How to choose the right cross country skis. How to choose skis: best recommendations and tips Cross-country skiing by skier weight

An athlete's height is one of the main factors to consider when choosing skis. The ideal length of this sports equipment, as well as ski poles, depends on this parameter.

At the same time, it is important to take into account that modern models, which are made from new materials, are shorter than those used in previous decades.

Therefore, in that case if you want to buy skis for yourself or your child, you should not focus on numbers that were previously considered generally accepted.

How to choose the right skis and poles for height?

Usually, classic skis must exceed the height of the athlete by 20-30 cm. Skate models much shorter, here the excess is no more than 15 cm.

The ideal ski length for two different skiers of the same height can vary considerably- it depends on the weight, stiffness of the material and riding style.

The higher the weight, the longer and stiffer the skis should be.

Ski types

In order for skiing to be successful, it is important not only to choose the right size skis and poles.

The first step is to decide which skis to choose, what type of this sports equipment you need, and for this you need to know where and how are you going to ride.

For the classic move

Skis for classic skiing- the best choice for those who often go skiing. In the middle part of such models, special notches are made that provide excellent grip on snow.

For skating

These skis are designed to move in skating style. when an athlete walks along a wide snowy road, and the technique of his movement is similar to the movements of a skater.

Skating this way is somewhat more difficult than the classic style.

Mountain

Alpine skis are designed for downhill skiing from the slopes and for skiing. They come in several types, each of which is designed for a specific style of riding:

• skis for carving;
• for freeride;
• freestyle;
• ski touring and ski mountaineering.

Cross-country

Cross-country skis are perfect for country walks and easy hikes over short distances.

At the same time, it must be borne in mind that they are intended primarily for moving on already trampled snow, while tourist models are better suited for virgin lands.

For a child

If you want to involve children in skiing, the choice of children's skis and sticks needs to be approached even more carefully.

After all, the child does not have so much strength, and if the model is chosen incorrectly, he will probably not like skating.

Choosing ski boots and bindings

For newbies systems with automatic fastening of boots are well suited. Advanced skiers Prefer to use manual fixing.

First you need to find comfortable shoes, and then choose bindings that fit them. In order not to be mistaken with the size, you need to purchase thermal socks for skiing in advance and measure the shoes already in them.

At the same time, it must be borne in mind that there are boots for classics, boots for skating and combined shoes that will suit both styles of skating.

Choosing skis is not such an easy task at all as it might seem at first glance.

However, if you arm yourself with knowledge in advance and approach the matter with all seriousness, making the right decision will not be difficult.

Zermatt, St. Moritz and others: for everyone!

With well-chosen skis by type and length your skiing or your children's skiing will be held with maximum comfort and safety and will definitely bring a lot of positive emotions.

How to choose the right skis, boots and bindings is described in the video:

Cross-country skis are traditionally divided into those designed for classic and skating. In the first case, the skier moves his legs, placing the skis parallel to each other, while skating, the step is carried out as on skates, while the span is made wider, taking into account the length of each ski. Thus, when walking, the skier puts the main emphasis on the inside of the ski in order to push off harder. For effective running, equipment must be selected correctly, taking into account all the nuances. What to look for when choosing

Skating is much more difficult than classic. This leads to greater rigidity of the skis, which will allow you to push off more strongly. Of course, having classic skis, you have every right to get acquainted with the technique of skating, but no more, since the expenditure of effort will exceed the pleasure received from speed. Another point that needs attention is the texture of the bottom surface. To prepare for high-speed movement, skis are lubricated with special substances that create better glide, and, accordingly, ease and speed of skiing. So the surface must be smooth. Attributes for skating do not have upturned noses, and they are not as long as for classic walking.

Ski material for skating

High-strength plastic is the material from which most models are made. He practically ousted wooden inventory from the market. This is understandable: plastic breaks less often, it is easier to care for it, plastic is more practical in all respects.

Correct selection of ski stiffness

The way to determine this property of skis is surprisingly simple. Lay the selected model on a flat floor. Get on your skis, make sure that the weight is proportionally distributed over the surface. A sheet of paper should easily pass between the floor and the underside of the ski. This simple manipulation will confirm the presence of a gap of 3-4 millimeters, which you need for a comfortable glide. Skis that are too stiff will not provide you with proper traction, and it will be difficult for a person with a large weight to push off and pick up speed, because the skis will sag too much and the weight will be distributed unevenly.

