Would anybody like to start a XC skiing thread in the Meeting Room?

[Kolesar]

I am most interested in talking about equipment, but trip reports and training would be fun, too. There have been many changes to XC ski equipment lately and I cannot find good information on it. Nonskiers can even visit the thread for "inspiration" to go skiing.

Cross country skiing is great if you live in a small country"--Steven Wright

[prolesunited]

1. Since I have absolutely NO knowledge of this

I certainly can't start the thread, but I would be interested in reading it and posting questions. Somebody recommended that it might serve as a good replacement for cycling during the winter. :hi:

I'm sure with the amount of northerners we have here, there must be other XC skiers here.

[Festivito]

2. I haven't bought any in years.

I opted for waxable skis. Despite the little messiness, I'd still STICK with it. Non waxable skis are good at the freezing point, but have less and less advantage as the temperature moves away from 32.

Wear thin nylon socks and warm socks when getting fitted for shoes. A good place will even put different size shoes on each foot. Some people heat up quickly and need less sockage; I need thicker socks.

Know your weight. It'll make a difference.

Last year, during a big snow storm I got to use them once again to get over my girlfriend's house. She was impressed and I needed warming. I see it a worthwhile investment, now that I'm old.

[Kolesar]

3. We are getting technical already

I have been using waxable all along (except my skate skiis). I would like to get an extra set of skiis for that hard to wax weather around freezing also.

Ski dealers claim that some great strides (yes, strides) have been made in ski technology lately, making the flex area much more responsive. I wish I knew what those strides were.