Selection of ski poles for the classics. What types of cross-country skis exist and how to choose the right ones for you

To understand which skis to choose for a beginner skier, you must first decide what style of skiing you prefer. For the skating style, when, like a skater, they move along a wide prepared track, or the classic style, when the movement is made on a ski track, different skis are made. It is not recommended to buy skating skis, implying the possibility of skating also on the track or vice versa. It will be hard and it is unlikely that such a ride can be enjoyed.

What are notches for?

Having set out to figure out how to choose skis for a classic move, remember that there are models with and without notches. If you are a beginner and have no desire to figure out how to properly apply ski wax depending on the temperature of the snow, then choose classic notched skis for skiing. If you bought smooth skis without a notch, then be aware that they are used only in conjunction with holding ointment, otherwise they will slip.

While skiing middle part skis bend when repulsed and come into contact with the surface of the track. Notches are made in such a way that they do not allow the ski to slip back, holding it, but allow it to slide forward almost unhindered. It should be noted that the speed of riding will always be slightly lower than on smooth skis. AT difficult conditions, such as above zero temperatures or icy snow, the notches cannot cope with the kickback and the skis begin to slip backwards. For these reasons, notched models are not used in skiing, but are very convenient for beginners and inexperienced skiers, as well as for children.

Lubricants for holding and sliding

Ski wax for plastic skis comes in two varieties: gliding and holding.

Ski lubricants are designed to improve gliding properties. They are applied only to the front and back of classic skis, whether they are notched or not. And for ridge skates, the entire sliding surface is lubricated.

The holding ointment is applied only to smooth skis intended for the classic move, and only to their central part (block). Such ski lubricant comes in solid or liquid form and is selected according to the temperature of the snow. Serves the same purpose as the notches - it does not allow you to slip back when pushing off.

It is not necessary to apply grip lubricant to notched skis, but glide lubricant is applied to any ski.

Selection of skis by stiffness

If you want to know how to choose the right skis, remember that the most important thing is to choose the right stiffness. Each ski has a deflection that determines driving performance by more than half. The stiffness of a ski is determined by how much force must be applied from above in order to push it through.

One of simple ways the definition of stiffness for the classics is to push the ski with both hands until the sliding surface under the block completely touches the floor. If you can’t push through, then choose with less rigidity. As for skis for skating, when compressed with one hand, the gap should be 1-2 mm. By the way, some models indicate the weight range of the skier for which they are designed.

Beginners and non-professionals are best suited for low and medium hard skis. If classic skis do not push through completely during repulsion, then the stiffness is not chosen correctly.

As for how to choose skis for skating, then they are almost twice as stiff as the classic ones, and should not be completely pressed through during repulsion. Moreover, they are usually shorter than the classic ones by 15-20 cm.

If you are planning walks on virgin lands, without skiing, then choose special walking or tourist (touring) skis. They are wider than the usual classic ones and on them you will lay your own track anywhere.

Ski length selection

The length of the skis are selected as follows:

• for a classic style, add 25-30 cm to your height;
• for ridge - add 10-15 cm to the height.

The question of how to choose the right skis for height is less important than choosing the stiffness. Generally, the longer the ski, the stiffer it is. Therefore, if the skis chosen for the length are soft, take longer ones.

Choice of ski boots

Before choosing ski boots, the right decision is to buy thermal socks for cross-country skiing and wear them to try on boots.

Skating boots have a rigid cuff to support the ankle and a rigid sole. For classics, they should not be used, as the sole will not bend enough when pushing off. For a classic style, lower boots with soft soles are designed. In turn, it is not recommended to use them for skating style, because they will not provide the necessary support for the ankle.

Combination boots can be a good choice for amateurs, allowing you to ride both classic style, and skating. They feature a mid-soled sole and, on select models, a removable cuff.

When choosing, be sure to consider the comfort of the boot. If possible, choose boots that have a zipper in addition to lacing to keep snow out.

Choosing fasteners

To date, three main types of mounts are produced:

• NNN (and her a new version NIS),
• Nordic 75 (the so-called "75 mm", the old standard from the times of the USSR).