There is a simplified way to test the stiffness of skis, for this you don’t have to “try on” them. Just take two skis and, putting them together, squeeze tightly. Having found a half-centimeter gap between them, you can take it. A smaller gap will indicate excessive softness of the model.

Length of skis and skating poles

For children under 12 years old, the length of the ski is equal to their height. If a young athlete is over twelve, add 10-15 cm to his height, this will be the optimal length for him. Add 25 cm to the height of an adult.
As for the sticks, their length should be 15-20 cm less than the height. The material from which they are made should be the lightest. Models made of carbon and carbon fiber are lightweight, but expensive. Fiberglass products are great for beginners as they are light, tough and inexpensive.

If you are choosing equipment for a child, then consider all of the above recommendations. In addition, remember: shoes are selected exactly in size. Models "for growth" are unacceptable, because the ankle in them will be poorly fixed, and the risk of injury will increase.

Everything for those who dream of skiing in the nearest park on flat snow or ski tracks.

What are cross country skiing

Cross-country skiing is divided into racing, amateur and tourist. As a rule, the purpose is indicated in the product card.

1. Racing (marked Racing and Racing PRO). Such skis are designed for athletes and amateurs who want to develop speed indicators. This is an option for specially prepared tracks.
2. Amateur or pleasure (Active, Fitness). This is an option for those who sometimes choose to ride in the park, do it for fun and do not strive for records. Skis are slightly wider than racing skis; expensive materials and technologies are rarely used in their production.
3. Tourist (Back Country). These are skis for hunters, tourists and fishermen, people who need to move around, without a track or a ski track. Such skis are much wider than recreational ones in order to support the weight of a person on loose snow.

Skis

Classic skis (designation Classic or Cl) are longer than skate skis, have a sharp toe and a soft block. There may be notches under the last (designation TR) that prevent slipping during take-off. On the left - a ski with notches, on the right - without.

andrewskurka.com

If the ski does not have notches (WAX designation), a special ointment provides an anti-slip effect. However, beginners will find it quite difficult to apply it correctly, so a notched ski is the best option.

To choose the size of classic skis, add 20 cm to your height or simply raise your hand: the lowered palm of the outstretched hand should touch the top of the ski.

It is also worth paying attention to the stiffness of the skis. First determine the center of gravity: put the ski on your hand so that both ends are in balance. Then fold the skis with the sliding side towards each other and squeeze with one hand 3 cm below the found center of balance. There will be a distance of 1–1.5 mm between skis of suitable stiffness.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for classic skis are low and soft, without special inserts that fix the leg.

You don't have to buy boots. If the thumb rests on the toe of the boot, the foot will quickly freeze. It is better to take shoes half a size larger.

What to buy

Sticks

When choosing sticks for classic skiing, pay attention to their length. With short ones, it will be inconvenient for you to walk on flat terrain, with long ones, it will be inconvenient to climb slopes. Choose sticks according to your height: the lanyard outlet (the place where the strap is attached to the stick) should be at the level of your shoulder.

Sticks are made from aluminum, fiberglass and carbon fiber. Aluminum can bend under load. So, if you weigh a lot, choose glass and carbon fiber. The latter provides the greatest rigidity and lightness of the sticks. These sticks are used by professional athletes.

marax.ru

Also pay attention to the material of the handle. Sticks with a cork handle are well suited for walking in cold weather: the cork does not cool the hand, unlike plastic.

Skis

Skis for skating (designation Skate or Sk) are shorter and have a smooth block, since with this course the notches only interfere, clinging to the snow and reducing speed.

To find the ideal length for skating, add 5-10 cm to your height.

It is also worth checking the stiffness of the skis. The gap between the skis compressed with one hand should be 1.5–2 mm.

What to buy

Boots

To prevent injuries and excessive stress on the foot during skating, additional fixation is needed. Therefore, skating boots are taller and stiffer than classic ones and are complemented by a special plastic cuff.

What to buy

Sticks

Skating poles are longer than classic ones. The lanyard should be at the level of the chin or lips of the skier.

How to choose universal skis, boots and poles

If you plan to master both classic and skating, you can purchase universal equipment.

