How to Buy Cross-Country Skis

Cross-country skiing is a great way to get outdoors in the winter. Both the equipment and the trail passes are much cheaper than downhill skiing, and it is great exercise. The skis are lightweight and portable. After you have been out a few times on rental gear, you will be excited to invest in your own equipment.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money
• Time
• Internet Access

1. Demo gear from some reputable rental stores in your area and try a few different styles of skis to prepare to invest in your own equipment. Make sure to try skate skiing as well as traditional Nordic skiing as these require different equipment set-ups.

2. It is best to decide if you want to focus on back-country skiing or track skiing. If you really can't make up your mind, there are a few good cross-trainer skis available.

3. Once you are ready to invest in your own skis, it is best to start your equipment search at a local shop. Get a feel for what brands, heights and styles of skis you like.

4. You will need to buy bindings to mount on your skis. Ask at your ski shop for recommendations.

5. If you do not want to buy boots, it would be best to check in with your local Nordic facility and see what boot systems they use so your skis will work there.

6. If you feel the prices at your local shops are prohibitively expensive, go home and look for similar ski and binding styles on the Internet.