XC skiing

Z

zen_grasshopper

Joined
Jul 6, 2004
Messages
19
Anybody here do any back country cross country skiing? I have decided to startup with XC skiing, but have only been on groomed trails. I thought it might be a good way to get out and about during the lovely SoDak winters.

Just curious if it is worth it or if I should stick to snowshoes?

Jon
 
I first started out with backcountry xc skis. The main difference is that they are a bit wider and have metal edges like downhill skis. The boot also has a much firmer clamp than a traditional xc ski. My binding and boots are Saloman.
The binding has a toe clamp, but there is also a wide raised ridge the matches the boot.
XS_Bindings_Boots.jpg

That allows a better side to side grip of your boot to the ski. I've done some pretty good hills with my backcountry skis.
XS_Boots.jpg

After I "mastered" the skis, I wanted to move on. I bought some Atlas snowshoes. Man was I DISAPPOINTED!!!! Skis are so much better in MY opinion.
You can move faster and not feel as tired with skis.
I'd take skis over snowshoes ANY day!
I've NEVER had much luck with snowshoes, but I have ALWAYS had great success with skis.
Yes, I think you should get some, but get backcountry skis, boots and bindings.
 
Last edited:
nice i was thinking the same thing. ive been wanting to get skis for a while. i used to go wiht my grandma as a kid but havent much. I do snowshoe and love gettin out in the snow makes winters more enjoyable. I think i might wait a couple months for the stuff to go on sale and be ready for next winter.
 
I haven't done any backcountry skiing.
I do enjoy snowshoes for the steep wooded hills.
 
I guess you got me there.....steep wooded hills would rule for snowshoes. I wouldn't even think of trying that with skis! I have tried it once and I kept catching trees and roots and other junk. That was a PAIN! Showshoes for sure there....but I live in Michigan and we don't have hills here...only snow covered garbage dumps :-)
 
Well since I live on the east side of South Dakota, I don't have to worry about any steep wooded hills!

To all, thanks for the info, I will give back country XC'ing a shot.

Jon
 
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