How to choose the right cross-country skis for height. How to choose skis for height and weight: ideal equipment for winter walks. What are fasteners

(XC ski, Nordic ski) - designed to move on relatively flat terrain by using the energy of the skier.

Cross-country skiing by skiing style are divided into several categories:
Skis for classic skiing, skis for skating, combined skis (Combi), touring skis backcountry.

Cross-country skiing by skill level skier can be divided into:
Skis for beginners, skis for intermediates, skis for experts, skis for athletes

1.1. Classification of cross-country skiing by skiing style

1.1.1. Cross-country skis for skating

With the skating style of skating, the skier resembles a skater with his movements: he pushes off the snow with the inside of the ski, transferring his body weight to the sliding ski. The movement is then repeated on the other leg. The skating style is ideal for well-rolled wide trails, it involves active work of the hands and body. Repulsion with sticks occurs in accordance with the rhythm of the footwork.

Skating skis, unlike skis for classic skiing, are shorter - the maximum length is 190-192 cm, and are rigid in twisting and in the longitudinal direction. Unlike a classic ski, a skating ski during a kick should not completely touch the snow with its middle part (the required gap is 2-3 mm), otherwise the kick will be less effective. Skis for skating can be distinguished by a blunt toe.

1.1.2. Cross-country skiing for classic skiing

In the classical style, the skis are located strictly parallel to each other on a specially built track.

Classic skis, compared to skating skis, are longer (maximum length 205-207 cm) and softer, and have a longer pointed toe. Less stiffness compared to skating is needed so that during the push the ski touches the snow with the middle part (block) and the holding ointment or notches “work”, then the ski will not slip back during the push. At the same time, classic skis should not be too soft, otherwise, while sliding, a block with a holding ointment or notches will prevent slipping and slow down the skier.

1.1.3. Combined skis (Combi)

Combined skis - skis designed for skating and classic skiing. Usually combined skis have a maximum length of no more than 200 cm. It is not advisable to produce combined skis with a length of more than 200 cm, in view of the fact that when skating, the heels of the skis will cling to each other. In their design, combined skis are closer to classic skis due to the fact that it is still possible to move on classic skis with skating, but on purely skating skis with classic skiing - no, because due to the high rigidity of the block (part of the ski under the boot) the skier there will be no repulsion phase.

1.1.4. Backcountry touring cross-country skis

Skis for extreme tourism (BACKCOUNTRY) are designed for lovers of ski trips in conditions where there are no ski slopes or recreational skiing for sports, tourist trips of various levels. They are distinguished by increased rigidity (they use the technology of a wooden type-setting wedge, sandwich, etc.), a wide, more than 59 mm, sliding surface - for off-road movement (virgin lands), in some models the ski is reinforced with a metal edging. These are relatively expensive skis that have passed a number of special tests for reliability, since the success of a hike or expedition, and sometimes the life of a person who has challenged the wild, depends on their quality.

1.2. Classification of skis by level of training

1.2.1. Cross-country skiing for beginners

1.2.2. Intermediate skiing

1.2.3. Expert skis

1.2.4. Skis for athletes

2. Characteristics of cross-country skis

In this section, we will focus on the characteristics of cross-country skiing. To select the optimal characteristics of a cross-country ski means to provide excellent glide under specific conditions. It is generally accepted that 60% of the sliding properties of skis are determined by the load distribution along the length of the ski (diagram), deflection and stiffness of the ski, another 20% - by the material, condition and structure of the sliding surface of the skis, and only the remaining 20% ​​- ski lubrication. In order to thoroughly understand what the ski glide depends on, we advise you to familiarize yourself with the Theoretical Fundamentals of Ski Glide on Snow.

2.1. Load distribution along the length of the ski

The distribution of the load along the length of the ski (diagram) is the distribution of the weight of the skier on the snow through the ski. Plot - the most obvious characteristic of a ski, which determines the glide in different conditions. Plots are distinguished depending on the type of running (skating, classic, walking) and temperature conditions (cold, warm, combined).

