Key takeaways
- Store skis in a cool, dry place and wipe them dry after use. Keep the bases clean and avoid leaving them on hot surfaces.
- Scrape and wax the glide zones as the maker advises. Waxable skis also need kick wax to be applied and removed.
- Dress in layers and carry water on longer outings. Cold weather and exertion can create hazards, so check the weather and trail conditions.
- Backcountry skiing may involve avalanche terrain or isolated areas. Take appropriate training and equipment, and do not travel alone in uncertain conditions.
- Have bindings inspected if they look worn or fail to hold your boot securely.
The best cross country ski depends first on technique: classic skis with a grip zone or waxless base suit most beginners and trail skiers, skate skis suit fit skiers who want speed on groomed corduroy, and a wider backcountry or touring ski suits those heading off the tracks. Match the ski type to the terrain you will really ski, then get length and stiffness matched to your weight with help from a ski shop or the maker’s sizing chart.
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At a Glance: Cross Country Ski Types and Example Lines
| Type / example lines | Best for | Key points the makers describe | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waxless classic (Fischer, Rossignol, Madshus, Atomic, Salomon, Peltonen lines) | Beginners and recreational skiers on groomed tracks | Patterned or mohair base provides grip without applying kick wax | Can be slower than waxed skis and may ice up in some snow |
| Waxable classic | Skiers wanting better glide and grip control | Grip comes from kick wax in a defined zone; requires waxing for conditions | Needs wax knowledge and time |
| Skate skis | Fit skiers wanting speed on wide groomed trails | Short, stiff skis with glide-focused bases; used with a skating technique | Needs groomed skate lane; steeper learning curve |
| Combi (classic and skate) | Those who want both techniques | Sold as a package, often for resorts and rentals; compromise performance | Not as specialised as dedicated skis |
| Backcountry or touring skis (Fischer, Madshus, Rossignol, Salomon lines) | Ungroomed trails, forest and rolling terrain | Wider, with metal edges and sometimes a scale or skin grip system | Heavier; slower on tracks |
Cross country ranges are renamed and updated often, and many brands release a new graphic or construction each season. Check the maker’s current catalogue for exact model names and stated specifications.
How to Choose Cross Country Skis
Classic or skate
Classic skiing uses a striding motion in tracks set into the snow. It is the easiest technique to learn and is the natural choice for beginners and families. Skate skiing resembles ice skating, with a push to the side on a smooth, wide groomed lane. It is faster and more demanding on fitness. If you are unsure, begin with classic. Many Nordic centres rent both, which lets you try before committing.
Waxless or waxable
Waxless skis have a textured pattern, commonly called fishscale or step, under the foot or a mohair insert that grips the snow. They need no preparation and perform decently across a range of conditions. Waxable skis have a smooth base with a defined kick zone where you apply grip wax. Reviewers say waxable skis can glide better and grip more consistently when waxed correctly, but they ask for time and knowledge. For a first pair, most guides point to waxless.
Length and stiffness
Length is chosen according to your weight and, for some brands, your height and ability. Makers publish sizing charts and flex recommendations; classic skis are traditionally a little longer than skate skis. The flex pattern matters because the ski needs to be stiff enough to keep the grip zone off the snow when gliding but soft enough to press the grip zone down when you kick. If you fall between sizes or are unsure, consult a ski shop. A mismatched flex is a common reason that waxable skis feel like they either slip or drag.
Bindings and boots
Binding systems have to match your boots. The two common systems are NNN (New Nordic Norm) and Prolink from Rottefella, and Salomon’s SNS-based Prolink was introduced to cooperate with the Salomon and Atomic lineup. Many modern skis come with a mounting plate or are sold with binding-ready plates. Check the system compatibility before buying boots and skis separately. Boot fit also matters: warm socks, a roomy toe box and ankle support suit touring, while performance boots are lower and stiffer.
Poles
Classic poles reach about the armpit to shoulder, and skate poles reach nearer the chin. Poles are usually bought separately. Basket size matters for soft snow.
Product Notes
Fischer
Fischer, based in Austria, offers a wide range of classic, skate and touring skis. Its waxless lines use a fishscale-style or mohair grip depending on the model, and its entry-level skis are popular in rental fleets and with beginners. Check the product page for the current construction of each model.
Rossignol
Rossignol makes recreational and racing cross country skis, including waxless beginner models and backcountry options. Reviewers and shops often cite it for reliable entry-level skis and a broad range of lengths.
Madshus
Madshus, a Norwegian maker, is known for racing and touring skis, including backcountry lines with metal edges. Reviewers value the touring models for balance and control off groomed trails.
Atomic and Salomon
These two brands share a binding heritage and offer mid-range recreational skis, skate skis and touring skis. They are common in shops that stock Prolink bindings and boots.
Peltonen and others
Smaller makers, including Peltonen from Finland, serve racers and fitness skiers with waxable skis and skate models. They suit skiers who are ready to learn waxing.
Fit, Care and Safety Notes
- Store skis in a cool, dry place and wipe them dry after use. Keep the bases clean and avoid leaving them on hot surfaces.
- Scrape and wax the glide zones as the maker advises. Waxable skis also need kick wax to be applied and removed.
- Dress in layers and carry water on longer outings. Cold weather and exertion can create hazards, so check the weather and trail conditions.
- Backcountry skiing may involve avalanche terrain or isolated areas. Take appropriate training and equipment, and do not travel alone in uncertain conditions.
- Have bindings inspected if they look worn or fail to hold your boot securely.
Decision Table: Pick X If …
| Pick this | If you … |
|---|---|
| Waxless classic | are new to the sport and ski groomed tracks |
| Waxable classic | want better glide and are happy to learn waxing |
| Skate ski | have access to wide groomed lanes and want speed and a workout |
| Touring or backcountry ski | ski ungroomed forest trails and need edges and stability |
| Combi package | want to try both techniques with one purchase |
Alternatives to Consider
- Rental or demo skis. Many Nordic centres rent skis, which lets you try lengths and styles before buying.
- Snowshoes. For deep or ungroomed snow and slower travel, snowshoes are simpler and cheaper.
- Used skis. Shops and local clubs often sell last season’s skis at lower prices, but have bindings and bases inspected.
Budget Tiers in Brief
Budget: entry-level waxless classic skis, often sold as packages with boots and poles.
Mid-range: better-quality waxless skis, entry skate skis and touring skis.
Premium: racing skis and high-end waxable models, which require tuning and good technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a beginner buy skate or classic skis?
Classic is generally easier to learn and works on both tracked and ungroomed trails. Skate skiing demands balance and a wide groomed lane. If you are unsure, rent first.
Are waxless skis good enough?
For recreation, yes. They give dependable grip without waxing and suit most conditions. Racers and fit skiers who want the best glide and grip often move to waxable skis.
How do I pick the right length?
Use the maker’s chart, which relies mainly on body weight. A ski shop can check the flex by pressing the ski underfoot. A wrong flex can make skis feel slippery or sluggish.
Do boots and bindings have to match?
Yes. NNN and Prolink-type systems are not interchangeable with older SNS profiles unless the maker says otherwise. Confirm compatibility before buying.
Can I use cross country skis in deep powder?
Narrow track skis sink in deep snow. Wider touring or backcountry skis give better flotation, but extended off-trail travel needs training and safety gear.
How often should I wax my skis?
It depends on use and conditions. Many skiers wax glide zones every few outings, and waxable skis need kick wax suited to the day’s temperature. Follow the guidance from the maker or a local shop.
