Clothing
and Equipment
Be sure that everyone is dressed properly for
the weather.
Just like downhill skiing and snowboarding it is necessary
to wear layers for this sport.
Layers are best so that
they can be removed if temperatures change. A cold
skier is an unhappy skier. Without
proper clothing the cross country skiing experience could
turn out
to be less than satisfying.
You need the proper gear to keep you warm and to allow for
free movement. When dressing for cross country skiing you
should always wear layers to compensate for changeable
weather conditions and temperatures. The principle of
wearing layers is the same as in cold weather running and
hiking. Cross-country skiing is more like walking or running
than downhill skiing.
This will require
long underwear, a sweater, waterproof jacket and pants,
helmet, goggles and gloves/mittens.
Carry a
backpack for lunch, necessary supplies, and extra clothing.
Insulated
underwear: You should start with comfortable
polypropylene long underwear. This material, unlike cotton,
dries quickly and absorbs sweat therefore it keeps you warm.
Approximate cost is $30.
Wool sweater:
After your long underwear the next step is to create an
insulating second layer of ski clothes. This should be
comprised of at least one layer of a wool sweater or
turtleneck. A wool sweater will cost about $30 - $50.
Jacket:
You'll want to wear a waterproof jacket t
hat
you can move in. Cross country jackets are slim
fitting and more contoured to the body. However, if you
have a downhill jacket most likely it will be fine for
cross country skiing.
Ski Pants:
Cross Country ski pants have a slimmer fit and are designed
to allow movement that is specific to this type of skiing.
Gloves or mittens: Gloves must be water resistant and should be sleek and insulated. Bulky gloves will get in the way. The price of glove/mittens will range anywhere
from $15 to $35.
Socks: Many
people like two layers of socks, a thin layer to transport
moisture and a thicker layer for warmth and cushioning.
Remember they must come above the boot for comfort. Approx. cost
$12.
Helmets:
Helmets are not
required for cross country skiing.
Hat:
A warm hat is necessary to keep your head
and ears warm. There are many fashionable hats available to
coordinate with your outfit.
Sport Sunglasses: 100% UVA protected. Approx. cost $50.
Scarf: Prevents heat from escaping between the jacket
and the hat. Approx. cost $20.
Industry-wide, cross country ski gear is some of the best
designed and most affordable outdoor sports equipment
available. To go skiing you will absolutely need the
following: skis with bindings attached, poles, and boots.
 |
Skis -- $55 - $125 |
 |
Bindings - $45- $50 |
 |
Boots $50 - $150 |
 |
Poles $20 -$25 |
Packages
are available for approximately $175 and will include skis,
poles, boots and bindings.
take into consideration in most situations you will need some or all of
the following: accommodations, travel, lift tickets, meals and
equipment. Equipment can be either rented or purchased. The difficulty
with purchasing equipment for children is that they are constantly
growing. Don’t be tempted to buy equipment too big for them to grow
into because it will make skiing difficult and it could result in
injury.
See