Content created in partnership with Vifamagazine.ca, December 2020.
Cross-country skiing is an easy family activity that allows you to get out, move about and get some fresh air.
There are a couple different kinds:
Skis with scales (small notches) or skins fixed under the camber do not require waxing (or only glide wax, if necessary).
In general, it is recommended to purchase skis that at least match the skier's height. Shorter skis are sometimes recommended to encourage faster learning, while the longer ones allow you to play on the flexibility of the camber.
In this regard, two major families share the market: Prolink, developed by Salomon, and NNN (New Nordic Norm), from the Norwegian company Rotefella. Both are comparable in both quality and price, but each system has its own range of boots, which are incompatible and not interchangeable with competing manufacturers.
What's important here is comfort and the ability to keep feet warm. When testing in the store, be sure to choose a model that provides good foot support, but with a loose interior so as not to block blood circulation (which can lead to frostbite in cold weather).
They can be made of carbon (stiffer and lighter, but more expensive), aluminum (heavier, but strong), or fibreglass (lighter, but more fragile).
When deciding length, using tried-and-true formulas is often recommended: for example, traditional cross-country skiers simply multiply their height (in centimetres) by 0.84, or subtract about 40 centimetres from their total height.
For all the tips and tricks on choosing cross-country skiing equipment for you or your children, download the free Family Winter Sports Guide - The Complete Guide from Vifa Magazine. (French only). You can also find there ideas for travel destinations.
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