Selection criteria for Nordic classic ski gear:
- Classic Skis: Current model skis are substantially shorter than when I bought my first pair. Use the manufactures weight/ sizing chart for the current length. Use a sheet of paper on a hard floor surface and slide the paper under the skis when you stand evenly weighted on both of the ski centers. The paper should not move once you apply all your weight over one ski.
- Wax or waxless skis: Waxless skis are more convenient, but cannot be as finely tuned and optimized for individual terrain and weather conditions. Select skis that accept wax if you intentions of racing in either a Nordic event or a multi-sport winter race.
- Classic and backcountry Poles: For non-adjustable Nordic or cross country poles: place the poles under your arm pit for sizing. Select a larger basket for backcountry skiing to prevent the pole from going too deep in powder.
- Classic Bindings: Match the binding to the type of ski: 75 mm or New Nordic Norm Back Country (NNN BC) systems consist of a short, metal rod mounted in the toe of the ski boot sole, which clips into a matching ski binding somewhat like a door hinge.
- Classic Boots: Boots and bindings must match. Ensure you select a boot compatible with the type of ski binding you have installed on your skis, i.e. SNS (Solomon Pilot System), New Nordic Norm Back Country (NNN BC), three pin 75mm, etc...
Bottom Line: Carefully examine how you will use your Nordic equipment throughout the year and select skis, boots and bindings that match!
- How to select Nordic Skate Ski Gear>>
- How to select Telemark Ski Gear>>
 Alpina Control LW Cross Country Touring Ski Precise design and feminine flair make up the Alpina Womens Control LW Cross Country Touring Ski. A longer kick zone and softer flex pattern help you get the most control out of your strides. |  Alpina Tempest Cross Country Touring Ski The Alpina Tempest Nordic Ski offers outstanding ski-ability in a no-maintenance package for skiers of all abilities. |  Rossignol Evo Action Jr AR Ski Let your kid use the Rossignol Evo Action Jr AR Ski to explore snowy city parks or white mountain trails. |
 Salomon Elite 6 Grip Ski The Salomon Elite 6 Grip Skis light carving S-cut provides more maneuverability and control thanks to its narrow sections closer placement near the binding zone. |  Salomon Elite 6 Vitane Grip Ski The Salomon Elite 6 Grip Skis light carving S-cut provides more maneuverability and control thanks to its narrow sections closer placement near the binding zone. |
 Fischer Outbound Crown Touring Skis 2009/2010 The Fischer Outbound Crown is newly upgraded with the Mountain Edge Tech. The mid-section of the ski uses an aircraft-grade ceramic glass fiber edge which helps to improve grip. The Outbound Crown ... more info. |  Fischer RCR Classic Vasa NIS Skis 2009/2010 The Fischer RCR Classic Vasa NIS returns for 09/10 with a vengeance featuring Fischera s lightweight AirCore construction with 812 Camber. Carbon and Glass Fiber layers add durability without ... more info. |  Fischer RCR Crown Vasa Waxless NIS Classic Skis 2009/2010 The 09/10 Fischer RCR Classic Crown Vasa Waxless ski is feature packed without the high price tag. The Classic Vasa features Fischera s lightweight AirCore construction with 812 Camber. Carbon and ... more info. |
 Fischer RCS Classic Cold Skis 2009/2010 The 09/10 Fischer RCS Classic Cold utilizes the original classic 812 Camber Construction, giving the top level racer an easy to set kick pocket and amazing glide characteristics. Each ski is finished ... more info. |  Fischer RCS Classic NIS Zero Skis 2009/2010 The 09/10 Fischer RCS Classic Zero ski is a great addition to your classic ski arsenal. The special 'no wax' kick zone offers excellent kick in difficult waxing conditions around freezing ... more info. |  Fischer Silent Spider Crown Touring Skis 2009/2010 The 2009/2010 Silent Spider ski is a versatile performer for 50% on trail and 50% off trail. These skis feature a wood core air channel construction and a durable sintec base with the Mountain Edge ... more info. |