2.1.1. Diagrams depending on the type of stroke

2.1.1.2. Diagram of skis for skating

As you can see, in skating skis, the load is distributed over the surface in a completely different way. During the dot (lower part of the figure), it falls on two powerful "bumps", while the middle part of the ski is almost unloaded during the push, while rolling (upper part of the figure) there is no pressure in the central part of the ski.

2.1.2. Diagrams depending on temperature conditions

Let's consider two main types of plots: COLD plot, suitable for cross-country skiing in frosty weather and soft skiing, and WARM plot, suitable for warm weather and hard skiing. The difference between COLD and WARM diagrams is in the sharpness of the pressure peaks and in the length of the part of the ski that is involved in the glide.

2.1.2.1. COLD plot

Cold plot has increased in length, reduced in value pressure peaks under the front and rear of the ski, which evenly distributes the weight of the skier. A more uniform distribution of pressure in cold weather reduces the effect of the dry friction force, which prevails in frost, by increasing the area of ​​water friction, the resistance of which is much less than dry friction. On a soft track, the COLD plot is preferable due to the reduction of the plowing friction force.

2.1.2.2. WARM plot

WARM diagram has pressure peaks reduced in length and increased in value. This load distribution reduces the capillary attraction friction force, which creates the main resistance on a warm track, by reducing the contact area and reducing the "suction" effect. On a hard track, the WARM plot is preferable, as the control of the ski is increased by cutting the ski edge into the snow.

2.2. Rigidity of a cross-country ski

Modern sports cross-country skis have a deflection in the middle part of their design. If you place the ski on a flat surface, you will notice that the middle part of the ski "hangs" at a distance of 1-2 cm from the surface. With the application of a load from above, the ski will be pressed, and the stiffness of this "spring" is the stiffness of the ski.
The initial and middle segment of cross-country skis is performed in the same universal stiffness and varies depending on their length. The longer the ski, the stiffer they are and the better they are for tall or heavy skiers.
In the upper segment of racing skis, manufacturers divide each size into different stiffnesses, conventionally designating them as Soft, Medium, Hard, Extra Hard. Such a division is necessary for experienced skiers, as it helps to accurately select a pair according to the anthropometric characteristics of the athlete, his weight, the features of the running technique and physical data.
For various stroke techniques, skis with different stiffness in the block area are selected.
When choosing classic skis, you can use the following test:
- skis are placed on a flat surface and stand on them in such a way that the toes of the shoes are on the line of the center of gravity
- it is necessary to distribute the weight of the body evenly and ask the assistant to pass a thin sheet or probe 0.2 mm thick under the ski
If the skis are chosen correctly in terms of stiffness, then the sheet should move freely under the skis by 25-40 cm towards the toe, and in the opposite direction - to the end of the boot. If the probe moves forward a shorter distance, then stiffer skis should be selected. If the probe moves back 3-5 cm beyond the end of the boot, then softer skis should be selected.
If you transfer the body weight to one of the skis, then the probe or sheet of paper should move freely 10-15 cm forward from the center of gravity and half the length of the foot back. After transferring body weight to the toe, the probe or paper should be firmly clamped between the floor and the ski. If the skis meet the above requirements, then they are suitable for you in terms of stiffness.
When choosing skating skis and distributing the weight of the skier on both legs, the probe should move forward from the center of gravity by 40 cm and 5-10 cm back from the heel of the boot. After transferring body weight to one of the skis, the clearance should decrease by no more than 10 cm towards the tip of the ski. The gap should not end under the heel of the boot. When repulsed, there should be a gap of 30-40 cm.

