Types of Cross Country Skis

Classic Cross Country Skis

If you use the classical or diagonal technique, you will obviously need a classic type of cross-country ski. However, there are subdivisions within this category. Skiers who stay on groomed, parallel tracks will be most comfortable on the skinnier model of classic cross country skis.

Backcountry Cross Country Skis

Skiers who wander off the groomed tracks and onto ungroomed trails less traveled will require a wider, backcountry ski. It's important to note that these skis are much to wide for groomed, parallel tracks. Backcountry skis have scales on the bottom, middle section of the ski, which prevents them from sliding backwards during the push-off stage. They are designed for deep snow and hut to hut touring

Classic Cross Country Ski Camber and Flex

Cross country skis have a camber, which is an arch at the center. On classic skis, the arch weighted, in order to get traction. This weighted camber is enhances the performance of the classic kick and glide cross country ski technique.
The flex of a classic cross country ski is related to its ability to grip the snow when the skier applies weight to it. Stiff-flexed skis are best for groomed tracks.

Wax On/Wax Off

Some cross-country skis have scales in the middle of the base. They are called waxless skis, and are designed for beginners and occasional skiers. These skis do not require waxing.
Waxable cross country ski require periodic waxing with a substance called kick wax. Although they require more maintenance, they usually out perform the waxless models.

Cross Country Skate Skis

Cross country skate technique involves picking the ski up off the ground with each forward stride. As such, cross country skate skis are shorter and lighter than touring skis.
Since maximum push off power is required in skate technique, skate skis have minimal or no side cut. You'll notice that most skate skis are wider at the waist, but narrower than classic touring skis. They have less camber, and are usually stiff-flexed.