 Fischer Snowbound Crown Skis 2009/2010 The 2009/2010 Fischer Snowbound Crown versatile mostly off-trail ski. A stable metal edged touring/backcountry ski, the Snowbound is intended for 20% on trail and 80% off-trail use. The Snowbound can ... more info. |  Madshus Glittertind Backcountry Touring Skis 2007/2008 The 07/08 Closeout Madshus Glittertind Ski is a waxable traditional length touring ski to be used in a variety of snow conditions and terrain These skis will glide and cover the miles. |  Madshus Intrasonic NIS Classic Skis 2009/2010 The New 09/10 Madshus Intrasonic Classic Ski is a lightweight, affordable Classic ski ideal for the fitness skier or high school racer. It features P-Tex 2000 Electra sintered racing base and ... more info. |
 Madshus Terra NIS Womens Classic Skis 2007/2008 The 07-08 Madshus Terra Women's Classic Ski is a performance ski that is an exceptional value. The Metis construction based uses only premium materials in base and core finishing. Featuring the NIS ... more info. |  Madshus Voss MG Touring Skis 2008/2009 The 08/09 Madshus Voss MG is a very comfortable ski in and out of track for those seeking the security and control a partial metal edge can offer. This waxless ski uses a new positive and progressive ... more info. |  Madshus Voss Wax Backcountry Touring Skis 2007/2008 The 07/08 Closeout Madshus Voss Ski is a waxable traditional length touring ski to be used in a variety of snow conditions and terrain.The partial metal edge gives the ski control on firm snow ... more info. |
 Rossignol BC 65 Positrack Touring Skis 2009/2010 The 09/10 Rossignol BC 65 Positrack skis are a lightweight and stable metal edged ski and is intended for 30% on trail use and %70 off trail use. The BC65 will fit in a groomed track.The full metal ... more info. |  Rossignol BC 70 Positrack Touring Skis 2009/2010 The 09/10 Rossignol BC 70 AR Skis is versatile mostly off-trail ski. A stable metal edged touring/backcountry ski, the BC70 is intended for 30% on trail and 70% off- trail use. The BC 70 can break ... more info. |  Rossignol BC 90 Positrack Touring Skis 2009/2010 For 09/10 the Rossignol BC 90 Positrack Skis is intended for 100% off trail use. The ski is a trail breaking machine intended for deeper snow conditions for the backcountry tourer. |
 Rossignol Delta Skating NIS Skis 2009/2010 The 09/10 Rossignol Delta NIS Skate Skis are a great option for anyone wanting stability and advanced features in a ski at a great price. The Delta Skate's base is identical to the Xium WC Skis. |  Rossignol Evo Action NIS Positrack Skis 2009/2010 The 2010 Rossignol Evo Action NIS Positrack skis are fitness and performance oriented waxless recreational touring skis for easy kick and glide classic technique in ski tracks. |  Rossignol Evo Glade AR Touring Skis 2009/2010 The 09/10 Rossignol Evo Glade AR ski is a terrific economical touring ski that will take you from groomed ski trails to your favorite out-of -the-way ski trail.The Rossicap wood core construction ... more info. |
 Rossignol X-Ium NIS2 W Skate Skis 2009/2010 The Rossignol X-Ium NIS2 W Skate Skis are a top World Cup Women's racing ski. The 09/10 X-Ium NIS2 W is designed specifically for women, and features NIS, Supra Edge, activ'cap, and a Nomex Core. |  Rossignol X-ium Skating WCS NIS Skis 2009/2010 New for the Olympic year, the Rossignol X-ium Skating WCS NIS Ski has thicker wood side walls, full carbon deck all the way to the tip, and offers better torsion box and greater edging than theX-Ium ... more info. |  Salomon Equipe 8 Skate Skis 2009/2010 The Salomon 2009/2010 Equipe 8 Skate Ski is a performance skate ski with emphasis on stability and glide thanks to the Javelin sidecut and high-end base material. Salomon has had a secret, but now ... more info. |