2.3. Cross-country ski base material

In the production of modern skis, a plastic sliding surface is used. The first plastic skis used ABS plastic, which is easily washable and does not hold lubricant well, which is almost completely replaced from the ski manufacturing market by ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene UHMW-PE, with the exception of the cheapest models of some manufacturers. Large modern manufacturers make the sliding surface from synthesized ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (High Performance Polyethylene - HPPE). This thermoplastic material is used in industrial applications where low friction and high abrasion resistance are required. The common name for the material is P-Tex. It is made by pressing crushed polyethylene particles under high pressure to form a crystal lattice with amorphous zones filled with lower density polymers or special fillers. 5-15% filler is added to the material intended for ordinary mass skis and for frost - carbon particles with a size of 20 microns to remove electrostatics, as well as graphite and fluorocarbon compounds to improve glide. Carbon black makes the base of the ski black, but also somewhat reduces its wear resistance. Gallium compounds add thermal conductivity to the plastic, the same property as boron nitride, but this additive further reduces the ability to absorb moisture. Ultramarine pigment is used in skis without carbon black to create a pattern on the base and improve glide.
Ointments can be applied to the base of any ski - for sliding and holding. By itself, HPPE does not have a porous structure and does not absorb ski wax, however, under the influence of high temperature, the ointment penetrates into amorphous zones and is retained there. From a chemical point of view, ski lubricant changes the water-repellent properties of the sliding surface by changing the forces of surface tension, and also provides its lubrication, thereby reducing the friction force. Additives in ski waxes such as fluorine, graphite and molybdenum provide additional benefits to achieve high glide performance.
Also, a rubber strip can be recessed at the base of the ski in the block area. Usually there is “zero” in the designation, such skis are designed for positive wet skiing and have a rather narrow weather range of use. The modern oil-free version of repulsion is the attachment of a skin imitation under the block, which is indicated in the name of the ski as “skin”. Also, to hold the ski under the block, a special adhesive tape can be glued or various mechanical forms of hooks are used in the design, which do not prevent slipping, but work when repulsed.

2.4. The structure of the sliding surface of cross-country skis

The factory application of the structure to the sliding surface adapts the skis to strictly defined conditions of use: air temperature, humidity, snow conditions, style of movement. It also improves gliding by reducing the area of ​​contact with snow and reducing the suction effect as a result of breaking the water film formed during sliding. The pre-applied factory structure allows you to select the racing pair best suited to the weather and track conditions on race day.

Below are the structure types of Atomic and Salomon cross country skis:
- AC 3 - universal cold -8-17 C, cut into classics and fad, works especially well in Scandinavia;
- AC 4 cold -8-15 C, universal structure, cut into a skate, especially good at high humidity;
- AC 5 very cold -8-20 C, wide range, cut into a skate, but sometimes into a classic, works especially well in Central Europe
- AM 1 medium -3-10 C, universal, cut into both skate and classic, especially good for a mixture of new and artificial snow
- AM 2 medium -1-5 C, cut into NO WAX skis and skates, sometimes into classics, under fresh falling snow and gloss, wet snow
- AM 6 medium -1-8 C, universal structure, cut into a skate, but sometimes also into NO WAX and classics, into coarse-grained snow
- AM 7 medium -4-10 C, cut into classic and skate, universal structure on dry snow, works well on classic and in colder temperatures
- AW 1 warm -4-0 C, cut into classic and NO WAX, universal for wet snow and wet snow
- AW 7 warm -2-0 C, cut into skates and classics, under coarse-grained (spring) snow, additional manual knurling / cutting can be applied from above
On skis produced without a special order, the World Cup Cold (WCC) or World Cup Warm (WCW) structure is cut according to the structure - universal structures for cold or warm, respectively. The task of these structures is to prepare the skis for the universal snow conditions of the track.

Updated: 09/10/2018 23:50:55

Judge: Boris Mendel

*Overview of the best in the opinion of the editors of the site. About selection criteria. This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The onset of cold weather in no way means that you need to sit at home, because winter provides a lot of opportunities to actively relax. It is this pastime that allows you to keep the body in shape, strengthen the immune system, and get a good mood. Skiing is a favorite form of recreation for Russians, since winters in many cities are quite cold, with a lot of snow, especially in the countryside. You can go there on your own or with the whole family. In today's material, we will talk about cross-country skiing with skating, decide on the types of products and how to choose the right model. Skating is a step that is similar to speed skating. With it, during repulsion, the inside of the skis is used. It is important to know all the subtleties and nuances so as not to make a mistake when making a purchase.

