Socks for Nordic or cross country skiing are an important component for comfort while skiing.
It is worthwhile to be aware of the way to dress to cross country ski and this is useful info to be comfortable while doing it
XCSkiResorts.com editor sporting the Fischer Twin Skin skis
The cross country ski waxless “skin” bases, use inserted mohair strips on the ski bottom, which are extremely effective for all temperatures and snow conditions. It is high performance waxless base technology for the classic skier, who prefers to use a waxless ski. The ski strips are like small climbing skins and they are resistant to icing because they have a Teflon-like coating. There are conditions where a de-icer should be applied to the skins. There are anti-icing solvents that do not degrade the glue (which holds the skin to the ski) but it is best to get an anti-icer made by a ski manufacturer to avoid damage to the skin and the glue.
Specific cross country ski models that have a flex that are created in conjunction with the skin material, which rides above the snow in the glide phase, are easy to press down for excellent grip during the kick phase.
At Fischer, there are skin skis up and down the product line. The Twin Skin skis have two separate skin strips arranged in offset positions and with variable base-depth integration result in smooth and balanced gliding. These mohair skins ensure you can rely on the kick action, especially in hard or icy conditions and thanks to the unique Teflon coating of the skins, moisture absorption and subsequent icing is completely minimized.
Rottefella Move binding allows easy adjustment on the trail
Technique, temperature and snow composition all have an influence on ski performance but with all TURNAMIC® binding models, which provides tool free adjustment skiers can better match their individual needs. Sliding the system forward provides more grip, while sliding it back will noticeably improve glide. With the optimized setup of the boot-binding-plate-ski components, TURNAMIC® gives you dynamic skiing performance like never before. FLOWFLEX® technology enables the ski to flex freely. I own a pair of Twin Skin skis and I’ve found that these skis glide better than other skis that I’ve owned in the past. At the same time, the skis have not lost the ability to climb up hills.
The TURNAMIC® binding has a user-friendly entry mechanism providing individual adjustment possible in seconds and tool-free. The bindings quickly slide onto the plate without the use of tools. When it’s time to ski, the Turn Lock mechanism can be operated even with a gloved hand, making entry and exit easier than ever before. The Rottefella Move binding when it arrives in the USA, will provide even easier dial-oriented adjustments.The Fischer Twin Skin Superlite EF provides a lightweight all-around ski featuring Efficient Forward, which gives the skier an easier, more forgiving kick action and smooth gliding. The lightweight fitness sport skis come in traditional length to glide easily on the trail.
Rossignol R-Skin Ultra
The Rossignol R-Skin Ultra features a replaceable mohair insert, and the waxless R-SKIN base structures offer an easy, consistent kick and maximum glide with no additional prep work necessary. The Rossignol ski is built with a Nomex Honeycomb construction for an accessible mohair skin classic ski for fitness-oriented skiers. The R-Skin Ultra not only offers a bit more width than a traditional race-oriented classic ski giving a more stable platform, but it also has the same high quality base as Rossignol’s top end race skis, and a great new graphic. Compatible with the Turnamic® binding system, the new Integrated Fixation Plate (IFP) allows the most natural ski flex for unparalleled snow feel, precision, and glide. Replaceable mohair inserts reportedly provide 100-150 days on the snow before they might be replaced.
With the Atomic Pro C2 Skintec, prepping and handling couldn't be easier thanks to its Skintec technology. There's no need for kick-waxing - instead mohair grip zones produce excellent kick and glide in all snow conditions and temperatures. And you can replace the grip zone after heavy wear. Atomic has added a high-quality base, race grinding, a sportive sidecut and a flexible tip for an easy slide-in and glide. This year they've also given the series a facelift with a cool new design for the track.
A suggestion is to find a cross country ski area or ski retailer that has a demo fleet of skin type skis from any product company and give them a try. Play with the binding settings on the ski binding to see the effect from adjustments on grip and glide. Expect the ski to perform better than you have ever experienced. Here’s a link to Pioneer Midwest to shop on line https://www.pioneermidwest.com/shop/
The Rottefella cross country ski Move binding allows one to transfer weight balance forward or backward on the ski with the twist of a know to impact gliding or gripping on the trails.
Using the simple premise that women products need to be different from men's, some cross country (XC) ski companies went to work designing a line of women's skis and boots that incorporates various differences between the male and female physical characteristics and their interests. For example, women generally have narrower feet, so companies have built boots to accommodate. A woman's whole center of gravity may be shifted compared to a man, which means that application of force from the legs to the skis is shifted, so different flexes in a ski are appropriate.
Some product differences are cosmetic but they can also address fundamental interests such as stability or downhill control. Moreover, they are not just for the touring lines—companies recognize the need for women's products in each equipment category, from touring to backcountry to performance and racing.
Jan Guenther owner of Gear West, a retail dealer in the Minneapolis area commented that women are often shorter and lighter than men so they might be matched to a ski with a shorter length or softer flex that matches their ability and skiing goals.
Women's Products
Alpina Sports designed a line of women's XC ski boots after analyzing 2,500 women's feet using a patented Optical Measurement System and 3D Scanner to arrive at the "ideal" proportions. The fit of the Alpina's women's boots is dramatically different than the typical men's lasted, smaller sized boots that women are often sold. The flex patterns are totally altered, the heel pockets are much narrower, and the cuffs are redesigned for the slightly different calf/ankle configuration of a woman.
And now Fischer is making a big splash with its new women's XC line of skis and boots referred to as the My Style collection. The skis have a stable platform and excellent grip and the package includes color-coordinated skis, boots, poles and a ski bag. The skis with names such as Inspire, Mystique, and Desire, Passion include a Fashion product line and the Sport options.
These skis are configured lower than their unisex counterpart to account for lighter body weights and designed for the classic technique with less effort required. The ski camber is adjusted to a lower height so it will accommodate the skier who can use less energy to get the ski base waxless grip pattern on to the snow. And there's a new specially developed, very light binding for fitness-oriented women that is very user-friendly with an automatic step in/out mechanism.
Fischer has 14 models of women's boots ranging for high performance skate and classic to recreational and off track backcountry. Behind the fashionable designs lie numerous specific developments for enhanced female performance on the trails. Additionally the individual models are tuned to the varied individual skills and sporting ambitions of the respective skier.
The Rossignol X1 Ultra FW Nordic ski boot is an easy-to-use entry-level women's touring boot for beginning recreational skiers. The Lock Down foot wrap and Active Control heel provides a women-specific fit along with an external lace cover and simple lace-up design for comfort, warmth, and quick easy-entry and exit. Rossignol's X5 OT FW (Off-Trail) boot combines the best-selling women's touring boot features as well as a Cordura® lace cover and Thinsulate® lining to provide increased off-trail versatility, durability, and warmth. In-track or off-trail the free-hinge cuff with velcro powerstrap provides fuller mobility, stability, and control. These Rossignol boots feature new external cuff gaiters ultra-durable Cordura® lace covers, Thinsulate® lining, and a Thermo-moldable fit, for women who want comfort, durability, and warmth while exploring off-trail.
Salomon Nordic has women-specific boot models in classic, skate, and combi (can be used for either skate or classic skiing). These boots include lightweight carbon chassis, heel adjustments and dialed-in flex for women.
Mariah Frye-Colie of Cross Country Ski Headquarters, a Michigan cross country ski retail and area operation commented, "Women like to feel good with product options that flatter a women's body, but also are functional and comfortable. The Nordic ski manufacturers have woken up to the demand and it's great to have more feminine equipment and clothing."
General info about cross country ski products for equipment and clothing to enjoy the sport.
Pioneer Midwest ski shop
Here are some on line retail cross country ski shop outlets for XC ski products for XCSkiResorts.com readers. XC skis, boots, clothing and services are just a click away to reach Pioneer Midwest in Osseo, Minnesota.
www.pioneermidwest.com https://www.pioneermidwest.com/shop/
763-420-8981
Another retail outlet recommended by XCSkiResorts.com is Cross Country Ski Headquarters ( 800-832-2663; www.crosscountryski.com) which is a leading XC ski outfitter and ski area in Michigan since 1974.
High Peaks Cyclery is in Lake Placid, NY and also a click away at http://highpeakscyclery.com/
These outlets have high quality gear and services for XC skiers ranging from the first timer to the experienced racer. They guarantee the correct fit equipment to ensure you enjoy your time skiing.
These retailers can help you decide how to get out and enjoy the outdoors during winter. Here is the Cross Country Skiing Equipment Guide from Pioneer Midwest for new skiers to help consider what you want to do this winter on the snow
For example, Pioneer Midwest has XC skis for skiers that are looking for touring gear, classic skis, skate skis, skin skis, and demo skis. And there are discounted prices! Brands include Fischer, Salomon, Rossignol, Atomic, and others.
It is highly likely that your region is without quality XC ski product outlets, so Pioneer Midwest, Cross Country Ski Headquarters and High Peaks Cyclery on line are a convenience that will provide products and services to XCSkiResorts.com readers.
Many ski families have used books such as “Cross Country Cat,” “Snowflake Bentley,” “Ollie’s Ski Trip,” or “Cross Country Troll” to engage kids with the love of snow and skiing. During the pandemic period an extraordinary new book was conceived, produced, and published (May 2021) entitled “The Search for Dragon Proof Snow” which can be added to every ski family’s book collection.
The “Search for Dragon Proof Snow” was written by 34 authors and illustrated by Dorothy Wallace-Senft, who is a long time cross country ski instructor. Dorothy travels to the west in the summer to visit friends and enjoy the outdoors, and she provides a prospectus of the “story behind the story” about how The Search for Dragon Proof Snow was conceived on page 45 of the self-published book.
Using the words of one reviewer, “The Search for Dragon Proof Snow is a multi-dimensional visual delight and fantasy tale that will dazzle readers of all ages. The highly detailed illustrations and unique collaborative writing by the authors leads readers on a journey of a dragon that loves snow, but cannot play in it because of her fiery breath.”
Search for Dragon Proof Snow book release on June 1, 2021 at the Woodstock Inn & Resort in VT with Rebecca Grayck and Dorothy Wallace-Senft (Reese Brown photo)
To get the book directly by go to www.thesearchfordragonproofsnow.com
Here is content reposted from the TheNordicApproach.com about XC ski boots for women. It includes brand and product info from Alpina, Rossignol, Fischer and others.
https://thenordicapproach.com/womens-cross-country-ski-boots-a-buyers-guide/
Need some last minute gift ideas for a cross country (XC) skier? There are gifts ranging from $5 to $500, stocking stuffers to long distance trips.
Replace that old XC ski equipment
You can buy gifts for a XC skier on line (google outlets) or find a XC ski retail shop or a XC ski area (or their websites) to go shopping. Here’s a link to Pioneer Midwest to shop on line https://www.pioneermidwest.com/shop/
The little stuff includes:
Lip balm
Skin protection
Energy snack bars
Insulated water bottles
Books about XC skiing. Check Books for Sale.
Gloves (for different temperatures) and socks are popular.
Headlamp for evening XC skiing.
Ski wax and wax accessories.
Long underwear tops or bottoms (they come for different temperature ranges).
Jacket or Pants
XC skis, boots, poles, bindings.
Day trail pass or booklet of passes to a ski area.
Season pass to a ski area.
XC ski lesson (general or specific skill like skating, downhill, etc.)
XC ski rental (performance if already have old XC skis).
Other special program (kids program, women’s group, etc.)
How about a surprise gift XC ski trip weekend? Have a great holiday!
Research info about the value of immersing oneself in the outdoors for health and wellness.
McKibben's fable to consider secession and small is beautiful
Radio Free Vermont: A Fable of Resistance by Bill McKibben is a novel published by Blue Rider Press with a statement regarding big versus small and climate change. In the 1800’s one union was so significant but it was controversial. For decades this tug-of-war between states and the union built up and finally led to the civil war. Today, the American population is again heavily divided. During two centuries, the union was necessary to build railroads, settle a continent linking east and west, develop education systems, communication, national transportation systems, fighting world wars, reaching the moon, and so on. The indigent people were mostly eliminated and the bison and beaver hunted nearly to extinction. And now, a message within McKibben’s fable is that “we need to be small, or at least smaller.”
Bill McKibben is a champion fighter against climate change and founder of 350.org, the grassroots movement, which launched among other efforts a fossil fuel company divestment campaign. He weaves his scenarios of climate change cometh in Vermont into his fable story that centers on Vermont’s possible secession from the USA. Radio Free Vermont includes book cover reviews by progressives Bernie Sanders, Naomi Klein, and Jay Parinia, who calls the book “a balm for troubled times.”
Those familiar with everything Vermont will recognize McKibben’s local geographical and sociological references and that is an essential element of the overall point.
Among the 16 books produced by McKibben, starting with “The End of Nature” and more recently with “The Global Warming Reader,” he has previously written about cross country skiing (Long Distance) and in real life he is a regular patron at Rikert Nordic Center near Middlebury, Vermont. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the way McKibben weaves the sport of cross country skiing into the story using biathlon (competition that incorporates target shooting with cross country skiing), and an ambush, rescue, and escape on cross country skis.
The “living small” dialogue is portrayed by repetitive annunciation of “town meeting” the age-old community gathering done on the local level where local decision-making takes place. An apt quote by Abraham Lincoln is worked into the fable “Ere long the most valuable of all arts, will be the art of deriving a comfortable subsistence from the smallest area of soil. No community whose every member possesses this art, can ever be the victim of oppression of any of its forms.”
Some of the stand-out quotes in Radio Free Vermont include “the sound of freedom is low, quiet small. It doesn’t drown out everything else,” “Federal and state officials are not terrorists, they’re mostly just in over their heads,” and Rex Tillerson, US Secretary of State and one time Exxon CEO said to the fictitious Vermont governor, “I want to say that I’ve never had the chance to visit Vermont due to the fact that you have no deposits of oil or natural gas, but I do know that you have a number of very fine filling stations.” The use of humor can be poignant and stinging.
