The Gear Junkie's Top 10 Cross-Country Skiing Essentials
Cross-country skiing is among the world's great human-powered modes of movement. Whether you ski classic or skate, here’s the gear you’ll need to get started.
Upgrade: Skate Skiing
Outside reviews the best gear in the 2012 Winter Buyer's Guide, including the Fischer RCS Carbonlite Skating Hole skis.
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Atomic Worldcup Skate Boot: Cross-Country skis Review
Madshus Nanosonic Carbon Skate R Skis: Cross-Country skis Review
Madshus Nano SKC Boot: Cross-Country skis Review
Rottefella Xcelerator Skate NIS Binding: Cross-Country skis Review
Atomic Wordcup Skate FL Skis: Cross-Country skis Review
Atomic SNS Pilot Race Skate Bindings: Cross-Country skis Review
What cross-country ski-and-boot setup should I get?
I want to take up cross-country skiing again after a 20-year layoff. What's the latest in gear, not necessarily top of the line but not entry level, that will get me back there again? I'm a classic skier with a passing interest in skate skiing. Can both be done with two sets of skis and the se boots and poles? I remember waxing as something tedious to be avoided at all costs but the waxless skis back then were useless in some conditions—have they improved? Mike Wheaton, IL
Ice Climbing Gear Essentials
The key to staying warm and stuck to the ice? The right stuff.
Which cross-country skis work best in the backcountry?
I’m an alpine skier but would like to bomb through the fresh Iowa powder (when we get it) on cross-country skis. I prefer skis that are for off-trail but that can also take some turns down the gullies. Any recommendations? Steve Iowa City, Iowa
Which cross-country ski equipment performs well on and off trails?
I need a complete setup for cross-country skiing (boots, poles, and bindings). I'll primarily ski on groomed trails, but I'd like the ability to ski off groomed trails occasionally. Could you recommend a package for me? Zenon Hartford, Connecticut
Winter, On Speed
Make skate skiing part of the season's regimen and you'll start the year with fitness to spare