 Alpina Eve 30S Skate/Classic Combi Boot - Women's Slip your feet into the Alpina Womens Eve 30S Skate/Classic Combi Boot for a womens specific fit and added comfort. Uppers pulled over a womens last provide a close fit for better performance. |  Alpina SR 30 Skate/Classic Combi Boot Wear the versatile Alpina SR 30 Skate/Classic Combi Boot for additional ankle support whether youre tearing it up on a freshly groomed track or taking it easy classic-style. |  Atomic X-Cruise 40 Boot From laps around an urban park to cruising along a logging road in the mountains, the Atomic X-Cruise 40 Boot offers exceptional comfort so your Nordic workout can last longer. |
 Rossignol X1 FW Boot - Women's You just want a boot thatll allow you to get out and enjoy prepared trails or take the occasional quiet foray into ungroomed snow. The Rossignol Womens X1 FW Boot uses a womens-specific fit and a ... more info. |  Salomon Escape 7 Pilot Ski Boot - Men's Ideal for touring skiers and Nordic fitness enthusiasts, the Salomon Mens Escape 7 Pilot Ski Boot provides a classic style flex for the track, yet gives you support, comfort and warmth for making ... more info. |  Salomon Escape 9 Pilot Ski Boot Explore the winter world with the Salomon Escape 9 Pilot Ski Boot. This touring boot wraps your foot in Thinsulate for warmth and gives you a supportive, flexible cuff for logging some serious ... more info. |
 Salomon Pro Combi Pilot Boot Wear the versatile Salomon Pro Combi Pilot Boot whether its a race day or a take it easy day. The responsive SNS Pilot 2 Equipe Outsole provides better control and power transfer. |  Salomon Siam 7 Pilot Ski Boot - Women's Ideal for touring skiers and nordic fitness enthusiasts, the Salomon Womens Siam 7 Pilot Ski Boot provides a classic style flex for the track, yet gives you support, comfort and warmth for making ... more info. |  Salomon Siam 9 Pilot Ski Boot - Women's Whether youre out on the trail or making your own path over mellow terrain, the Salomon Womens Siam 9 Pilot Ski Boot gives your foot control, stability, and comfort. |
 Alpina ASC XT Cross Country Ski Pole Head into the backcountry with Alpinas ASC XT cross country skiing poles. This touring pole has an aluminum shaft for durability and stiffness for good power transfer. |  Alpina ASC ST Cross Country Ski Pole Cruise on logging roads and park trails this winter with your Alpina ASC ST Cross Country Ski Poles. |  Alpina BC 1550 Backcountry Boot The Alpina BC 1550 BC Backcountry Boot has the features you need for a full day of comfortable backcountry touring, like beefy construction and a Thinsulate lined upper section to keep your feet warm ... more info. |
 Alpina BC 1550 Cross Country Backcountry Boot - Womens The Alpina Womens BC 1550 NNN Backcountry Boot has the all features, comfort, and stability you need to keep your feet warm and dry during your full days of backcountry touring. |  Alpina BC 200 Touring Ski Boot With its supportive plastic heel counter and super-stable NNN BC sole, the Alpina BC 200 Touring Ski Boot takes you anywhere from deep into the backcountry, to the track near your house. |  Alpina BC 200L Touring Ski Boot - Women's The Alpina Womens BC 200L Touring Ski Boot gives beginning backcountry skiers the comfort, warmth, and extra support that their recreational cross-country boots cant provide. |
 Alpina BC 2050 Backcountry Boot Alpinas BC 2050 Backcountry Boot takes care of you when you plan on running into mixed conditions out on the frozen reaches. The BC 2050 tackles long days off the beaten path with its NNN BC outsole ... more info. |  Alpina Blazer Touring Boot If you cant bear to part with your old skis, but your old boots are falling apart, then the Alpina Blazer Touring Boot is your savior. The Blazer Touring Boot has a modern upper and lacing system ... more info. |  Alpina Control LW Cross Country Touring Ski Precise design and feminine flair make up the Alpina Womens Control LW Cross Country Touring Ski. A longer kick zone and softer flex pattern help you get the most control out of your strides. |