Skis

Universal skis (Combi designation) are longer than skate skis, but shorter than classic ones. To determine the correct length, add 15 cm to your height.

As for notches, some all-purpose skis have a replaceable middle: if you want to ride in a classic style, use notches; if in a ridge, remove the notched nozzle.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for universal skis are almost the same as classic ones. They are just as soft and flexible, but have a plastic cuff that supports the ankle.

What to buy

Sticks

For universal skis, poles are suitable for both classic and skating.

What are fasteners

Three types of mounts are now common: the outdated NN 75, NNN (with or without the NIS platform) and SNS.

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Surely many remember this mount from childhood. This is an ordinary metal brace that fixes the leg, but it does it quite badly.

It is almost impossible to skate with the NN 75. In addition, good boots for this mount are not produced. The only advantage is the low price.

What to buy

NNN (New Nordic Norm)

Auto mount NNN / spine.ru

This mount consists of two guides (flexors) located at some distance
apart, and a rubber stop.

There are two options for such mounts: automatic and mechanical. The NNN's automatic fastening latches with a simple push of the boot on the brace. In the case of a mechanical one, you will have to open the lid with your hands, and after installing the boot, close it.

Mechanical fixings NNN / manaraga.ru

However, the mechanical fastening is more reliable: it cannot accidentally come unfastened, for example, during a fall. Also, if you're planning on skiing in warmer weather, water that gets into the automatic binding can freeze and block it.

Also, fasteners differ in the degree of rigidity. If the NNN rubber stop is white, the mount is designed for hard riding, if it is green, for softer riding. Black stops are suitable for standard skiing, and red ones for soft skiing.

If you prefer skating, choose bindings with white or green elastic bands. If classic - with black or red.

To install NNN on skis, you need to find the center of gravity and drill a hole for the mounts. However, there is an easier and more convenient method of installation: special NIS platforms.

Mount NNN NIS / dostupny-sport.ru

The Nordic Integrated System (NIS) was developed in 2005 for NNN mounts. Skis adapted to NIS are equipped with a special plate on which the mount is installed. Skis do not need to be drilled, just slide the mount along the guide plates and snap into place.

The mount is easy to install and remove, eliminates the search for the center of gravity of the ski and can be used with different pairs of skis.

What to buy

This is a mount with one wide rail and two brackets. SNS mounts are also divided into automatic and mechanical.

shamov-russia.ru

Unlike NNN, SNS has only three levels of hardness. They are marked with a numerical value and a color. For a classic ride, you should choose bindings with a flexor hardness of 85 (yellow), for skating - 115 (red), and for universal use - 95 (pink).

In terms of comfort, stability and lateral stability, there is little difference between SNS and NNN mounts.

Most cross country ski boots are designed with some type of binding. Therefore, first choose shoes that fit perfectly on your foot, and only then the bindings suitable for them.

Due to the NIS, NNN fasteners are more convenient to install, but SNS are more stable: due to the platform, NNNs are higher than SNS screwed on. On the other hand, a higher position increases the force of the push. In general, both bindings are used by both amateurs and professional athletes.

What to buy

What materials to choose

Skis made from solid timber or glued layers of wood are a thing of the past. In modern models, wood is also used, but, as a rule, the core consists of it, and the sliding surface is made of plastic.

If you're used to skiing with a wooden base, the plastic can feel uncomfortable due to the recoil. Plastic is more slippery and, unlike wood, does not “dislodge” when rubbing against snow.

However, with proper lubrication of plastic skis, it is quite possible to avoid kickback. As for the benefits, plastic skis are more durable and, unlike wooden ones, allow you to ski in positive temperatures.

According to the manufacturing method, skis are divided into Sandwich and Cap. The former are several glued layers of plastic and wood, the latter are a wooden core with a monolithic plastic cover.

For cheaper skis, the core is made of wood with air channels. In professional and more expensive ones, it is a wooden honeycomb or is made on the basis of acrylic foam with a carbon and fiberglass mesh, lightweight polyurethane foam with carbon and fiberglass inserts (Polycell technology), Densolite foam or other lightweight synthetic materials.

The sliding surface is made of different types of plastic. For cheaper options, extruded plastic is used, for more expensive options, high molecular weight universal plastic is used.

Many new technologies and materials are now being used to keep skis light and at the same time provide strength. However, all this comes at a price.

