Ski Techniques

Expert’s Picks: Ski Techniques

Skate Ski Waxing Techniques

There are two types of cross country ski techniques; classic and skate skiing. Skate skiing is similar to ice skating. Unlike classic skiing, which uses a kick wax, skate skis should only be waxed with a glide wax, which makes the ski slipperier. Glide wax protects the ski base, while preparing the pores of the base for snow and temperature conditions. It… read more
Telemark Ski Technique

Telemark skiing, also known as free heel skiing, is a fluid and graceful way to ski the slopes. Anyone with a background in alpine skiing or even snowboarding will be able to learn the movements of telemark skiing, though as with anything, practice makes a world of difference. Mastering stance, balance, body position, lead changes and pole planting are the m… read more
Cross-country Ski Techniques

Cross-country skiing is a great way to experience the outdoors in the winter. It allows for an escape from the busy slopes and crowds of downhill skiing to an environment where quiet serenity is more important than speed. Additionally, it burns more calories per hour than almost any other outdoor-based, winter activity. Cross country skiing is guaranteed… read more
Powder Skiing Techniques

Skiing is like dancing on snow, and deep powder snow can provide a euphoric experience. A skier using proper techniques will float and fly down a steep slope, while each effortless turn throws a cloud of snow into the air. Powder skiing techniques are somewhat similar to skiing packed snow, and most intermediate and expert skiers can adapt to the new style i… read more
Ski Wax Techniques

As part of a full ski tune, waxing your bases is the last step. Many racers wax their skis every time they go out, using special waxes that perform best at different temperatures. Temperature waxes outperform universal waxes, but universal waxes are less labor-intensive--you don't need to wax every time the weather changes. Before waxing, have your bases pre… read more

Related Ski Techniques Articles & Videos

How to Snow Plow

Whether you're just learning how to ski or have been schussing for years, there's one indispensable skiing technique that you can't live without--the snowplow. In the early days of skiing, students were taught how to snowplow in prepar… read more
Types of Snow Conditions for Skiing

One of the secrets of becoming an expert skier is to be able to handle all types of skiing conditions. While the steepness and the width of runs at your favorite resorts rarely change, chances are the snow conditions will. The most co… read more
Primary Muscles Used for Skiing

What are the primary muscles used for downhill skiing? If you had asked this question 50 years ago, you would have received an entirely different answer. Back then, strength was a crucial element of alpine skiing. As such, the quadrice… read more
How to Choose Skate Skiing Gear

While skate skiing and classic style are both examples of cross-country or Nordic Skiing, in many ways, this is one of the only things that they have in common. Skate skiing is performed from a "V" position. One ski is pushed out at an… read more
Cross-Country Skiing Tips for Beginners

Cross country skiing can feel awkward at first, especially if you are only acquainted with downhill alpine style skis. Remember that it takes time and patience to gain skill. Stick with it, and the magical, peaceful feeling of gliding… read more
Primary Muscles Used for Cross Country Skiing

Many people prefer cross-country skiing, not only as a means of enjoying the outdoors but also for a full body workout. Depending on individual form, a cross-country skier may use slightly different muscles, but there are at least thre… read more
Ski Equipment Tips

The right ski equipment can help you improve your skiing technique, and thus enhance your enjoyment of the sport. Choosing ski equipment used to be a simple process. Today, there are different types of equipment for varying abilities,… read more
Types of Downhill Skis

Before the 1990s, selecting skis was a relatively simple process. You could choose between cross country and downhill skis. Then with the advent of parabolic or shaped skis snow sport enthusiasts suddenly had more choices. Manufacture… read more
Skiing Equipment History

When we gear up for a day of skiing we rarely, if ever, think of the history behind the various pieces of equipment we wear and use. Ski history owes much to Scandinavian and northern cultures. read more
Games That Teach Kids to Ski

Teaching kids how to ski, especially in groups, can be a difficult task. You need plenty of patience and an enthusiastic approach. Kids can be easily distracted and easily discouraged, so you must maintain their focus with fun games. U… read more
Difference Between Skate Skis & Cross Country

Cross-country skiing is one of the best forms of aerobic exercise and is also an enjoyable way to enjoy the snowy, wintry trails. There are two main types of cross-country skiing--classic style and skate skiing--and each has its own te… read more
How to Teach Kids to Ski Tether

Introducing your child to skiing early can build a love for the slopes that lasts a lifetime. It can also make family ski trips fun winter vacations for all to enjoy. Teaching kids to ski can be difficult, but if you are an advanced in… read more
Swix Ski Waxing Techniques

Waxing cross country skis is important to getting the proper performance out of them. Waxable skis outperform waxless skis, as long as you prepare them properly. Even waxless skis benefit from applying glide wax to the glide zone of th… read more
How to Turn on Cross Country Skis in Deep Snow

While cross country skiing in groomed tracks is fairly easy to learn, skiing in deep snow requires different techniques. Deep snow skiing is often associated with back-country touring, where a skier is using cross country skis to hike,… read more
How Do I Gather Proper Skiing Equipment?

If you are looking to get off the rental skis and into your own gear, then you'll need to make a few preparations to know what equipment is right for you. There are plenty of good skis and boots out there, but each style is designed fo… read more

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