 Alpina Control NIS Cross Country Touring Ski The Alpina Control Nordic Ski is perfect for a beginner cross country skier. The lightweight ski is easy-to-handle and incredibly durable. |  Alpina Discovery Ski The Alpina Discovery Touring Ski is designed for skiers who want the float and stability of a wide waist but dont want to muscle big gunboats around in the snow. |  Alpina Eve 10T Touring Boot - Women's Slip into the Alpina Womens Eve 10T Touring Boot for comfortable nordic touring all day long. The flexible neoprene upper moves with you during each stride while the anatomic shaped footbed cradles ... more info. |
Alpina Eve 30S Skate/Classic Combi Boot - Women's Slip your feet into the Alpina Womens Eve 30S Skate/Classic Combi Boot for a womens specific fit and added comfort. Uppers pulled over a womens last provide a close fit for better performance. |  Alpina Eve 30T Touring Boot - Women's The Alpina Womens Eve 30T Touring Boot takes you over the river and through the woods, in or out of the tracks. |  Alpina Eve 40S Skate Boot - Women's The Alpina Womens Eve 40S Skate Boot adds warmth and comfort without losing any performance details. This high-quality boot is specifically designed around the womens last for maximum fit. |
 Alpina Forester Ski Disappear into the rolling hills with the Alpina Forester Ski. This lightweight touring stick uses full steel edges to give you biting turns and control as you come over the crest and down that open ... more info. |  Alpina Rotefella NNN BC Auto Binding The Rottefella NNN BC Auto binding is a user-friendly binding thats stable on the track and a breeze to step in and out of. Simply press your ski pole tip into the toe piece for an easy release. |  Alpina Rottefella NIS T4 Touring Ski Binding The Rottefella NIS T4 Touring Ski Binding uses a special adjustable heel plate to adapt to your precise boot size and to maximize performance and stability. |
 Alpina Rottefella NNN BC Magnum Binding The Rottefella NNN BC Magnum binding is designed to control the biggest bushwhacker skis. |  Alpina Rottefella NNN T3 Touring Auto Ski Binding Step into the Rottefella NNN T3 Touring Auto Ski Binding and feel the difference. A broad binding plate and two guide rails increase stability, response, and foot-to-ski feel. | Alpina SR 30 Skate/Classic Combi Boot Wear the versatile Alpina SR 30 Skate/Classic Combi Boot for additional ankle support whether youre tearing it up on a freshly groomed track or taking it easy classic-style. |
 Alpina SR 40 Skate Boot Slip into the Alpina SR 40 Skate Boot, clip in, and experience a bionic connection to your skis. |  Alpina ST 10 Touring Boot With its warm and flexible neoprene upper, the Alpina ST 10 Touring Boot lets you stride freely without sacrificing foot comfort. |  Alpina ST 30 Touring Boot Alpina designed the versatile ST30 Touring Boot to ski as far and as long as your adventures take you. |
 Alpina Tempest Cross Country Touring Ski The Alpina Tempest Nordic Ski offers outstanding ski-ability in a no-maintenance package for skiers of all abilities. |  Alpina TR 25 Touring Boot The Alpina TR 25 Touring Boot fits and feels like a cross-training shoe. The user friendly flex and the low price make it a great choice for beginners or anyone who wants to get into the sport. |  Alpina TR 50 Touring Boot Head to the local parks trailhead, or make your own tracks off your back porch. The Alpina Mens TR 50 Touring Boot is a warm, comfortable cross-country ski boot that guarantees fun trails are on the ... more info. |
 Alpina Tracker Cross Country Ski The Alpina Tracker cross country ski features aggressive Nordic side-cut dimensions and steel edges which make maneuvering in any snow condition a pleasure. |  Alpina Vantage XC Ski - Women's The Alpina Vantage features a deep Nordic sidecut and 3/4 steel edges to conquer the backcountry, and a womens-specific flex pattern to give you the best control and stability possible. |  Alpina Woody Ski Full steel edges on the Alpina Woody Ski give this backcountry stick the bite needed to make turns down the hill without flopping over like a ragdoll. A retro look compliments state-of-the-art ... more info. |
 Atlas 6000 Series 2-Piece Elektra Trekking Pole - Women's The Atlas Womens 6000 Series 2-Piece Trekking Poles take weight off your legs and exercise your arms as you snowshoe. Extend the lower section of pole for balance during your downhill hike and ... more info. |  Atlas 7075 Series 3-Piece Elektra Trekking Poles - Women's Atlas made the Womens 7075 Series 3-Piece Trekking Poles with super lightweight, strong aluminum tubing, so these poles support you and your heavy pack without weighing your arms down. Plus, these ... more info. |  Atlas 7075 Series 3-Piece Trekking Poles - Men's If youre looking for ultra-lightweight poles for mountaineering treks or snowshoeing day-hikes, grab the Atlas Mens 7075 Series 3-Piece Trekking Poles. These three-piece poles collapse down for easy ... more info. |
 Black Diamond Adjustable Probe Ski Pole The Black Diamond FlickLock Adjustable Probe Pole is the ultimate backcountry pole. They will climb, ski and help find your partner under the snow. |  Black Diamond Carbon Fiber Ski Poles Black Diamond Carbon Fiber FlickLock Ski Poles are the strongest and lightest poles in the BD line. |  Black Diamond Traverse Ski Poles The Black Diamond Traverse FlickLock Poles offer bomber performance and easy adjustment at a price that will make you grin. Light, compact, and perfect for the no-frills BC skier. |
 Black Diamond Whippet Self-Arrest Ski Pole The Black Diamond Whippet Self-Arrest Ski Pole gives you a bit of extra security when you ski lines where a fall can mean the end of your seasonor worse. |  Dynafit ST-100% Carbon Gasherbrum II Ski Pole Dynafit tested the ST-100% Carbon Gasherbrum II Ski Pole in the Himalayas to put it through the hairiest conditions possible before declaring it an astounding success. |  Life-Link Guide Ski/Probe Pole Lightweight construction, compactability, and versatility make the Life-Link Guide Ultra Light Ski/Probe Pole the choice of serious mountaineers and adventures. |
 Rossignol BC Adjustable Pole One piece of indispensable gear we never head into the backcountry without is an adjustable pole. The Rossignol BC Adjustable Pole is no exception. This adjustable Nordic skiing pole can be shortened ... more info. |
Nordic Classic and Skate Resources:
- Cross-Country Skiing Kuusamo World Cup Men 15 km
- Nordic tuning accessories. brushes, waxes, irons, stands and other gear.
- Colorado Cross Country Ski Association. Nordic ski areas, guest ranches and Nordic ski clubs in Colorado.
- Master Skier. The Master Skier is North America's leading cross country ski racing publication. It is full of Nordic racing information, classical and skating cross country ski techniques and training tips from expert racers and coaches around the world.
- How to Select Nordic Skis
- XCSki.org
- Rocky Mountain Nordic
- FasterSkier.com
- Frisco Nordic Center
- How to wax Nordic skis. Text and pictures on how to wax Nordic skis.
- Cloud City Ski. Could City ski covers the Leadville backcountry ski scene.
- Leadville Nordic. The home page for everything Nordic in Leadville and Lake County.
- Leadville Nordic Grooming. Blog on Leadville and Lake County Grooming.
- Swix School. Flash movies on how to wax Nordic skis.
