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Step 1
Select the correct length. Skis have suggested sizing that is based on weight. If you don't understand the chart, or need more advice, a salesperson can help you choose skis that are right for your weight and height. The more accurate you are in selecting the right length, the better your skis will serve you.
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Step 2
Choose a narrower ski if you will be sticking to trails, wider if you'll be going off-trail. The easier your skis glide, the less effort they take to move. Narrower skis glide better on firmly packed cross country trails, allowing the skier to expend less energy. Wider skis provide more traction on softer snow, or in more variable conditions, and when a skier is carrying extra weight, like a backpack.
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Step 3
Ensure your skis have double camber. Double camber skis have a continuous arch that lifts them off the ground. The ski will only touch the ground fully when pressure is exerted on it. This type of camber must be present in skis to perform the movements used in cross country skiing.
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Step 4
Choose the flex of your skis by the type of cross country skiing you'll be doing most often. Rigid skis are best on trails, while more flexible skis work best off the trail. Rigid skis offer easier glide. More flexible skis make maneuvering easier in soft powder and changing conditions.
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Step 5
Pick waxable skis for performance or non-wax skis for ease of care. Waxable skis perform better, but require a skier to choose a good wax for the given skiing conditions to get optimum performance. Non-wax skis will offer a consistent performance that is sub par to the performance of waxable skis, but requires no work before each run and less upkeep.
