Equipment

The following guidelines will help you select equipment that will keep you comfortable while skiing.  Remember: every individual is different.  Experiment with the clothing layers and gear that work best for you; what works well for one athlete may not work well for another.

Skis and Poles

• Skiers will practice both skate and classic skiing. Each discipline requires specific skis and poles of the correct length.  To wit:

  • You must have skate skis and poles

  • You must have classic skis and poles

    • For new skiers, we recommend classic skis with "skins" in the kick zone under the foot, which don’t require kick waxing.  Skins look a bit like a rug, and work by gripping the snow when the ski is compressed during the kick phase of sking.

    • Do not use waxless "fish scale" skis.

  • You must have a ski bag and two sets of ski ties.  Using these will help protect your skis from damage.

• If you are purchasing skis and poles, work with a reputable ski shop such as Gear West, Finn Sisu, or Pioneer Midwest to acquire skis and poles with proper fit.  As a student athlete, you are eligible for a 10% discount.

• In October and November, watch for local ski swaps: Finn Sisu, Gear West and Pioneer Midwest all host ski swaps

• If you already have skis, get them "flexed" at one of the shops mentioned above.  A ski operates like a spring, and flexing tests how the ski responds to your weight, which will determine how well it will work for you on snow.

• The Southwest Nordic Booster Club has rental skis and poles available.  If you plan to rent, you still need to purchase your own ski boots.

Boots

• You must have ski boots

  • If you only wish to purchase one set of boots, get a combination ("combi") boot, which can be used for both skate and classic skiing.

  • Do not purchase boots for SNS or SNS/Pilot bindings; this binding style has been phased out.

  • If you have skis with SNS bindings, they can be upgraded to Salomon Prolink bindings by a ski shop

Clothing

In general, light, non-cotton layers will work best to keep you dry, warm, and happy.  Never wear cotton while skiing.  Cotton absorbs moisture and loses its insulating properties.  Colder temperatures generally necessitate additional or heavier layers.  

The following items are recommended:

Indoor Training:

• Non-cotton T-shirt, shorts, and cross training/running shoes. 

Outdoor Dryland Training:

• Warm-up pants or running tights, long-sleeve base layer, gloves, hat, lighter jacket or wind-resistant layer, if needed.

Skiing:

• Hat and/or headband 

• Neck gaiter (Buff) or balaclava

• Medium weight XC ski gloves and/or mittens/lobster mitts – consider two pairs so one is always dry

  • Do not wear downhill ski gloves--these are too heavy for high-output activity and will usually not fit into your ski pole straps

• Ski socks

  • non-cotton

  • Must be ¾ crew length or higher to extend above your boot cuff

  • A thin liner sock may be added for additional warmth in cold temperatures

• Long underwear (also known as base layers): synthetic (no cotton) – merino wool can work great, but is not as durable as the synthetic options. Boys you need a wind brief for races!

• Cross country ski jacket – team jackets will be available to purchase – if you are purchasing a different jacket, look for breathable material on the back and sleeve construction that allows freedom of movement.  A lighter jacket worn over other layers is more versatile than a heavier jacket.

• Warm ski pants - preferably with a wind barrier front and breathable back

  • Side zippers (full length, or at least to the knee) are highly recommended for easier removal over ski boots.

• Puffy jacket to wear when practice is over.

• Team issued race suits will be provided.

Additional Items:

• Insulated water belt for nordic skiing.  Avoid hydration bladders worn on the back, as they often restrict movement and prevent evaporation of sweat.

• Eye protection

• Disposable hand and toe warmers for cold days

• Aquaphor or face tape to put on your face when it gets really cold

• Ski bag and ski ties (these will prevent damage to your skis, and help preserve your investment)