The first two are practically the same, and the last one can be ignored at all. The main thing is to choose comfortable boots, and then choose the appropriate bindings and install them on your skis.

Choosing sticks

Now let's figure out how to choose ski poles. They are made in the following types:

• Carbon fiber. The most expensive. Lightweight and very tough.
• Fiberglass. The cheapest. Less rigid and less durable. Heavier and easier to bend. Suitable option for kids and beginners.
• Aluminum. Affordable. A good choice for beginners, amateurs, as well as for those who have a lot of weight.
• Composite fiberglass and carbon fiber. The price and strength will greatly depend on the carbon content.

It is recommended to choose sticks whose hand loops are securely fastened with Velcro. It is not recommended to buy sticks with small support rings (paws). They will fall into the snow, because they are designed for specially prepared tracks.

Thanks to the popularity winter views sports and the development of modern technological processes, skis have ceased to be ordinary wooden equipment. Today it is a product of high technologies.

There are no universal skis, choosing them, you need to decide on your goal: leisure or competitions, mountain slopes or virgin lands.

When choosing a ski model, it is necessary to take into account not only the nature of the surface on which they will be used, but also the weather conditions, skiing styles and techniques, as well as the height, weight and skill level of the skier. By the way, for children, you can safely take skis with a margin, 3 cm longer, because during the season the child will definitely grow up.

Below are the descriptions well-known manufacturers, whose products are in demand both among ordinary fans of this winter sport, and among the winners of the Winter Olympics and world championships.

Best Alpine Skiing

ELAN - the best alpine skiing for experienced

To make skiing dynamic, yet comfortable and easy, ELAN from Slovenia uses latest developments in the ski industry:

RST Sidewalls - a special design of the side walls that allows you to transfer the energy of movement to the edges;

Power Woodcore - a core that provides greater torsional rigidity, combined with increased product flexibility;

Lightweight and strong Carbon fiber gives the structure strength in the right places.

The developers do not forget about the aesthetic side, the manufacturability of their products is combined with a great design. Each model is designed for a skier with a particular level of training.

A distinctive feature of the best ELAN skis is the use of the revolutionary Amphibio technology in some models - the use of two types of Rocker and Camber profiles simultaneously, when the skis are made separately for the left and right legs.

Popular model: Elan Amphibio 78 Ti + ELX 11.0 13/14.

Estimated cost: 28000 rubles.

These skis are for advanced skiers. Thanks to the calculated geometry of the product, athletes can easily conquer any slopes, prepared slopes and virgin lands. The production uses the latest integrated Fusion ski binding system, which makes turns easier and the ski deflections along the length even.

Flaws: most models require good track preparation.

Reviews:“Elan are my favorite skis, I like them very much. I often go to the mountains, I ride on very difficult tracks, my skis have never let me down.

Head - the best technological skis

Photo: www.kant.ru

The Head brand from Austria uses fiberglass in the design of its models, the task of which is to take on the main loads while riding. But since this is a rather heavy material, the manufacturer's products were also weighted at first. So Head started using fiberglass filaments that are hollow on the inside and therefore lighter but still strong.

For the first time in the world, the company has introduced an "electronic control" system into the product - intellifibers fibers that allow skis to instantly adapt to changes in snow speed or consistency. These piezo fibers transform mechanical energy slip into electricity, which is captured by a closed circuit, is conducted through a resistor and a filter. The processed energy is returned to the fibers in 5 milliseconds and ensures the torsion stability of the ski.

The second technology implemented in Head skis is the Intelligence Chip system. The chip condenses the electricity generated by smart fibers. At the right moment (for example, when contact with the snow is lost), the microchip sends it back to the fibers, they press the edges into the snow, preventing loss of control.

Popular model: Head Chip 66 SW PR Pro.

Estimated cost: 28000 rubles.

Skis are well suited for both professionals and beginners, they are easy to learn to ride. Equipped with Intelligence Chip stabilization system. A metal TTT torsion fork has been added for added strength. The design was made by specialists of the BMW-studio.

Flaws: many, especially women, complain about the significant weight of the skis, they are not so easy to transport.

