Sarah WallockHow to get cross country skis for newbies!
Whether you’re an athlete looking to add another winter sport to your repertoire, a parent looking to get your youngster kitted out, or a seasoned ski pro looking for an all-encompassing resource to send to a friend, I’ve got you.
A massive thank you to Kathi Kirkeby, Mammoth Mountain and Eastern Sierra Ski Association’s Nordic ski coach, Junior Nationals coach, and volleyball legend, who walked me through my intro to nordic skiing from the jump! And my dear friend and former roomie. And most importantly, mother to Mammoth’s most famous cat, Cupcake.
When I lived in Mammoth my interest was totally piqued in nordic skiing. Because I’m a general outdoor athlete and snowboarder, I’m always game to try new outdoor sports. But when I moved to Boulder and entered my 4th ski season, I knew this lower impact hobby could be a perfect way to spend my lunchtime excursions and morning and evening adventures, vs driving 30 minutes to my local ski hill.
The main things you’ll need to get started are nordic skis, bindings, boots, poles, and a place to ski. As for clothing, I’m sure there’s something already in your closet that’ll do.
To Thrift or Not to Thrift
After scouring thrift stores looking for the best deal or past season rentals or specials, I came away empty handed or with massive mock-ups on ancient skis, that were not worth the price. I found this fantastic, all-in-one package deal of skis, bindings, poles and boots from SkiEssentials shop in Vermont, sent it to the expert, Kathi, and bought it for a meager $250. Kathi loved this package of Rossignol and Evo equipment as her beginners at Mammoth Mountain used the same exact set-up for rentals!
I was getting quoted for even higher rates in thrift stores for used and abused goods.
My original boots were too snug, so I did have to swap to a higher size. And once they arrived, we were in action in North Boulder Park, groomed by Boulder Nordic Club.
Let’s Dive Into Gear
Cross Country Skis: Let me take the choice out of the matter for you and keep it simple. Get classic skis. Stay in the groomed tracks. Rock on.
Ignore the other blogs that give the option of classic vs skate vs backcountry as if that’s even an option. As a beginner, not only is this the safest option, it’s the most affordable and attainable for most snowy areas. From Colorado to Vermont to Norway and beyond, there’s a plethora of FREE groomed tracks you can explore on your new cross country skis.
Bindings: You’ll need bindings to attach to your skis. Or some skis come with bindings included. I wouldn’t try to go cheap and match random skis to bindings. Not all are created to fit one another or from the same decade.
Boots: Get cozy nordic ski boots that don’t jam your toes and where you’re not bobbling around.
Poles: Poles should be lightweight and adjusted to your height.
Outfit: Don’t go full “it’s freezing and winter outside” snowboarding or skiing outfit. But definitely not a “it’s a light summer run” either. I love using my mid layers for a comfortable, sweaty cross country ski. Generally, I wear bibs, or cozy outdoor pants, depending on the temps, and a base layer and mid layer. I wear sunglasses and a beanie or hat to keep my head warm. On longer excursions, I bring water and snacks. Having a thermos with warm beverage is also a major level-up. But for cross country skiing in your local park, you don’t need to wear anything fancy. Not too bulky and not too light.
Where to Ski:
Depending on where you live or recreate or vacation, there are hundreds of locations to ski for free across the US and globally. Kathi clued me into the fantastic public trail network in Norway, the homeland of her ancestors. And even right here in Boulder, I am spoiled for epic access. Back in Mammoth, there were numerous public options as well.
And if you love snow as much as I do, you know with a few inches, your public park or local grassy flat can easily transform into an adventurous ski tour.
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even head abroad with Lumi Experiences cross country ski vacations to Norway, Sweden, Finland or beyond on a nordic ski holiday.
Remember to tread lightly and recreate responsibly, following the rules of Leave No Trace.