Our experts have carefully analyzed the sports equipment market and prepared an up-to-date rating that includes the 5 best skate skis.

What to look for when choosing skate skis

1. Production material. There are two main types: wooden and plastic. The first option has only one advantage - low cost. That is why experts recommend such models to beginners so that they get comfortable before buying more professional models. The second option has a whole range of advantages: durability, strength, rapid development of high speed, no risk of delamination and changes in properties upon repeated contact with water. True, even simple models of plastic skating skis cost decently.
2. Rigidity. Unlike classic skis, skate skis are more rigid. There are two options for checking this parameter. If you are allowed in the store, then set the skis on a hard surface, then stand on them, evenly distributing your weight. After that, take a regular paper sheet, measuring the gap in front and behind between the floor and the ski. It should be up to 40 and 15 cm, respectively. Having transferred all the weight to one ski, the clearance should decrease in front and behind by 10 cm, while ending before the heel of the boot. There is an easier way, which does not require the permission of the seller. To do this, set the skis vertically, attaching one sliding surface to the other, then fix your hands on the blocks and squeeze them tightly. The clearance should be 4 mm. It is this rigidity that skate skis are needed for. If the clearance is 2 mm, then the model is too soft for you.
3. Length. It is shorter than the classic ones. In this case, the noses of the skis will not be bent, but even. When choosing a length for height, proceed from the rule that says that the product should be 10 cm higher than the skater. To determine, you should lean the skis against you directly in the store, asking the sales assistant to measure the difference.
4. Personal preferences. This is an important choice parameter, because it is the skier who should feel comfortable, since he will have to ski many kilometers of snowy slopes.
5. Place of purchase. Refuse to purchase skating skis sold in ordinary hypermarkets. Your best bet is to go to a professional sports shop where trained sales assistants will advise you on which model will be the most suitable. Also pay attention to the brand, because the large ones have already proven themselves, therefore, when buying such skis, you can not worry that the money will be wasted.

Rating of the best skate skis

In the first place in the ranking are skating skis with high performance and manufacturability. The model combines light weight and power. The carbon construction ensures optimal transmission of the forces of the legs in relation to the snow. Thanks to its low weight, maximum acceleration and easy glide are guaranteed. Torsional stiffness is increased by 20 percent with a 45-degree carbon braid. This affects the improvement of stability and glide.

Advantages

• Nomex core;
• high rigidity;
• plastic model;
• height - 192 cm;
• 5 colors to choose from.

Flaws

• suitable only for athletes with an "expert / professional" level of training;
• high cost - 20500 r.

The second line is given to skating cross-country skis, which have a high glide quality. They are stable during movement due to the responsive pad, which is low-lying. The model handles well, even if the rider makes mistakes in the course. The product will be an ideal option for improving the technique of skating. After the level of skill increases, you will not have to purchase new skis, since this model has significant potential.

Advantages

• Densolite 2000 core;
• reinforced block;
• reduced risk of incorrect installation of fasteners;
• do not require the use of conductors;
• height - 192 cm;
• suitable for beginners.

Flaws

• relatively expensive - 10 thousand rubles.

The third position goes to skating skis, which are distinguished by reliability and versatility. Model with sporty geometry provides lightness and elegance of riding. Improved glide allows you to quickly accelerate to high speeds. The product has an optimal ratio of weight and strength. The pronounced sidecut makes the ski stable and manageable on the piste, while the flat profile allows for dynamic and confident pushes for long and smooth skiing.

Advantages

• core - High Densolite;
• suitable for beginners;
• new sporty design;
• acceptable cost - 7700 r.

Flaws

• not found.

The fourth is amateur level skating. They are designed for skiing, not sporting events. They have high stability and excellent speed performance. The air channeled core reduces the weight of the skis and gives them extra strength. The model is distinguished by torsion rigidity and a long service life, as well as an optimal distribution of push forces, which affects the wear of the ointment - it becomes uniform.