Reviews: “At first there was an unusual feeling: the skis were heavy, seemed somehow sluggish, but eerily stable. Porridge, raskolbas, a change in the state of snow is on their drum, a rod like tanks, you don’t feel anything at all. In general, I like skis, I recommend them to healthy men, you can beginners due to their softness at low speeds.

“Absolutely liked it - both in short and long turns. Heads have some kind of electronic filling - something there electrically changes the stiffness on the go (due to the complexity of the process, sellers can’t really explain exactly how everything works, so everyone just rides).”

“My first skis were Heads. Well, what can I say - the best skis for a beginner!”

K2 - the most reliable mountain skis

Photo: forum.ski.ru

Alpine skis from the American manufacturer K2 have been present on the Russian market for a long time and have been leaders in sales for a long time. In a tough competition The brand is constantly improving its production technologies. The latest K 2 collection to date uses the MOD-monic vibration dampening system and the new “ski-binding” system, when the latter are installed without drilling holes: a couple of clicks, fixation - and the binding holds itself and holds the boot perfectly.

The K 2 skis are distinguished by their tolerance to the conditions of the slope: they ride equally reliably on hard or soft snow, on the track with bumps or completely off the slope.

Popular model: K2 AMP Bolt.

Estimated price: 48000 rubles.

These are the best men's skis for fast trails. Fir core, 74mm waist. Applied technology Speed ​​Rocker (allows you to perform turns at the highest speed with maximum control). Metal Laminate construction with Hybritech sidewalls provides the necessary rigidity.

Flaws: overpriced in the Russian market.

Reviews: “Good light skis, short turns are just a pleasure to do on them. This model is just right for the Moscow region, the skis begin to “work” even at low speeds.

" Just wonderful! These are the best skis I have ever tried. last years. The funniest, most versatile. You can eat as you wish."

The best cross-country skiing

Salomon - the best women's cross-country skis

Photo: img.skimaster.ru

The French company Salomon produces skis that successfully combine classic traditions and the most modern technologies:

Monocoque technology allows you to make skis light, but quite rigid, thanks to a closed system consisting of a wooden or composite core and a body made of composite material;

V-shape technology gives the products an original geometry - a narrowed heel and a wide nose, which provides excellent maneuverability both on virgin soil and on hard prepared tracks;

the Powerline system is used to dampen vibrations and improve ski control;

Specially designed 3D Race Carbon (sandwich) and Rocker (reverse camber) provide good edging and proper power transfer to the edge.

Basically, Salomon skis are unisex. But the company has also developed special product lines for women and children. Lightweight models are different interesting design and bright colors.

Popular model: Salomon SNOWSCAPE 7 SIAM.

Estimated cost: 6600 rubles.

Skis are light, soft, taking into account the anatomy of the female body, have a displaced center of gravity and provide good grip on the track. The owners note the excellent performance of the rental, as well as the good value for money of these skis.

From Salomon ski reviews: “Strong glide (especially at temperatures from -2 to -8 degrees), sharp edges, good geometry. The sliding surface plastic is suitable for middle lane Russia".

Fischer - the best men's cross-country skis

Photo: www.sport-ekipirovka.ru

German Fischer skis, like products from other brands, are made for different categories of amateurs and professionals. Models are divided into lines and differ in the technologies used in production.

For the manufacture of cross-country skis, technologies are used to reduce the weight of products and reduce energy losses, improve glide. The design of the skis is quite complicated. Outside, the product is covered with plastic, and inside, honeycomb technology is used, which is also common in the aircraft industry. In the manufacture of the sliding side of the ski, diamond grinding and carbon are used.

In the line of cross-country skis, Fischer can choose a pair for himself as a novice skier (universal pair for any type of skiing) and a professional athlete (for skating or classic skiing).

In addition, when choosing the best skis, you need to know about the climate of the area where you intend to ski. For different snow issued different models Fischer skis:

"warm" - with a high content of graphite, soft heel and toe, they are ideal for warm winter the middle zone of the Russian Federation and Western Siberia;

"cold" with a lower content of graphite in plastic. They are used for hard snow and frosty weather.

Popular model: Fischer LS Combi.

Estimated price: 5000 rubles.

These skis use ROCKER CAMBER technology: at the moment of crushing the block, the toe is unloaded, and the ski does not burrow into the snow. As a result, ski control becomes more comfortable. An improved system of air channels in the structure of the wooden core allows you to optimally distribute the weight along the entire length of the ski. Great for beginners who want to learn how to ride really fast.

Flaws: skis of this quality require careful care and preparation.

Reviews: “I would like to say about the feeling of Fischer skis: when I first got on them, then, without even pushing off, I immediately went. They glide just fine!

Rossignol - the best skis for professionals

Photo: www.uventasport.ru

The Rossignol group of companies, which has production facilities throughout Europe, was one of the first to master the production of plastic skis. Lightweight laminate The aramid used in their construction provides good stability and secure edging. The wooden core is reinforced with carbon, which makes the skis docile and light.

The design of the side walls has two layers. The upper, made of elastic material, is designed to absorb shock loads under the bindings. It protects the skier's legs and the skis themselves. The bottom layer is made of hard plastic, which provides strength characteristics.

The company is better known as a manufacturer of alpine skis, one of the cross-country skis it produces are real pearls.

Popular model: Rossignol X-ium Skating WC3 White Base NIS.

Estimated cost: 20500 rubles

Experts find many advantages in the geometry of these skis due to the competent distribution of loads between the toe and heel, thanks to which the skis confidently enter the turn, move through snow of various densities.

Flaws: rather, you can call it a feature: these skis are not for a beginner, they require a certain gliding technique from the skier.

The opinion of a member of the Italian national team in Nordic combined Michele Giuliane: “These skis are stable, you feel free on them. Excellent skis, comparable to top-level racing models.

Atomic - the best skis for kids

Photo: www.atlant-sport.ru

The Austrian company Atomic produces narrow and durable cross-country skiing for users of any skill level and any age. The skis of this company, designed for children and teenagers, are in great demand. Lightweight Ultra High Densolite synthetic cores and 3D Touring profiles give the skis a light heel and toe and excellent energy distribution.

Popular model: Atomic Ski Tiger Junior

Estimated price: 3000 rubles.

This is a children's (junior) model for the classic move. It is equally convenient both to learn the correct “classics” and to demonstrate the acquired skills at the most serious competitions. The Nordicap technology ensures uniform pressure distribution as well as sufficient torsional rigidity. The skis are easy to use and slip resistant. They do not require lubrication and special preparation. In addition, at such a price, it’s not a pity to break them in the learning process.

Flaws: due to the popularity of the brand, skis are quickly dismantled in stores, so it is not always possible to find a suitable pair for sale on sale.

Reviews: “Bought for my daughter. Long chose, stopped at Atomic Ski Tiger with G2 Auto bindings. They did not even have to be lubricated with paraffin. Immediately from the store - to the snow, and the girl went. There is almost no recoil uphill, the daughter says that her legs get tired much less than on old skis».

Rating of the best alpine and cross-country skiing according to "Price Expert"

To choose the right classic skis and sticks for them, you must build on your height.

To do this, you must add from 10 to 20 cm to your height. For example, my height is 170 cm, which means I choose skis somewhere around 190-195 cm. As for ski poles, then on the contrary, choose 15- 20cm shorter than height. With my height, I need sticks of about 150 cm.

We chose skis for our daughter, came to the store and the consultant suggested that the skis should be as tall as a child, plus 10-20 cm, but the poles should be about armpit-high, arms outstretched, fingers should hold the stick in grip.

Selection of skis and ski poles depends on the style of skiing. For skating, you need to put your skis next to you in front of you, their length should be 15 cm higher than your height, and ski poles should be 15-20 cm lower than your height. For classic skiing, add 25-30 cm to your height, the height of the poles should be 15-20 cm below your height. For walks, the length of the skis should not exceed more than 15-25 cm above your height. When choosing equipment, pay attention to its weight and rigidity - it should be stiff and light.

• Skis and sticks.

  Skis and poles are available for classic and skating.

  for classic running, the length of the skis should be 10-25 centimeters more growth a person, and the length of the sticks, on the contrary, should be 20-30 centimeters lower than a person’s height

  for horse racing, the length of skis and poles should almost coincide with the height of a person.