McKibben of course interjects a view of what Vermont will be like in the future as climate changes impact the region. “With the Arctic melted, there was no place to build up the intense cold that had always marked winter in Vermont. Lake Champlain did not freeze much anymore and if snow fell it was usually for a few nighttime hours in the middle of a rain storm.”
The book is a quick read and leaves you wondering about greed and politics. Vermont’s real governor recently outlined his idea to conduct a targeted marketing campaign to attract selected people to come and populate Vermont because the state population continues to decline while the cost of living keeps escalating. Due to the state’s economic shortcomings and political polarization it is unlikely agreement can be found on issues related to Radio Free Vermont such as developing a carbon tax or universal health insurance…let alone secession [sic].
Roller skiing, the non-snow equivalent of cross country skiing, was developed as early as the 1930s and it was used as a way to train for cross country ski racing as early as the 1950s. Today roller skiing is a low-impact high-intensity workout that is a full body exercise and easy on the knees.
Roller ski gear uses short skis on wheels with mounted bindings that enable a cross country ski boot to connect. Factors in selecting roller skis include durability, smoothness of the ride, matching skier ability, the road condition and the type of training that is desired. There are different products for classic and skate roller skiing and prices for skis range from $99 - $500.
Roller skis are much improved compared to the old products. Cami Thompson Graves, head women's Nordic Ski Team at Dartmouth College stated that "roller skis closely simulate cross country skiing, especially skate skiing."
A local retailer commented that "after the last winter Olympics, there was a worldwide recreational enthusiasm for roller skiing." He also said that the fastest growing region for product sales is the American Sunbelt. There are more than 50 roller ski models for different uses available for every budget and ability level. Roller ski enthusiasts are mostly cross country skiers who want to continue training after the snow melts.
Classic roller skis usually use wider small diameter wheels while skate ski wheels would have narrow large diameters. The difference involves speed, wear ability, handling rough road conditions (cracks or debris), and getting a similar feel to skiing. Roller ski construction involves weight, flex, and durability and are available in aluminum, wood, or composite materials.
Softer and wider wheels provide a smoother and slower ride. Hard wheels will be faster but can vibrate excessively on rough pavement. Ski poles have rubberized tips that resist slipping when planted on pavement rather than the metal tips used to dig into snow. Accessories are available for speed reducers and brakes to control speed on steep downhills, but not all models are compatible for adding them.
According to Coach Thompson Graves, "for safety on the pavement, it is important to wear helmets and high visibility clothing and be aware of the road conditions particularly at the bottom of hills."
Learning to roller ski can be a challenge even for advanced skiers and it is reported to be more difficult than inline skating. First timers should expect it to take some to get comfortable on roller skis but once you get the feel, you'll emulate sliding on the snow while you wait for the flakes to fly once again. Here's a primer on roller skiing techniques for first timers:
A video from Gear West provides more information including what is needed to get started roller skiing and one of the most important aspects - how to slow down:
Using the simple premise that women's products need to be different from men's, some cross country (XC) ski companies went to work designing lines of women's skis and boots that incorporate various differences between the male and female physical characteristics and their interests. For example, women generally have narrower feet, so companies have built boots to accommodate this difference. A woman's whole center of gravity may be shifted compared to a man, which means that application of force from the legs to the skis is shifted, so different flexes in a ski are appropriate.
Some product differences are cosmetic (feminine colors) but they can also address fundamental interests such as stability or downhill control. Moreover, they are not just for the touring lines—companies recognize the need for women's products in each equipment category, from touring to backcountry to performance and racing.
Jan Guenther owner of Gear West, a retail dealer in the Minneapolis area commented that women are often shorter and lighter than men so they might be matched to a ski with a shorter length or softer flex that corresponds to their ability and skiing goals.
Alpina Sports designed a line of women's XC ski boots after analyzing 2,500 women's feet using a patented Optical Measurement System and 3D Scanner to arrive at the "ideal" proportions. The fit of the Alpina's women's boots is dramatically different than the typical men's - women are often sold differently lasted and smaller sized boots. The flex patterns are totally altered, the heel pockets are much narrower, and the cuffs are redesigned for the slightly different calf/ankle configuration of a woman.
Leading brand Fischer is making a big splash with its women's XC line of skis and boots referred to as the My Style collection. The skis have a stable platform and excellent grip and the package includes color-coordinated skis, boots, poles, and a ski bag. The skis with names such as Inspire, Mystique, Desire, and Passion include a Fashion product line and the Sport line option.
These skis are configured lower than their unisex counterpart to account for lighter body weights and designed for the classic technique with less effort required. The ski camber is adjusted to a lower height (from the floor or snow) so it will accommodate the skier who can use less energy to get the ski base waxless grip pattern on to the snow. And there's a new specially developed, very light binding for fitness-oriented women that is very user-friendly with an automatic step in/out mechanism.
Fischer has 14 models of women's boots ranging for high performance skate and classic to recreational and off track backcountry. Behind the fashionable designs lie numerous specific developments for enhanced female performance on the trails. Additionally the individual models are tuned to the varied individual skills and sporting ambitions of the respective skier.
Salomon Nordic has women-specific boot models in classic, skate, and combi (can be used for either skate or classic skiing). These boots include lightweight carbon chassis, heel adjustments and dialed-in flex for women.
Mariah Frye-Colie of Cross Country Ski Headquarters, a Michigan cross country ski retail and area operation commented, "Women like to feel good with product options that flatter a women's body, but also are functional and comfortable. The Nordic ski manufacturers have woken up to the demand and it's great to have more feminine equipment and clothing." Photos: Fischer My Style XC Comfort Pro My Style Boot and Fischer Spirit Crown My Style Ski. For women's XC ski and snowshoe event listings click the Women's Page.
About half of all snowshoers are women, who snowshoe to experience nature, to exercise with friends and family, for backcountry access, and to have outdoor fun throughout the winter. The various snowshoe companies have been catering to this market by offering a broad selection of women's-specific snowshoe technologies recreation and fitness, but do the women's snowshoes go beyond just a change in cosmetics?
Tubbs Snowshoes pioneered the development of women's-specific snowshoes by offering patented binding technologies that custom fit women's boot sizes and by ergonomically engineering frames that are tapered at the tip and tail to accommodate women's shorter strides. The result was lightweight, comfortable, high-performance snowshoes and many of the other brands have followed suit.
There are a few differences between Tubbs' men's and women's snowshoes. On average, women have a narrower stance and shorter gait, so women's snowshoes are narrower in width. Women's average weight range is both more light weight and a smaller range than men's, so they provide snowshoes in a shorter size for women, longer for men. The Tubbs men's and women's bindings differ, providing the optimal fit for the average women's boot size and volume range, versus a larger average men's boot size and volume range. Foot size also affects the optimal position for the heel lift, so the placement of the heel lift on men's snowshoes varies from the placement on women's snowshoes.
The Atlas Snowshoes Company conducted gait studies and biomechanics research to create snowshoes that enable women to hike and run with the most natural stride possible, while making the snowshoes both comfortable and lightweight. The research revealed that women have a greater Q-angle (at the knee where the thigh bone angles in from a woman's wider hips) and abducted gait that create specific issues when snowshoeing. Women also tend to pronate (collapsing arches) pointing to the need for bindings to support the arch of the foot.
According to the people at MSR, the studies conducted by Tubbs clearly showed male/female anatomical differences. However, when these differences are translated into physical products the design changes are not as noticeable. For example, women generally walk with a narrower gait than men. Therefore, a very narrow snowshoe would suit women better, but the snowshoe width has a direct impact on flotation so the final design can't be too narrow. The ideal width snowshoe for women is a balance between very narrow to accommodate gait and wider for adequate flotation.
MSR believes that it is important to look beyond the measurements and understand how the snowshoes feel. Thousands of hours of field testing showed that subtle differences are noticeable. The major male/female differences with men's and women's versions of MSR are with decks and bindings. The women's deck shape is optimized for snowshoe performance (traction & flotation) and a female gait. The bindings are sized to meet the proportions of a women's footwear. There is also specific MSR technology such as Axis™ Gait Technology (Women's Lightning Ascent Snowshoes), which allows women to compensate for varying degrees of toe-out or toe-in. This technology provides laterally adjusting the bindings independently of the frame, ensuring efficient, parallel-tracking snowshoes regardless of a women's natural toe-out or toe-in stance. This means that the binding itself can swivel on the snowshoe to adjust for varying degrees of natural toe direction allowing binding alignment with your natural stance rather than forcing you to point your feet directly ahead.
Yukon Charlies Snowshoes has the YC Pro II Series women's snowshoes, which are designed with features specific to the needs of the female snowshoe enthusiast. The rockered V shape tail enhances performance and allows for a more natural stride. These snowshoes are lighter, stronger and more reactive than any of the company's other women's snowshoes.
Yukon Charlies's Advanced Series for women is a feature-packed "go anywhere" snowshoe is designed by women, for women. The rocker V tail allows for a natural stride from a walk to an aerobic sprint, while the integrated heel lift and the axle system makes Yukon Charlie tout them as their best women's snowshoe ever.
Redfeather Snowshoes has three styles of Hike snowshoes with the SV2 pull handle binding. There's also a choice to get the snowshoes in a kit with poles and a bag. The Redfeather Hike has sizes of 22, 25, 30 (inches) for women up to 150, 175, and 200 lbs.
Tubbs Snowshoes and Atlas Snowshoes have shown the greatest commitment to women's snowshoe products and they are probably the largest snowshoeing product brands. Tubbs Snowshoes has 11 models for women (in seemingly every snowshoe category) including Flex ESC, Flex TRK, Flex ALP, Flex RDG, Flex Vrt, Wilderness, Mountaineer, Frontier, XPlore, and Xpedition.
Atlas Snowshoes has six options for women including the Electra 8 and 9, Endeavor, Fitness, Race, and Run.
Few of the snowshoe companies invest in marketing directly to women but the Tubbs Snowshoe event "Romp to Stomp Out Breast Cancer" Series, is very popular focused on women. This year's event at Frisco Nordic Center in Colorado was attended by more than a thousand people! The series, which has been hosted at sites across North America has raised funds and awareness since 2003 bringing in more than $2.8 million for the fight for a cancer cure.
Whether the trail conditions are light fresh snow, crust, slush or ice, women want to trust their snowshoes for all-condition durability, excellent traction, flex for control, and comfort. Women are coming to expect that their snowshoes are specific to their needs and built to withstand frequent use offering many seasons of recreation, fitness and adventure. Photo: Women at Woodstock Inn & Resort
When it is time to go skiing or snowboarding it only takes me a few minutes to get out the door. Of course, it takes some time to dress with base layer, selected socks, and top (ski shirt) and bottom (ski pants). I admit that it may be a bit obsessive to organize a "get away" bag of accessories; but the next step to get on the snow quickly entails reaching into my oversized bag that is in my living room to get the accessories needed.
For XC SKIING the bag includes the following:
3 pairs of xc ski gloves including light for spring-like warm days, regular winter days, and extra insulated for cold days;
Belt pack that has emergency (hand and toe warmers, matches, knife, repair tool, sun cream, scraper, compass, and some speed wax. Depending on how cold it is, I might add a neck gaiter to the pack and often a spare pair of light gloves to replace wet gloves;
There is also a water bottle in a net pouch on the belt pack and a very old wrapped granola bar in a zipped side pocket;
1 pair of sunglasses in a case;
3 headbands for warm, regular and colder days;
1 hat and 2 skull caps (new and old);
2 neckgaiters;
2 headlights (you need to have the extra one for your spouse or a friend to ski at night);
Earbuds;
Additional hand and toe warmer packs and sun cream.
Obviously, skiers who use waxable skis have an assortment of waxing paraphernalia. I use only waxless skis and only occasionally hot wax my ski bases, so I keep my waxing items in a separate bag in the garage.
As a snowboarder, I keep some additional items for SNOWBOARDING in the accessories bag, which include the following:
Helmet;
2 pairs of gloves for regular and cold weather and a pair of extra glove liners;
3 pairs of goggles including an extra old pair with dark lenses and a pair with yellow lens for overcast days;
1 runaway strap (some ski areas still require it);
1 small accessory bag that includes an extra stomp pad, 5 different replacement binding straps, spare boot laces, 2 runaway straps, bag with various binding screws and washers; chunk of hard wax, tin of paste wax, and antifog lens cleaner in rub-on and spray versions.
The value of this preparedness bag is untold. Within the bag, the gloves are kept clipped together so it is easy to find a pair when needed. When getting ready for a ski trip near or far, the bag can be thrown in the car and that eliminates the need to worry about remembering any accessories. My daughter has followed my lead and created her own accessories bag. This winter when she was on college break, we were able to get out the door in less than 10 minutes from the time that we agreed to go snowboarding. And that includes checking the ski area website for conditions and the trail/lift report.
When going on nearby ski outings, I often will do a test ski on the short trails from my driveway to decide about the temperature and snow conditions. Afterward, I can easily dip into the bag to change any of the accessories that I need. Next is selecting the skis or snowboard, getting into the car, and away I go. Living so close to xc ski trails and alpine ski areas is indeed a blessing, but being organized makes it so easy to focus on what counts, which is getting outdoors and on to the snow.
Recently, there was news in the business world that the projected sales of wearable computers would reach 585 million units and billions of dollars within a few years. These computers include various sensors or displays worn on or placed in the body that perform activity tracking. You've probably seen wristbands and smartwatches. Is it over-hype or will sales skyrocket similar to the IPhone or GoPro camera? Will consumer attitudes and adoption rates drive and accelerate this market segment?
Wearable technology information was featured in an InsideOutdoor Magazine article including survey feedback, the current situation, and the future of wearable computers. The early applications of wearable technology serve active and fitness-minded consumers. Wrist-worn devices can monitor and communicate information about motion, sleep, location, heart rate, and other body functions or health metrics such as steps taken, calories burned, etc. Concepts such as "fitness optimization" and the "quantified self" are currently chic and in 2013 there were nearly 5 million activity tracker units sold. Venture capital for biosensing wearables multiplied ten times between 2011 ($20 million) and 2013 ($229 million). It was cited that 10 million activity trackers were to be shipped in 2014 along with 7 million smart watches.
Companies that are already in store display cases include Nike, Fuelband, and FitBitForce…but in short time watch for a wearable tech tsunami led by Apple, Samsung, Google, and others with their smart watches, glasses, and so on.
The surveys show that 10% of Americans are strong candidates for early adoption of this technology. There are statistics showing those who are interested desire geo-tracking, fitness cues, goals, rewards, and the ability to share or compete with a group.
Among American adults, 46% are at least a little interested, while 53% are not at all interested in wearables. Many people can not envision any benefit of wearables or view it as just another fad. Many people are currently uninformed about wearables and don't understand the need for such technology. About 17% will consider wearables when the price drops and the "bugs" have been worked out and 19% say they will never buy a wearable device. Interest is strongest among younger consumers but most want the technology to meet their needs better or replace technology they already use. Research about smart watches regarding gender showed men who are generally more gizmo-friendly (52%) are more likely than women 40% to be a little interested.
Factors for adoption and utilization for any products include quality, fit, utility, aesthetics, out-of-the box ease, etc. Outdoor recreation has already applied wearable tech to things such as insulation, moisture management and anti-odor, insect deterrent, and sunscreen. But we'll see touch-button materials to operate portable devices, solar panel materials to charge devices, monitors for concussions, and the delivery of various analytics for performance optimization (ski turns, paddle stroke, golf swing, etc.).
Applications with apparel, for health and training needs, and protective sports gear are only the beginning. Frankly, the options for wearable technology extend beyond activity trackers and biosensors and currently the use of wearable technology is just beyond our imagination.
Nordic walking (or ski walking) is taking off and the Human Kinetics book entitled Nordic Walking for Total Fitness by Suzanne Nottingham and Alexandra Jurasin has got it covered. For those who are unfamiliar, Nordic walking is a fitness activity that combines walking with specially designed poles to engage the upper body muscles.
Trekking (hiking with poles) and Nordic walking are two different activities that use very different poles and techniques. It may sound silly, but perhaps "walking is not just walking." The pole angle, weight, grip, and straps are different between the aforementioned modes of walking. The Nordic walking pole is designed to allow your hands to relax in order to target the larger wrapping muscles of the back. But using poles of any kind automatically stimulates your spine and all of the muscles around it, even with inefficient technique. When walking, the key postural muscles of the core and upper body are engaged.
Nordic Walking for Total Fitness outlines the health and fitness benefits and the enhancement of body posture that result from the activity. Equipment including poles, shoes, apparel, pedometers, and heart rate monitors are covered.
There are photos for every segment of the book showing technique progressions, fitness exercises, power training, and variations for balance, agility, and flexibility. Common technique errors are also reviewed as well as uphill and downhill techniques, advanced cardio training, and drills for strength training and calorie burning.
The book also includes fitness assessments, sample workouts for varying levels of interests from first timer to cross training triathletes. There are also suggestions about customizing your program. Training program recommendations are offered for building distance, fluctuating daily intensity, and rest days. If this all sounds a bit like overkill, that's because it is, particularly if you are a recreational fitness enthusiast but you need read only as much of the book as you feel is relevant to your personal situation.
I've been a Nordic Walker for a few years and found many of the claimed attributes in the book regarding posture and exercise to be true. I've always been in search of a way to decrease the amount of time spent exercising, so I was sold when I heard that using the poles increases caloric burning by 40 percent. Being a cross country skier, it is easy to quickly master Nordic walking. After a summer of Nordic walking, I noticed a marked improvement in my cross country ski poling in terms of strength and timing. It seemed that I increased the amount of forward momentum that was attributable to poling and I was able to pole stronger and longer when skiing.
Nordic Walking for Total Fitness provides a foundation for anyone, ranging from those just looking for an activity to lose weight to health aficionados interested in taking it to higher levels of fitness.
Nordic Walking for Total Fitness is available for $19.95 plus shipping from Human Kinetics at www.humankinetics.com or call 217-351-5076.
“Winter’s Children: A Celebration of Nordic Skiing” by Ryan Rodgers is the story of Nordic skiing in the Midwest including its star athletes and races, and its place in the region’s social fabric of winter recreation. The book provides a look at the earliest ski teams and touring clubs; the evolution of XC skis, gear and fashion; and the ongoing effort to establish and maintain a vast trail network across the Minnesota state park system. 400 pages illustrated with vintage photography and ski posters. University of Minnesota Press www.upress.umn.edu/book-division
“Celebrate Winter: An Olympian’s Stories of a Life in Nordic Skiing” by John Morton is a collection of articles, commentaries, and stories covering his two decades as a Nordic ski competitor including coach for Nordic skiing and biathlon. There are behind-the-scenes perspectives of 10 Winter Olympic games that Morton has attended as an athlete, coach, biathlon team leader, chief of course for biathlon events and an enthusiastic fan of U.S. cross country skiers. Celebrate Winter is available in paperback from Ingram or Amazon ISBN 9780578839127 and as an ebook for Kindle and other tablets.
"Cross-Country Skiing" by J. Scott McGee with excellent photographs by Luca Diana is the newest edition on the topic and it is easy-to-understand with plenty of photos. It is among the Falcon Guides and Basic Illustrated series from Morris Book Publishing. McGee describes equipment selection, learning the basic techniques, planning and safety and 100 pages of everything about cross country skiing.
McGee is out of Jackson Hole, Wyoming and he knows his stuff even though he omitted XCSkiResorts.com from his list of websites. This book is $12.95 and can be purchased at www.falcon.com.
Check out these books reviews at Nordic Walking for Total Fitness Book or The Search for Dragon Proof Snow - A New Children’s Tale or Your Brain on Nature - Book Review of The Nature Fix
"Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain" by Bruce Tremper is a new edition that is easy-to-understand and accessible for snowsport novices as well as technically insightful snow safety veterans. Approximately 150 people die in avalanches each year and thousands more are lucky enough to survive them without injuries.
This manual is ideal for backcountry xc skiers, snowshoers, snowmobilers and others and it is organized according to the structure of American Avalanche Association classes and it has been reviewed by peer experts.
Staying Alive covers different avalanche types, judging terrain's hazard level, routefinding and safe travel essentials. Rescue strategies and an analysis of human nature versus danger is also included. The 304-page paperbound book has 235 charts and illustrations and 60 photos, and it is available from The Mountaineers Books for $18.95.
"The Story of Modern Skiing" by John Fry is a book viewed by ski industry insiders as the definitive account of the revolution in ski equipment, technique, resorts, and competition that took place after World War II. It is 408 pages, has 86 photos and maps, a timeline, and an index of more than 1,000 names and places. Jean Claude Killy calls it a remarkable memoir and history of the sport.
The book manages to capture the essence of xc skiing in about 15 pages (though there are a few xc ski writers that could create a separate book on the topic of modern xc skiing), but the book would be a monument to anyone that is into skiing.
You can get it on Amazon but for a personally signed copy send a check of $29.95 ($29 for additional copies) to author John Fry, Editorial, 23 East Lake Drive, Katonah NY 10536. Include the name (s) of the person (s) whom you want the book dedicated to, plus address where you want the book (s) shipped to.
Another resource book of xc ski and snowshoe trails by First Ascent Press is "Ski Trails of Southwest Montana." This 112-page book by Melynda Harrison has 30 xc ski and snowshoe trails around the Greater Yellowstone region of Big Sky, Bozeman, and the Paradise Valley. The book is $16.95 and can be ordered at http://www.firstascentpress.com/ski-trails-volume1.html
The book "Cross Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness" by Steve Hindman is available from The Mountaineers Books. Steve is a long-time Northwest PSIA certified instructor and former National Nordic Demo Team, who participated in the XCSkiResorts.com Top 10 Page panel of experts.
"Cross-Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness" provides techniques demonstrated in step-by-step photos, special learning activities to reinforce instruction, sidebars for trouble-shooting common problems and matching technique to terrain and snow conditions and tips for the whole family including 10 activities for teaching kids to xc ski with fun and games.
The book acknowledgement of contributors and photographers is a virtual who's who in the xc ski industry. It is 240 pages and it can be purchased for $19.95 at www.mountaineersbooks.org
Dick Hall and friends whip up a tasty batch of innovative teaching tips in the movie "The Joy of Telemark Skiing." It is the perfect blend of clear and precise instruction, great music, and inspirational skiing.
Dick Hall is one of the forefathers of American telemark skiing and the founder of the North American Telemark Organization (NATO, the peaceful one). This organization, which is now defunct was an educational resource for two decades and has helped 40,000 people master telemark and backcountry skiing. Hall created and conducted one of the world's largest and oldest telemark skiing parties at Mad River Glen in Vermont.
If you are interested in getting one of the NATO telemark videos contact Hall at nato@gmavt.net.
And in the words of Dick Hall, "Ski Hard, Play Fair, and Have Fun."