Cross-country skiing is gaining popularity in the winter season, because it is with the onset of cold weather that people begin to change their rollers and bicycles to the appropriate sports equipment. Measured walks with friends through the snowy forest can not be replaced with anything, since this atmosphere is remembered for a long time. Many athletes have a desire to ski, but this shell is not so easy to choose. Such equipment must be bought taking into account your own preferences and characteristics, so that you can enjoy it throughout the season.
Varieties
There are several types of cross - country skiing. Each is interesting in its own way, so you should not choose at random. First of all, you should deal with the features of the types of inventory, and then proceed to the purchase.
Today, three types of skis are distinguished , differing among themselves with the surface of movement and characteristics:
- combined;
- for skating;
- classic.
Inventory designed for the classic move is very popular. It was created for a well-groomed ski track, where it is required to start off immediately with two legs, doing a push with sticks. Such models are 210 centimeters in length. They have a tapered toe, and their back is equipped with hairpins for improved bonding with snow.
Skate options are designed for a smooth and well-rolled track. Skiing is not required at all. Skating on them is a bit like speed skating, where all muscle groups are involved. Unlike the previous ones, the length of these skis is only 190 centimeters (maximum). Athletes like them for their stiffness in the middle, thanks to which there is a chance to make a good push at the start.
Combined models are considered universal. They combine the characteristics of the two types described above. The maximum length reaches 205 centimeters, which indicates the possibility of movement in the two previous ways.
Product selection
Cross-country skiing should be chosen responsibly and meticulously. The first thing to do is pay attention to the cost, as each category has its own leaders. For simple walks, cheap models are quite suitable, the quality of which will make it possible to enjoy the process itself. Along with this, it is required to take into account the material of the manufacture of skis, as well as their own height and weight.
Material
You can buy cross-country skiing in Moscow at almost every sports store. The assortment contains options that are multicomponent in composition used in the creation of materials. In them, as a rule, there is not too much wood, and the top layer is made of plastic. You should not be afraid of such a surface, since it has several advantages:
- durability;
- ease;
- improved glide;
- does not require much effort when riding.
People who have never skated on plastic will be unusual at first. Such skis are recommended to be lubricated with special bonding grease. Over time, it will become clear that a plastic surface is more comfortable and practical than a wooden one.
Why consider height and weight
Modern cross-country skiing in Rostov, St. Petersburg, Tyumen, Moscow and other cities are actively selling closer to winter. During this period, even athletes can gain excess weight, so the choice of equipment according to this criterion will require special care. It’s quite easy to choose a product according to your own growth. The classics should be chosen 30 centimeters above themselves, and the skate - about 15 centimeters.
Weight is a more subtle issue. It is directly related to the stiffness of the shells. The crucial issue here is pushing skis into the snow and the strength of their resistance. This can only be verified empirically. Experts recommend trying any of these methods:
- Put the skis to each other with sliding sides, squeeze them with one hand at a level below the toe of the boot. Human strength should be enough to ensure that, with maximum compression, the distance between the surfaces is 1-1.5 cm.
- A method similar to the previous one involves squeezing the skis with both hands. Here they should touch along the entire length.
Notches
In Moscow, cross-country skiing is most often caught with notches, but they are much less popular. With their presence, as a rule, people choose models for the track with an average level of softness. If the snow is too hard or loose, such options will not work. Notches, of course, provide good traction, but require more attention. The owner will have to constantly lubricate them to prevent erasure.
Stick selection
In high-quality cross-country skiing, sticks play an important role. They are also selected according to some criteria. The main one is the riding style. Classics require sticks that literally rest on the armpits, skating - a little hurt the shoulder joint.
The most optimal option are sticks with large handles and paws. In addition, they must have an anatomical lanyard. All these indicators give athletes a chance to ride for a long time without fatigue and discomfort in the area of the hands.
Skiing
The instilling of sports and a healthy lifestyle from childhood is the key to strong immunity for the child in the future, so children's cross-country skiing is also popular. They will help not only provide good health in the winter, but also improve physical fitness.
Choosing equipment for the child should be based on the size and material of manufacture. Today there are plastic products for sale, as well as wooden and combined. For kids, it is best to choose wood options. But if there is a desire to purchase plastic, then there must be notches on them that will prevent slipping.
Kids who have never skied before should choose not very long models without sticks. As a rule, the size should be equal to the growth of a young athlete. To begin with, he must understand the specifics of riding and learn the basic movements, and then let him understand the sticks.
Children from 6 to 12 years old must choose the length of the skis more than their height by 20 cm. Sticks in this case should rest on the armpits. Adolescents under the age of 18 should choose skiing equipment. The principles that apply to adult skis can already apply here.
Accessories
Additional ski accessories, such as bindings, cross-country ski boots and the like, are essential attributes. Experienced athletes always get them complete with the basic equipment, providing themselves with a fun pastime.
And modern ski boots are not ordinary ski shoes, but a whole intricate product, due to which heat is kept in the legs. In addition, they reliably protect the lower limbs from injury and overload.
Footwear intended for skiing is allowed to be worn in heavy snow and slush. She is not afraid of almost no obstacles, but the sultry heat is an exception. During this period, wearing such shoes is simply impossible, since there will be too much heat.
In the manufacture of shoes, manufacturers take into account the structural features of the legs and, of course, the natural hygiene requirements. This is due to the fact that the lower limbs should not feel discomfort, since even the most minimal inconvenience can easily lead to serious consequences.
Boots come in three types:
- Combined. They are suitable for both types of skiing.
- Classic. They are used for ordinary skiing.
- Skate. Used by skate lovers.
As for children's shoes, it should be as warm and comfortable as possible. In addition, the size must be selected suitable, and not "for growth". This will help to eliminate discomfort while doing what you love.
Top manufacturers
The creation of skis and various devices for them involved in many industries. Each brand makes its own unique products, attracting the attention of customers more and more. Today, the range of products is quite wide, so when choosing, very often problems arise. There are companies known to most consumers and credible, and there are manufacturers who have recently appeared on the market, but managed to present products with amazing characteristics. It is because of this that buyers are often confused and do not know which purchase should be preferred. To make your task a little easier, you can consider the list of leading brands that have respect from people and a sufficient number of positive reviews.
Dynamic
The company, located in France, produces amazing budget cross-country skiing for sale, reviews of which always come only positive. Products are designed for beginner athletes, so everything is provided for them here. Most models are sharpened for the classic move, their design belongs to the category of lightweight, and the functionality is fully consistent with the cost. Such skis are quite durable and are easily matched to the height and weight of the athlete.
Comments
The opinions of people about the products of this manufacturer come down to one thing - the ideal ratio of value and quality. Buyers respond positively to the workmanship, appearance and comfort of the skis. Both adults and adolescents ride them wonderfully. Unfortunately, there is no special line for young athletes here, but this does not really scare consumers.
Tisa
The well-known Russian manufacturer produces perfect cross-country skiing for the local climate. In the assortment you can see children's models of the hybrid class, which are designed for a combined riding style, as well as classic options for adults. The goods are perfect for both beginners, taking only the first steps, and experienced athletes who skillfully handle such equipment. It is quite easy to master the basic skills of skiing with such skis, so you should not doubt the success of the classes.
What do the owners say
The first advantage that customers highlight is their adaptability to Russian climatic conditions. According to experienced skiers, other manufacturers make products that are focused only on their locality, without thinking about foreigners.
At least you can find comments about the functionality of the inventory and the variety of choices. On sale there are various children's and adult models, among which you can really choose something special that will surprise not only others, but also the owner.
Fischer
Austrian Fischer cross-country skiing amaze buyers with an interesting design solution and a variety of models. Initially, the company was engaged in the production of winter sleds and carts. Over time, the creators decided to expand the range and engaged in the active production of skis for different categories of the population. The cost of goods is radically different, so each person has the opportunity to choose the right option for himself.
Fischer cross -country skiing designed for sports slalom has stiffeners reinforced with titanium, a carbon nose, and an intricate core. People like them for their high quality and durability.
In 2006, brand products were recognized as the best at the Olympic Games in Turin. This achievement helped the company leap up and gain popularity.
Customer feedback
Fisher cross-country skiing attracts the attention of not only beginners, but also experienced athletes. They claim that the inventory is really very convenient and of high quality. Judging by consumer reviews, the products are really worthy of that kind of money, although the cost of the models cannot be called overpriced.
Madshus
A reliable manufacturer sells goods that are displayed on television screens in many countries. One of the most successful products is Skate cross-country skiing. This enchanting model (full name - Madshus Terrasonic Skate) is aimed at the class of professionals. It is distinguished by high quality workmanship, as well as attractive appearance.
What do people like
This brand has a lot of positive reviews. Customers like it for its high-speed product characteristics, interesting design and practicality. In the assortment there are both children and adult skis, which are actively bought up during the upcoming holidays. Many people are happy to present a gift from this brand to their loved ones and see happiness on the recipient's face.
As for the shortcomings, their brand does not have. This is not at all surprising, because the cost of goods speaks for itself. Absolutely everyone is comfortable with these skis, and no one can make substantial claims.
Athletes rejoice like children when they go for a walk with goods from this manufacturer. Thanks to this, winter is remembered for a long time as the best season of the year. And finally, a tip: if you are not a professional and are planning to go on a winter camp to relax in the winter or just decide to go skiing, then perhaps you should not first buy sports equipment. Indeed, today there is such a service as cross-country ski rental. Using our tips, you may well find the right pair for yourself for the first time.