Nordic Skiing Equipment Checklist (Nordic Walking Poles Included)
First and foremost, before getting your checklist made, find a store that sells a large selection of Nordic skiing equipment. Make sure that the store also has knowledgeable staffs who could provide you with a lot of information.
Depending on your expertise, the equipment you need may differ. However, the following are the basic set of gear that every Nordic skier must have.
- Skate Skis – They are shorter, lighter, narrower, and thus faster. However, you need to use different techniques to use them efficiently. Skate skis as the name suggests are used primarily for skating (similar to ice skating).
- Classic Skis – They are cambered and broader with a curve flex in the centre. This enables you to push forward even when one ski is weighted. Classic ski technique is similar to walking where your arms and legs move in equal and opposite directions.
- Skate Poles – The general rule is that the skate poles should reach between your lips and nose. Thus, if you are unaware of the approximate length of the pole, you can measure according to your height.
- Classic Poles – They tend to be around 7 to 10 centimetres in length, and should reach up to the top of your shoulder. This allows for natural striding motion used in the classic technique.
- Combi Boots – Rather than buying separate boots for classic and skate skiing, combi boots can be used for both.
- Ski Bag – Ski bags are a must-have as skis need to be packed in it to be kept in the wax room.
- Clothes – Once you have found the equipment, the next task is to find the right clothes. Nordic skiing involves a lot of physical activity and the sweat that comes with it. Thus, skiing in your regular cotton shirt and jeans can turn it into a miserable experience.
Once your cotton clothes absorb all the moisture, it loses its insulating value, and you would start feeling clammy and chilly. The only solution is to go for synthetic clothing. Synthetic clothes dry fast and offer breathability.
Often times, you won’t even have to purchase them if you take the effort to surf through your wardrobe carefully. If you would like to be a bit more precautious, choose a pair of socks and sweaters made out of merino wool. It is itch-free and feels amazing on the skin.
Often times this equipment could be bought as a package from Ski shops. If you are a newbie, you can skip purchasing both the poles and opt for a single pair. It’s beneficial to get skate skis and poles over classic skis and poles as you can skate rather than walk around. Skating is a faster style, and there is no requirement of kick wax as well.
If you want to just get out into the woods during winter, there is nothing better than Nordic skiing. Neither do you have to deal with speedy skiers gliding by your side, nor do you have to worry about the challenges? Choose an easy trail and enjoy the winter beauty!