Therefore, if you are a beginner, it is worth trying regular skis with a core made of wood or Densolite foam and a base made of extruded or high molecular weight plastic. The price of such skis depends on the specific brand and ranges from 2,000 to 8,000 rubles.

Which brands to look out for

Among the well-known Russian manufacturers is the STC factory. She makes both racing and recreational Sable skis, fiberglass ski poles.

Professional models - with a honeycomb core and a sliding surface PTEX 2000 (carbon fiber), and amateur models - with a wooden core and a plastic coating. Skis are made using Cap technology and are sold at very affordable prices.

Among foreign brands (whose products are often produced in Russian factories, including STC), the Austrian manufacturer of skis and equipment Fischer is quite popular.

Fischer produces men's, women's and children's professional and amateur skis, using combined materials such as a wooden core with Air Tec Basalight basalt fibers. Fischer skis can be bought at a price of 5,000 rubles.

No less famous is the French ski brand Rossignol, whose production is located in Spain and Ukraine. The cheapest amateur skis with a light wood core and a plastic sliding surface can be bought for 5,500–6,000 rubles. Almost all skis of this brand are equipped with the NIS platform.

The third brand from the rating is the Norwegian company Madshus. Amateur skis of this brand are made using Cap technology with a core of wood with channels, glass and carbon fiber braid and a plastic base. The cost of the cheapest skis of this brand is 3,000–5,000 rubles.

Approximately in the same price category, the cheapest amateur skis are the Austrian brand Atomic and the French company Salomon. Cheaper Salomon models have a Densolite dry foam core and a graphite base, while more expensive professional models have honeycomb cores and a zeolite base.

Each brand develops its own technologies: lighter cores, adding various minerals to improve glide, changing ski geometry. Therefore, it is best to focus on the purpose of the skis (for which course, pleasure or sports) and the availability of a length and stiffness suitable for you.

Every novice skier faces the difficulties of choosing cross-country skis. How to choose cross-country skis? Skate or classic? Or maybe universal? More expensive or cheaper? The correct answer to these questions will determine whether you love this sport or hate it.

In this article, we will tell you how to choose cross-country skis and not turn the buying process into a headache. How to choose skating and classic skis, how they differ and what to look for.

First you need to understand a few important points. Buy sports equipment maximum quality which your family budget can afford. Even for occasional family outings do not choose the cheapest skis. This principle is similar to or other sports equipment. The miser pays twice - this has long been known to everyone.

You can often hear from beginners: "I ride 5 times a year, I need the cheapest." Such an installation will spoil the impression of skiing for you and your loved ones. Moreover, if you ride 5 times a year, then it is better to spend this time with pleasure, and not in torment. Of course, the financial condition imposes a framework on this principle, but this is a personal matter for everyone.

One thing is for sure, it's better to buy inventory, proven brands. They have appropriate quality control and reputation care. Here are the brands we trust and recommend for purchase:

• Salomon
• Fischer
• Atomic
• Rossignol
• Tisa (owned by Fischer)
• Peltonen

What is the difference between classic skis and skate skis?

First of all, they differ construction or, as skiers say, diagram. The work of skis depends on this, but for a skate and a classic it is completely different. Also, for the classics, the skis are selected longer, and for the skate, shorter. This is explained by the fact that in the skate you need to swing the skis to the sides and do it more conveniently short. In the classics, it is better to take longer skis. According to the laws of physics, the longer the ski, the less pressure it creates on the snow, the less friction and the better the glide.

How skate skiing should work

As can be seen from the figure, skating never completely crushed. It works like a spring and has maximum pressure points in the toe and heel. In the foreground, the diagram reflects the pressure when the athlete is positioned on 2 legs. In the background - the transfer of weight to 1 leg during the rental. The pressure increases significantly on the toe and heel, and almost does not change under the last.

How a classic ski (classic) should work

image from the magazine "Skiing"

Classic, on the other hand, completely crushed under the block. It is understandable - under the block there is a holding ointment that does not allow the ski to slide back when repulsed. In the foreground of the scheme, the skier stands on 2 legs, in the background, the weight is transferred to 1 leg and repulsion occurs.

The diagrams clearly show why it is almost impossible to skate on classic skis and vice versa.

What is combined skiing (combi)?

