures between 15 and 25 cm more than your height. However, this also depends on the weight and level of the skier. Two skiers of the same height but different weights will not necessarily choose the same ski size. A heavier skier will choose a longer ski for better grip.
The choice of ski thus depends on the skier's level, the flex and camber of the ski will also need to be considered according to your level. A ski with a larger camber (the gap at the center between the ground and the ski when the ski is at rest) will be intended for the experienced skier. The width of the ski is also to be taken into account, a beginner will prefer a wider ski for better balance. To compose your set, do not hesitate to choose a complete cross-country ski pack to start on solid foundations.
Thus, more than the choice of size, which is very important, it is the choice of ski type that will prove essential.

How to choose your skating skis?

It is generally recommended to choose a ski that is 10 to 15 cm longer than your height.
However, as with the choice of classic cross-country skis, the most important factor when choosing your skating cross-country skis is the skier's level as well as their weight. Wearing appropriate cross-country skiing clothing also helps optimize practice and comfort.
Here, the skiing level is very important for the choice of size. A beginner skier who does not necessarily master their balance should choose a shorter ski to better control their movements and equipment. A more experienced skier will tend to choose a slightly longer ski for better glide during practice. Weight is an essential element, a heavier person will also tend to choose a longer ski.

The cross-country skiing equipment:

  • There is a difference between choosing your cross-country skiing shoes according to the skating or classic style. A skating shoe will be taller with good ankle support for perfect control of the ski. In contrast, a classic ski shoe will be lower to allow for good ankle movement. For those looking to optimize their cross-country skiing shoe equipment during the winter or in view of competitions, specialized models are available, just like high-performance outdoor shoes for versatile use.
  • For cross-country ski poles, it is the opposite of skis, it is recommended to take poles that reach the armpits for classic skiing to push well during effort. In skating, however, longer poles will be more effective, generally, a pair of poles should be chosen that reach shoulder height or even ear height for more experienced skiers. Also, remember to complete your equipment with cross-country skiing accessories suitable for all conditions.
  • The cross-country ski bindings are to be chosen according to 4 systems: SNS, Prolink, Turnamic, and NNN. The Prolink, NNN, and Turnamic systems are all compatible with each other; however, the SNS binding system has a different standard and is only compatible with SNS-specific shoes.
    A thin and lightweight binding will be more expensive and intended for experienced skiers, while a heavier and wider binding allows for better balance for beginners.

You now know everything about the fundamentals of cross-country skiing equipment, so all you have to do is make your choice and enjoy the many Nordic areas open this winter.