By Seth C. Burgess
Nordic ski equipment can be divided into three basic categories: racing, touring and back country. Nordic-style skis (cross-country skis) are typically much skinnier and longer than alpine or downhill skis, although later model extreme back country skis are looking more like alpine skis than ever before--shorter, rounder and wider. Racing skis are the longest and skinniest of all Nordic skis and are also known as "skating skis." Touring skis are somewhere in the middle as far as shape and design.
Poles, boots and bindings also vary for the three categories of cross-country skis. For racing, the poles are longer, the boots less robust. For back country skiing, the boots are more rigid, the bindings larger and adjustable-length poles are increasingly favored (long for uphill, short for downhill). Touring specs are more varied and somewhere in the middle of the extremes.
Perks
Purchasing Nordic ski equipment is a long-term investment. In many cases, once a skier has bought skis, poles, bindings and boots, the gear will last for more than a decade. Most cross-county skiers tend to find places to ski for little or no cost and in the long run cross-county skiing is much more affordable than downhill winter sports.
Sacrifices
Touring Skis and Backcountry Skis
Many skiers invest in several pairs of cross-county skis, boots, bindings and poles for varying conditions. Others don't have that luxury. They pick a skiing style, use that equipment in all conditions and learn how to deal with the weather and terrain.
Bottom Line
Nordic ski equipment comes in all shapes and sizes. Buy a combination of skis, poles, boots and bindings that fits you and that you can afford.
About The Author
Seth C. Burgess has been an outdoor writer for Trails.com since May 2009. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in information technology and a Master of Business Administration degree, both from the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, N.Y.