Combined skis or just combi are classic with increased rigidity. Roughly speaking, these are skis for the classics, with the opportunity to skate sometimes. True, there is one minus - for a classic move under the block, it is necessary to apply holding ointments, and this ointment will only interfere with skating. That is, the combi needs to be constantly re-greased, which causes inconvenience and takes time.

Advantages of combination skis:

• savings (no need to spend money on 2 sets)
• a good option for the first skis (in the future you can decide which move you like more)

Cons of combined skis:

• you need to constantly apply and wash off the holding ointment
• do not fully reveal the features of riding styles

How to choose cross-country skiing for a beginner?

First you need to decide what move you want to ride, where you will ride and what goals you set. There is not always a prepared wide track for skating, but a ski track can be trodden in every park, even in the center of a big city. If there is no good track nearby, which is looked after, then definitely take classic skis. If the track is nearby or there is an opportunity to drive to it, then the choice is more difficult. To simplify, we conditionally divide skating into several categories:

• walks with family and friends

On walks, the main thing is to have fun, fresh air, communication, hot tea from a thermos. For such riding it is better to choose classical. We advise you to pay attention to oil-free skis- with notches or mohair modules (Skintech, Twinskin and the like). They do not need to be smeared so that they do not roll back, you can comfortably stand on them and drink tea, and it is much easier to climb a mountain without serious physical preparation.

Skating is not suitable for these purposes. Skating is an energy-intensive type of skating; walking with a skate will not work. Without proper preparation, it will not be possible to communicate during skating, someone from the company will definitely fall behind, and skating will not last long.

• regular exercise to keep fit and healthy

Simply put, exercise for health 2-3 times a week. Here you can already connect the skating and alternate it with the classic - combined skis are suitable for these purposes. If you are not afraid of the disadvantages of this type of ski, which we have listed above. Or buy skis for every move from the middle price segment.

• improving the technique of skiing, the desire to improve in skiing

If you want to learn how to ski technically, then you need to think about buying 2 pairs - one for each style of skiing. Combined will not allow you to put equipment

• participation in competitions, the desire to improve the sports category

To fight for the result in competitions, of course, you need several pairs. At least 1 for each style, ideally 2-3 for each style. Moreover, the skis must be of the highest level. Here it is already worth starting from how much you are willing to invest in your hobby. It is always better to take 2 good pairs than 4 mediocre ones. The selection of professional skis requires a special approach. About, how to choose professional skis, read in our separate article.

• Geometry. Skis should not be curved in the longitudinal direction (it is convenient to look at the groove), there should not be a helical bend

image from the magazine "Skiing"

• sliding surface should be flat, plastic without waves, bumps and pits
• The laminate should not be damage. Moisture can get inside through them, then the core will swell and become unusable.
• Must shrink the same and evenly. It should not be that one ski compresses lighter than the other harder

How to choose skis for classic skiing?

By height

Classics are selected based on the formula: skier height + 20-30 cm. If your height is 180 cm, choose skis 200 - 210 cm long.

By weight

Skis for the classic course are selected based on surface weight markings. Such designations are even on some inexpensive skis from well-known manufacturers, such as Salomon. In the photo, the skis are designed for a weight of 65-78 kg.

If there are no markings, then you can pick them up by weight popular among skiers paper dough:

1. Find a balance point. This can be done by placing the ski on a thin ruler or a knife. If there is nothing at hand, then you can take the ski with 2 fingers by the sidewalls and find the balance point.
2. Put your skis on a flat floor and stand on them so that the toes of your boots are on the line of balance
3. Have someone run a piece of paper under the skis. You need to stand straight, distributing the weight on 2 legs. A sheet of A4 paper should come out about 20-25 cm ahead of the boot and reach the heel. When transferring weight to one foot, the ski should almost press down on the sheet. If you take a narrower sheet of paper, then it should walk a little under the ski.

There are rougher ways to select skis by weight if the store does not allow a paper test. Such methods are only suitable for the cheapest ones, which do not have weight markings.

Please note that the strength of the brush is different for each person and this selection method cannot be used as the main one.

The first way - squeezing with one hand:

1. Find a point of balance
2. 5 cm below the balance point, squeeze a pair of skis with one hand. There should be a gap of about 1 mm

Another way our fathers and grandfathers checked the stiffness of skis:

1. Find a point of balance
2. Squeeze a pair of skis with 2 hands below the balance point. Thus, you need to find a pair that you barely squeeze, if squeezed too lightly, then they are soft. If you can't squeeze it, then it's hard.