Advantages

• wooden core - Air Channel;
• plastic model;
• excellent glide in various weather conditions;
• reinforced edges;
• height - 171 cm;
• budget cost - 5 thousand rubles.

Flaws

• wood model.

Fedor Tikhonov, journalist and master of sports in cross-country skiing, talks about all the subtleties and nuances that you should pay attention to when choosing the perfect pair of cross-country skis.

Cross-country skiing is not only the perfect way to spend the weekend, but also a powerful cardio workout that involves absolutely all muscle groups. In just one hour of skiing, you will burn entire 700 calories(for comparison, an hour of running will burn only 540 calories). And in order to make riding a pleasure, it is important to choose the right equipment - we will tell you about this now.

There are two types of skis: for skating and classic skiing. In sections, children are usually taught first the classic move - when moving, the skis are directed straight ahead, the main emphasis is on the hands, so the load on the legs is minimal. It is still easier for an amateur to start with skating, which requires the participation of not only hands, but also legs. With this course, the skier pushes off the track with his foot at an angle to the direction of movement, which from the side resembles skating.

Skis also differ from each other depending on their quality and purpose - there are top models, there are a little easier, and there are samples that, in principle, are intended exclusively for tourism. The difference is primarily in materials, weight, performance and external characteristics. Meanwhile, the quality of sliding and the number of calories burned largely depend on these indicators. But here, of course, it is important to be aware - if the last time you skied was at school, then choosing a top model, you are unlikely to go faster than if you preferred a simpler option.

Ski Rostovka

So, you came to the store, and the first thing you need to pay attention to when choosing cross-country skis is the size. The correct length of skating skis is calculated according to the principle: your height plus 10-15 centimeters, classic skis - your height plus 20-30 centimeters. At the same time, keep in mind that the longer the skis (even within the specified ranges), the more technical skills you will need when skiing. People with a height of 190 centimeters and above can safely take the maximum sizes: for skating skis this is about 190 centimeters, and for classic skis - 207-210 centimeters.

Ski stiffness

The second most important indicator is hardness. To determine it, there is special equipment - a flextester. But since it is not available in all stores, you can get by with these two ways:

1. Gently place the skis with the sliding surface against each other and squeeze them with one hand in the center (under the block). If you have enough strength in your hand to squeeze them almost to the contact of the sliding surfaces (almost - this is with a gap of 1.5 millimeters for classic skis and 2 millimeters for skating), then these skis are perfect for you (it is believed that the strength of the brush is proportional to kick force). In this case, the skis should be compressed smoothly throughout the compression stroke and until it stops at the end. It is worth noting that this method is only suitable for classic skis, and in order to determine the stiffness of a pair of skates, you need to squeeze them with both hands so that the gap between the skis does not exceed 2-4 millimeters. Happened? So they fit.
2. Put the skis symmetrically on the floor (for example, on a thin hard carpet so as not to damage their surface) and stand on them (you can wear ordinary shoes), evenly distributing body weight on both legs. In this position, the block should not come into contact with the floor from three centimeters below the heel of the boot and up to 20 centimeters above the toe of the boot. If you hold a sheet of paper under the block, then it is within these limits that the sheet will move freely under you, and above and below the indicated borders, on the contrary, it will get stuck. If you transfer your body weight to one foot (this is called “crushing the ski”), then the block should almost completely touch the floor (there will be a gap of about 0.5 millimeters).

ski poles

With how to choose ski poles, everything is much simpler - they are also divided into top, medium and low models and have different quality gradations. The more expensive and professional the stick, the lighter and stronger it is. But despite the strength and lack of vibration when repelled, it is easy to break it with a blow from a sharp object. This often happens in racing, when a side and often accidental ski strike actually cuts off a piece of the stick. However, cheap amateur sticks can be broken by any professional, just by pushing hard at the start. The size of skating poles is selected as follows: your height is minus 20 centimeters for skating skis and your height is minus 30 centimeters for classic skis. At the same time, the size of the sticks may vary slightly depending on your readiness - for example, professionals such as Petter Northug often choose the highest images possible (naturally, within reasonable limits).

People who start skiing are faced with the problem of choosing a pair of skis. When buying skating skis, you need to consider: the method of use, the experience of the athlete. And also, you should not forget about what surfaces you are going to ride on: prepared tracks or undeveloped virgin lands. When choosing a ski pair, you need to pay attention to the rigidity and length of the product.

Skis

Such skis are designated by the letters SK or the word Skate. They are shorter than running models. In addition, there are no notches on them. When skating, notches only slow down the skier's movements. Products must be selected depending on the athlete.

Boots

To ride safely, you need to choose the right shoes. Ordinary boots are not suitable for skiing. For reliability, comfort and better control, you need to buy special ski shoes.

ski poles

When buying skis for skating, you need to pick up. Their height should be 15 cm less than the skier. For a beginner, there is no need to buy expensive pure carbon fiber products. models made from an alloy of carbon fiber and fiberglass are suitable.

In order for the skis to last as long as possible, they need to be properly looked after: treated with various impregnations and lubricants. When the skiing season is over, they need to be properly prepared for storage. Before putting the equipment in the case, the remaining grease is removed from the products and covered with a new layer of paraffin.

High-quality equipment will serve the skier for several seasons, retaining its characteristics in its original condition. When choosing ski equipment, take into account the way the product is used and the experience of the athlete. Skating skis are not suitable for performing tricks and jumps.

An athlete's height is one of the main factors to consider when choosing skis. The ideal length of this sports equipment, as well as ski poles, depends on this parameter.

At the same time, it is important to take into account that modern models, which are made from new materials, are shorter than those used in previous decades.

Therefore, in that case if you want to buy skis for yourself or your child, you should not focus on numbers that were previously considered generally accepted.

How to choose the right skis and poles for height?

Usually, classic skis must exceed the height of the athlete by 20-30 cm. Skate models much shorter, here the excess is no more than 15 cm.

The ideal ski length for two different skiers of the same height can vary considerably- it depends on the weight, stiffness of the material and riding style.

The higher the weight, the longer and stiffer the skis should be.

Ski types

In order for skiing to be successful, it is important not only to choose the right size skis and poles.

The first step is to decide which skis to choose, what type of this sports equipment you need, and for this you need to know where and how are you going to ride.

For the classic move

Skis for classic skiing- the best choice for those who often go skiing. In the middle part of such models, special notches are made that provide excellent grip on snow.

For skating

These skis are designed to move in skating style. when an athlete walks along a wide snowy road, and the technique of his movement is similar to the movements of a skater.

Skating this way is somewhat more difficult than the classic style.

Mountain

Alpine skis are designed for downhill skiing from the slopes and for skiing. They come in several types, each of which is designed for a specific style of riding:

• skis for carving;
• for freeride;
• freestyle;
• ski touring and ski mountaineering.

Cross-country

Cross-country skis are perfect for country walks and easy hikes over short distances.

At the same time, it must be borne in mind that they are intended primarily for moving on already trampled snow, while tourist models are better suited for virgin lands.

For a child

If you want to involve children in skiing, the choice of children's skis and sticks needs to be approached even more carefully.

After all, the child does not have so much strength, and if the model is chosen incorrectly, he will probably not like skating.

Choosing ski boots and bindings

For newbies systems with automatic fastening of boots are well suited. Advanced skiers Prefer to use manual fixing.

First you need to find comfortable shoes, and then choose bindings that fit them. In order not to be mistaken with the size, you need to purchase thermal socks for skiing in advance and measure the shoes already in them.

At the same time, it must be borne in mind that there are boots for classics, boots for skating and combined shoes that will suit both styles of skating.

Choosing skis is not such an easy task at all as it might seem at first glance.

However, if you arm yourself with knowledge in advance and approach the matter with all seriousness, making the right decision will not be difficult.

Zermatt, St. Moritz and others: for everyone!

With well-chosen skis by type and length your skiing or your children's skiing will be held with maximum comfort and safety and will definitely bring a lot of positive emotions.

How to choose the right skis, boots and bindings is described in the video: