I am a recreational, intermediate level, cross-country skier who skis on groomed trails using the classic and skate styles. All my opinions are based on my 40 years in the sport. The following article is about how to begin cross-country skiing.
Most people overdress for this activity. You need a layer of clothing next to your skin that can wick away perspiration to the warm layer(s) of clothing on top. Finally, a windproof jacket is worn as your final layer to retard heat loss. All layers should contain zippers to help vent excess heat if needed. Gloves or mitts are needed for your hands. A cap or toque is a good idea in temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius.
Now that you are properly dressed, go to a local ski club on a day when it is not too cold. Minus five to -10 degrees Celsius is a comfortable temperature range and snow at that temperature is good to ski on. If you need to rent equipment, go for the classic ski equipment first, rather than skate ski equipment. Several local clubs offer rentals.
Go with a friend, who cross-country skis, so he/she can help you select the best rental equipment and give you some ski tips when you are skiing the trails. Pick the easy trails and do not have any expectations about performance. Enjoy the day, the company and just get comfortable on the skis.
If, after a few ski sessions, the sport appeals to you, then it is time to purchase your own equipment. Specialty stores are the best places to buy equipment since the staff have product knowledge and usually are cross-country skiers themselves.
The skis and poles have to be matched to your height, weight and ability. Boots have to be properly fitted and the proper ski bindings have to be selected. Only knowledgeable, experienced people should do the matching, because a mistake can mean skiing misery rather than skiing enjoyment.
Another option is to purchase ski equipment at ski swaps, held annually at some clubs. The price is much better than buying new. However, the equipment is used, and you need a knowledgeable person along with you to select the best equipment.
Lessons from a qualified instructor will shorten the learning curve and increase your enjoyment of the sport. Some of our local ski clubs can provide instructors. There is a cost involved, but it is worth it. There is also excellent instruction available for children provided by the Jackrabbit program. The instructors are trained to teach children ski basics in a relaxed and fun way.
Greater Sudbury has excellent cross-country ski clubs with a wide variety of trails for skiers at every ability level. Some of these clubs provide rental equipment, ski instructors and Jackrabbit programs. Add to this some excellent specialty stores that sell quality equipment for all ages and abilities and you have the perfect place to learn and participate in the sport of cross-country skiing.
John Gaul is a Greater Sudbury resident who has been a recreational cross-country skier for the past 40 years. This is the second in a series of columns about cross-country skiing.
Posted by Laurel Myers