Last and the easiest selection method if you don't want to bother at all. When the skier's weight is above the norm, it is better to take the upper limit of the length, that is, the skier's height is + 25-30 cm. When the weight is normal, the average value is selected (height + 20-25 cm), weight below the norm - height + 20 cm) . Also, for overweight people, we recommend paying attention to the combined ones and picking them up according to the height according to the classic scheme. They differ from the classic ones only in increased rigidity.

How to choose skis for skating?

By height

For skating, they are selected according to their height as follows: skier height + 10-15 cm. Short skis are more maneuverable and easier to manage. Therefore, it is better for beginners to take shorter lengths, if body weight allows. For experienced skiers, we recommend longer skis (closer to +15 cm).

By weight

On some models, as in the case of classic ones, it is indicated skier weight range for a specific couple. If there are no such markings, then you can use the same methods as in the selection of classic ones, except for squeezing with 1 hand. But there are a few features:

1. On a paper test, when transferring the mass of the skier to one leg, the paper should move freely under the ski in the binding area
2. When squeezing with 2 hands, there should be a gap of about 2mm

Many specialized stores have special devices for measuring the stiffness of cross-country skis.

How to choose combination skis?

Combi are selected as a cross between a skate and a classic: skier height + 15-20 cm. As we wrote above, combi skis are classic skis with increased rigidity. Therefore, the selection of combined skis is identical to the selection of classic ones with a slight bias in skating. The selection methods have been described in detail above.

How to choose skis by stiffness: video instruction from Fischer

Many specialized shops have devices for measuring the stiffness of cross-country skis. In the video, the selection of skis is made on a special stand, but on a flat floor with a piece of paper, you can conduct a similar test.

Skiing is fresh air, creaking snow, mesmerizing speed, fun and entertainment. The loads associated with this sport help to strengthen the muscles and the immune system, and have a positive effect on the general condition of the body. So that the rest is not overshadowed by discomfort and unpleasant moments, it is important to be able to choose the necessary equipment. After all, the right equipment is the key to quality rest. But above all, when choosing equipment, the style of riding is taken into account. Skis for the classic course are usually used by beginners. Skis for skating are gaining more and more popularity today. How they differ from classic models, and how to choose equipment for yourself, you can learn from this article.

Classical and skating are the main ways of skiing used by athletes and skiing enthusiasts. "Classic" means sliding along two parallel tracks, used by beginners and skiers with experience. Skating (free) style is a new way of skiing based on movements borrowed from speed skating. Shocks with the inner side of the structure allow you to develop high speed when running. For each type of movement, a special type of ski is intended.

Equipment for skating

Skate models are designed to constantly slide, overcoming long distances by running. To do this, the sole of the structure is covered with paraffins and accelerators that improve slip.

Externally, products for skating differ from classic models in a shorter length (up to 192 cm). Such designs have less curved noses. Many models are produced with cropped toes. This allows you to reduce weight and improve the aerodynamic characteristics of the equipment.

Rigidity is one of the main properties of skating skis. This feature allows you to make pushes and develop speed on a prepared dense track. As evidenced by the work of the block. In the "classic" when sliding on both legs, it does not touch the snow surface, but bends and adjoins the track only when pushing with one foot. In products for skating, which are characterized by rigidity, the gap between the block and the snow cover is maintained even when the weight is transferred to one leg.

Important! Skating skis are used exclusively on hard surfaces. Since even a slight snow embankment can become a serious obstacle and cause a skier to fall.

Skis for classic skiing

Classical models are designed for alternating movement. For this reason, they are partially treated with an ointment that holds the block. Sliding and the best move provides a raised toe. The outfit is soft, not peculiar to it and elasticity. Thanks to these characteristics, the greatest contact of the ski platform with the snow surface is ensured. That under acceptable conditions allows you to achieve the required speed. However, due to the lower rigidity, cornering control is reduced, so it is more difficult to make them with stepping steps. The length of the structure is 205-207 cm, which helps to keep the athlete in the track.

What is the difference

The following differences between skating and classic skiing can be distinguished:

1. Movement technique: for the "classics" - alternate sliding, for skating skis - constant.
2. The main load in the ridge model is distributed to the front and back of the structure. In the "classic" it falls on the middle zone (waist) of the ski.
3. To improve gliding, the sole of skating skis is lubricated along the entire length with paraffin, in classic models only the toe and toe. For the treatment of the middle zone, a special ointment holding the block is used.
4. Classic skis are longer than skating equipment and have a curved toe.
5. Rigidity in skating is about 2 times greater than in the "classic". The first option differs in elasticity. You can verify this by pressing the ski with your hand to the floor. In the middle part of the product, a gap of up to 2 mm will remain visible.
6. Skate models are used to move along a prepared compacted track, the “classic” is also allowed to move off the track.

The question of how to choose skis for skating is often puzzled by beginner skiers. However, the “skate” is a way of skating that requires a lot of energy. And you can't walk in it. To overcome the track, you need proper preparation and knowledge of the following nuances.

Material

For a long time, wooden products were popular in skiing. The situation has changed with the advent of plastic structures on the tourist goods market. Products made of high quality plastic are practical and easy to use, they are able to reach high speed. Snow sticks to them less during the thaw and they can look decent longer. Compared to plastic products, wooden products are less durable and require special care and storage. However, for beginners, this budget option is the best solution.

Subtleties of choice

When buying ski equipment for skating, you need to pay attention to the following points:

1. Straight longitudinal groove. No curvature or helical bending in the longitudinal direction.
2. Smooth sliding platform. Bumps, pits, cracks, corrugated plastic or wood are a sign of poor quality.
3. Hardness level. When squeezing the skis folded by the sliding platform towards each other with the hands, the same stiffness should be felt. The nose parts of the products must be closed.
4. Strength. Especially strong equipment is required for people with a lot of weight.
5. The same location of the center of gravity (permissible displacement is not more than 1.5 cm).

What influences weight and height when choosing models for the "horse"

The selection of skis for skating is carried out by weight and height:

1. By weight. On many models, the minimum and maximum weights of the skier are indicated. In the absence of such markings, you can determine the size of ski equipment in the store using a device for measuring stiffness. You can choose the option that suits the weight of the skier yourself. Having folded the skis with the sliding surface inward, they are squeezed by hand 3 cm from the center of balance. When performing such an action, the ideal pair will be the one in which there will be a gap of 1.5 mm.
2. By growth. To do this, apply the following formula: the height of the skier + 10-15 cm. This is the maximum length of the skis for the "skate". Otherwise, it will be difficult to cope with the heels while walking. Compliance with this condition will ensure comfortable riding. The size table below will help you choose the correct length of the structure.

Skier Height

Ski length

Stick length 1,0 1,10 0,90 1,05 1,20 0,90 1,10 1,20 0,95 1,15 1,30 1,00 1,20 1,35 1,05 1,25 1,40 1,10 1,30 1,45 1,15 1,35 1,50 1,20 1,40 1,55 1,25 1,45 1,60 1,30 1,50 1,65 1,35 1,55 1,70 1,40 1,60 1,75 1,45 1,65 1,80 1,50 1,70 1,85 1,55 1,75 1,90 1,60 1,80 1,95 1,65 1,85 2,00 1,70 1,90 2,05 1,75 Similarly, ski equipment for children is selected. For preschoolers, children's short skis are suitable, the length of which corresponds to the height of the child or exceeds it by 5 cm. Such models will make it easier for little skiers to master the walking technique. Important! You can not buy ski equipment for children for growth. Incorrect equipment will create discomfort for the child, discourage the desire for skiing and can cause injury. Ski equipment should not be too heavy. This also applies to boots and sticks. To support the ankle joint, which is under heavy load, boots are chosen relatively hard and high. To move with a skating style, the hands actively work, so the sticks need the lightest and most durable. Their height should reach the skier's earlobe. Manufacturers overview There are many offers on the ski equipment market today. The rating of the most popular ski manufacturers for skating includes Russian and foreign companies. Professional models are produced by Atomic, Salomon, Fischer. Inexpensive models for beginners are produced by Karjala, STC, Tisa - the best option for beginner athletes. Brands Nordway, Atomic, Tisa are the best manufacturers of models for small skiers. The main thing is to be able to choose the right equipment. And then a good mood, pleasant impressions and memories will remain from the ski trip.