Cross country skiing
Photo: Sondrekv, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Cross country skiing is an efficient way of travelling long distances across snow. The skis are narrower than downhill and slalom skis, and the poles are longer to increase propulsion. Cross country is possible in groomed trails or in untouched snow, the latter often referred to as ski touring or back country skiing. For the recreational skier there is no clear distinction between these styles of skiing.
Skis to go outside of the tracks tend to be a bit wider than the skis you use in tracks, to help you to float better in the snow outside of the tracks. Boots for back country skiing are usually made of leather and boots for groomed trails are usually made of synthetic flexible fabric. Unlike alpine skiing, boots are attached only at the toe and not at the heel.
Cross country skiing is a good exercise for the whole body and as intense cardio training is an alternative to jogging. Cross country can also be variation at a ski resort or as a means to get to the true wilderness in wintertime.
UnderstandCross country skiing is the original form of skiing and was developed as a common mode of transport in Northern Europe.
Ski types by purposeThere are rough categories of skis for different purposes. The division here may not be universal and there may be compromises, but you should probably decide which types make sense for you.
PrepareLearn to ski before you try longer trips on your own.
Waxing etceteraMost skis need waxing depending on temperature and structure of the snow.
Destinations
Backpacking by skiThis activity is also called backcountry ski, ski touring or ski hiking.
Stay safeIf there is snow for skiing, the weather is or may turn cold enough to pose a risk. See cold weather for general advice.
CopeIf the skis become wet underneath – which happens easily if there is water under the snow, such as often in ditches or on sea ice – go on skiing energetically, without stopping.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Cross country skiing" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Sondrekv, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons