How to start cross-country skiing on a budget – FasterSkier.com

The end of the semester is approaching for the students. They try to spend more time with their family and friends. To complete all the homework, students may need to spend sleepless nights and bury themselves in books. In some cases, they turn to math homework help to be home for Christmas and New Years.

Of course, not everyone likes the idea of ​​being locked up with loved ones. Many students prefer to spend their vacations and vacations in the cold winter air. The United States has many scenic locations great for cross-country skiing. These include:

• SilverStar Mountain Resort
• Sun Valley Nordic Center

Any of these places is a great place to start the sport. But can a student get started in cross-country skiing on a budget? Even if there are limits, it is not impossible. First of all, however.

Learn the basics

Before choosing equipment, it is important to know the basics. Three pieces of equipment are necessary to practice cross-country skiing:

The material is lighter and more flexible compared to alpine skiing. Skis and poles are thinner and longer. Ski boots look and look like hiking boots. There are two main versions of cross-country skiing: classic skiing and skate skiing.

In classic skiing, people use forward and backward stride movements. They seem to be running or walking. This simplicity makes the genre perfect for beginner cross-country skiers. Classic skiing is even ideal for families entering the snow for the first time.

Skate-skiing is more like ice skating. It includes the push of the skis to the sides to propel you. This method is fun and more active. But it is suitable for more experienced people.

Get cheap goods

There are many places to buy ski equipment. You can find them in online stores, retail stores, and classifieds websites. And you don’t even have to spend much of your student budget on the equipment. It is entirely possible to find good equipment for less than $ 400. A pair of waxless touring skis, bindings, and boots can cost as little as $ 350.

Entry-level skis and poles are generally heavier than their more expensive counterparts. They also tend not to last for many years. There is also a problem with buying used equipment. Some of them can be outdated and difficult to manage.

Craigslist sellers often post ads for skis used by their fathers or family members. That is why no one should be looking for material that is more than ten years old. Many professionals recommend renting equipment before purchasing it. This way beginners can decide if they like the sport. Equipment rental prices can be as low as $ 20 per day.

Most ski resorts rent many types of ski equipment on site. It’s a lot easier than renting it online to strangers and having to drag it onto your back. Now that that’s taken care of, it’s time to talk about what you should and shouldn’t be wearing when cross-country skiing.

Knowing what to wear and what not to wear

You will have a bad time with this sport if you don’t have the right clothes. Since your budget is limited, there is no need to purchase fancy items used by professional skiers. Regular winter clothes will do.

No matter the weather, the body will get hotter from the movement. That is why it is best to dress with several layers of clothing. The inner layer should keep the body dry. The outer layer should be breathable and allow snow to fall easily. Depending on the temperature, there may be several or few layers in between.

A good pair of gloves is essential. They should be comfortable enough so that you don’t have to take them off and expose your skin to the cold. This way you win time on fitting boots and removing extra layers of clothing when you are warmer.

Normal pants like jeans and denim pants will not work. When the snow melts, it will cling to it like a sheet. You will soon be cold and soggy. This is why it is best to wear rain or snow pants that are very water repellent.

When it comes to socks, one diaper is enough for most people. But if you tend to get blisters, it’s best to wear two layers of socks. If you still have blisters, put adhesive bandages on the sensitive areas. Most cross-country ski boots cost less than alpine or downhill ski boots.

Look for comfortable boots

Almost all classic boots have a zipped gaiter and laces to protect the feet from ice, snow and cold. To provide more stability, most of them have molded internal buttresses. Depending on the purpose of the boot, the soles are either plastic or carbon. Boots for recreational activities often have soles made of flexible plastic.

When buying or renting boots locally, it is best to try them on before you go. In some cases, the shoes that caught your eye can be uncomfortable. There is nothing worse than spending a few hours with rough heels or blisters on your toes. The boots should fit but not be too tight on your feet. The heels should be firmly locked, with room to wiggle your toes. If the boots are too loose, snow and cold will get inside.

You should also choose boots suitable for ski bindings. Some boots are only suitable for certain types of skis. It is best to consult with an expert working in the store or resort where you are staying. They will help you find the right combination.

Conclusion

Cross-country skiing is cheaper than other skis. It is not necessary to buy lift tickets like for alpine skiing. All you need is a pair of poles, skis and boots. You can enjoy the good weather and the scenery at little or no cost. It’s a great experience for both solo skiers and those with friends and family. Either way, the memories will last a lifetime. Try and find out for yourself!