There is an easy way to choose the length of the skis. You need to take the skis and put them vertically next to you. And raise your hand up. Comfortable skis should be from the floor to the base of the fingers. And ski poles should be floor to shoulder length. But this is, so to speak, advice for amateurs. And for professionals, there are tables for the length of skis and poles, depending on the height and type of skiing.



When I was at school, they picked up sticks and skis for us in this way. The sticks were selected in such a way that when they reached the armpits (no more, no less), and the length of the skis should be such that if you put them vertically in front of you, then their height should be equal to the height of your outstretched arm. Sun is simple.

To choose skis and poles for height, you must first determine which skis You need. As a rule, skis are bought for ski trips. Walking skis you need to buy a length of 15-25 cm more than your height. But you still need to take into account the weight. The fuller the person, the longer the skis he needs in order not to fall into the snow.

Skating skis should be shorter - only 10-15 cm longer than the body. But the sticks for skating, on the contrary, should be 10 centimeters longer than the classic ones.

Classic ski poles should be 25-30 cm below your height.



Skis should be taller than a person, but at the same time, he should be able to easily reach with his fingertips the top of the ski, standing vertically next to him, like this:



As for the sticks, they should reach the armpits and even be a little higher.

At the same time, there are some differences between classic and skating skis, the difference is clearly visible in the following table:



Skate skis are more flexible and elastic, due to them you can gain more speed. The classic inventory is softer, the dimensions are larger.

There are also skis with and without notches. I would recommend buying skis without notches, they glide better. Although if you just want to walk - buy with notches, they slow down the progress.

And yes, do not forget to lubricate the skis with a special ointment.

If you mean the selection of skis for classic running, then they are selected according to the height of a person along an outstretched hand, and ski poles are selected according to a person’s shoulder. If the height is 155 cm, the poles should be 130 cm and the skis 170 cm, for a skate run, the skis and poles should be 10-15 cm higher, that is, poles 140 cm, skis 185 cm.



And alpine skiing is selected according to a person’s weight and height, and it depends who came to buy beginner skiing or a professional person.



The width of the ski should be 1/2 the size of the shoe, the length of the ski should be 1.5 of the height of a person, ski poles must be selected from the calculation of 2 pieces and their length should be equal to the width of the arms spread out at the sides, the person picking up the poles.

Every novice skier faces the difficulties of choosing cross-country skis. How to choose cross-country skis? Skate or classic? Or maybe universal? More expensive or cheaper? The correct answer to these questions will determine whether you love this sport or hate it.

In this article, we will tell you how to choose cross-country skis and not turn the buying process into headache. How to choose skating and classic skis, how they differ and what to look for.

First you need to understand a few important points. Buy sports equipment maximum quality which may allow your family budget. Even for rare walks with my family do not choose the cheapest skis. This principle is similar to or other sports equipment. The miser pays twice - this has long been known to everyone.

You can often hear from beginners: "I ride 5 times a year, I need the cheapest." Such an installation will spoil the impression of skiing for you and your loved ones. Moreover, if you ride 5 times a year, then it is better to spend this time with pleasure, and not in torment. Of course, the principle imposes a framework on this financial condition but this is a personal matter.

One thing is for sure, it's better to buy inventory, proven brands. They have appropriate quality control and reputation care. Here are the brands we trust and recommend for purchase:

• Salomon
• Fischer
• Atomic
• Rossignol
• Tisa (owned by Fischer)
• Peltonen

What is the difference between classic skis and skate skis?

First of all, they differ construction or, as skiers say, diagram. The work of skis depends on this, but for a skate and a classic it is completely different. Also, for the classics, the skis are selected longer, and for the skate, shorter. This is explained by the fact that in the skate you need to swing the skis to the sides and do it more conveniently short. In the classics, it is better to take longer skis. According to the laws of physics, the longer the ski, the less pressure it creates on the snow, the less friction and the better the glide.

How skate skiing should work

As can be seen from the figure, skating never completely crushed. It works like a spring and has maximum pressure points in the toe and heel. In the foreground, the diagram reflects the pressure when the athlete is positioned on 2 legs. In the background - the transfer of weight to 1 leg during the rental. The pressure increases significantly on the toe and heel, and almost does not change under the last.

How a classic ski (classic) should work

image from the magazine "Skiing"

Classic, on the other hand, completely crushed under the block. It is understandable - under the block there is a holding ointment that does not allow the ski to slide back when repulsed. In the foreground of the scheme, the skier stands on 2 legs, in the background, the weight is transferred to 1 leg and repulsion occurs.

The diagrams clearly show why it is almost impossible to skate on classic skis and vice versa.

What is combined skiing (combi)?

Combined skis or just combi are classic with increased rigidity. Roughly speaking, these are skis for the classics, with the opportunity to skate sometimes. True, there is one minus - for a classic move under the block, it is necessary to apply holding ointments, and this ointment will only interfere with skating. That is, the combi needs to be constantly re-greased, which causes inconvenience and takes time.

Advantages of combination skis:

• savings (no need to spend money on 2 sets)
• a good option for the first skis (in the future you can decide which move you like more)

Cons of combined skis:

• you need to constantly apply and wash off the holding ointment
• do not fully reveal the features of riding styles

How to choose cross-country skiing for a beginner?

First you need to decide what move you want to ride, where you will ride and what goals you set. There is not always a prepared wide track for skating, but the ski track can be trampled in every park, even in the center big city. If there is no good track nearby, which is looked after, then definitely take classic skis. If the track is nearby or there is an opportunity to drive to it, then the choice is more difficult. To simplify, we conditionally divide skating into several categories:

• walks with family and friends

On walks, the main thing is to have fun, fresh air, communication, hot tea from a thermos. For such riding it is better to choose classical. We advise you to pay attention to oil-free skis- with notches or mohair modules (Skintech, Twinskin and the like). They do not need to be smeared so that they do not roll back, you can comfortably stand on them and drink tea, and it is much easier to climb a mountain without serious physical training.

Skating is not suitable for these purposes. Skating is an energy-intensive type of skating; walking with a skate will not work. Without proper preparation, it will not be possible to communicate during skating, someone from the company will definitely fall behind, and skating will not last long.

• regular exercise to keep fit and healthy

Simply put, exercise for health 2-3 times a week. Here you can already connect the skating and alternate it with the classic - combined skis are suitable for these purposes. If you are not afraid of the disadvantages of this type of ski, which we have listed above. Or buy skis for every move from the middle price segment.

• improvement of technology ski runs, the desire to improve in skiing

If you want to learn how to ski technically, then you need to think about buying 2 pairs - one for each style of skiing. Combined will not allow you to put equipment

• participation in competitions, the desire to improve the sports category

To fight for the result in competitions, of course, you need several pairs. At least 1 for each style, ideally 2-3 for each style. Moreover, the skis must be of the highest level. Here it is already worth starting from how much you are willing to invest in your hobby. It is always better to take 2 good pairs than 4 mediocre ones. The selection of professional skis requires a special approach. About, how to choose professional skis, read in our separate article.

• Geometry. Skis must not be curved in longitudinal direction(it is convenient to look at the groove), there should be no helical bend

image from the magazine "Skiing"

• sliding surface should be flat, plastic without waves, bumps and pits
• The laminate should not be damage. Moisture can get inside through them, then the core will swell and become unusable.
• Must shrink the same and evenly. It should not be that one ski compresses lighter than the other harder

How to choose skis for classic skiing?

By height

Classics are selected based on the formula: skier height + 20-30 cm. If your height is 180 cm, choose skis 200 - 210 cm long.

By weight

Skis for the classic course are selected based on surface weight markings. Such designations are even on some inexpensive skis from well-known manufacturers, such as Salomon. In the photo, the skis are designed for a weight of 65-78 kg.

If there are no markings, then you can pick them up by weight popular among skiers paper dough:

1. Find a balance point. This can be done by placing the ski on a thin ruler or a knife. If there is nothing at hand, then you can take the ski with 2 fingers by the sidewalls and find the balance point.
2. Put your skis on a flat floor and stand on them so that the toes of your boots are on the line of balance
3. Have someone run a piece of paper under the skis. You need to stand straight, distributing the weight on 2 legs. A sheet of A4 paper should come out about 20-25 cm ahead of the boot and reach the heel. When transferring weight to one foot, the ski should almost press down on the sheet. If you take a narrower sheet of paper, then it should walk a little under the ski.

There are rougher ways to select skis by weight if the store does not allow a paper test. Such methods are only suitable for the cheapest ones, which do not have weight markings.

Please note that the strength of the brush is different for each person and this selection method cannot be used as the main one.

The first way - squeezing with one hand:

1. Find a point of balance
2. 5 cm below the balance point, squeeze a pair of skis with one hand. There should be a gap of about 1 mm

Another way our fathers and grandfathers checked the stiffness of skis:

1. Find a point of balance
2. Squeeze a pair of skis with 2 hands below the balance point. Thus, you need to find a pair that you barely squeeze, if squeezed too lightly, then they are soft. If you can't squeeze it, then it's hard.

Last and the easiest selection method if you don't want to bother at all. When the skier's weight is above the norm, it is better to take upper limit length, that is, the height of the skier is + 25-30 cm. When the weight is normal, the average value is selected (height + 20-25 cm), the weight is below the norm - height + 20 cm). Also, for overweight people, we recommend paying attention to the combined ones and picking them up according to the height according to the classic scheme. They differ from the classic ones only in increased rigidity.

How to choose skis for skating?

By height

For skating, they are selected according to their height as follows: skier height + 10-15 cm. Short skis are more maneuverable and easier to manage. Therefore, it is better for beginners to take shorter lengths, if body weight allows. For experienced skiers, we recommend longer skis (closer to +15 cm).

By weight

On some models, as in the case of classic ones, it is indicated skier weight range for a specific couple. If there are no such markings, then you can use the same methods as in the selection of classic ones, except for squeezing with 1 hand. But there are a few features:

1. On a paper test, when transferring the mass of the skier to one leg, the paper should move freely under the ski in the binding area
2. When squeezing with 2 hands, there should be a gap of about 2mm

Many specialized stores have special devices for measuring the stiffness of cross-country skis.

How to choose combination skis?

Combi are selected as a cross between a skate and a classic: skier height + 15-20 cm. As we wrote above, combi skis are classic skis with increased rigidity. Therefore, the selection of combined skis is identical to the selection of classic ones with a slight bias in skating. The selection methods have been described in detail above.

How to choose skis by stiffness: video instruction from Fischer

Many specialized shops have devices for measuring the stiffness of cross-country skis. In the video, the selection of skis is made on a special stand, but on a flat floor with a piece of paper, you can conduct a similar test.

Skiing is the most common winter sport in our country. But good skiing depends not only on the physical fitness of the skier, but also on well-chosen equipment. Today we will talk about how the physical parameters of an athlete - height and weight - affect the nuances of choosing skis.

How to choose skis for height?

There are certain aspects to choosing skis by length. They differ depending on the type of products, which can be classic, skating or walking.

• Skis of the first category, classical, in length should exceed the height of the skier by 20-30 cm.
• Skate models should be 10-15 cm larger than the athlete.
• Worthy of special attention pleasure(they are combined) skis, which are very popular among fans of this winter sport. They are selected 15-20 cm longer than the height of their owner.

Beginner skiers who do not know how to choose the size of skis should remember that short skis are much easier to manage. But people with extensive riding experience can afford to buy long models. Moreover, such skis provide maximum glide.

How to choose a ski size?

To understand how to choose the size of skis, you should pay attention to the special size table. Read it, or better yet, print it out and take it with you. sporting goods store. She will show you how to size for skis and buy equipment that will be comfortable to use. Only with this approach to the choice of purchased skis will give a lot positive emotions while skiing on winter snow-covered paths.

How to choose skis by weight?

There is nothing complicated here either. All that is required is to weigh yourself and compare the result with the ski size table:

! Please note that many manufacturers have their own ski size tables for height and / or weight, which differ from those given in this article.

It is also important to remember that the weight of the athlete has a direct impact on the level of rigidity of the products. The larger it is, the stiffer the skis should be. To select skis by weight, measure their stiffness level using flex tester. Skis are installed on a special board or on flat surface and with the help of the device the stiffness is measured. This indicator can also be determined by squeezing a pair of skis with your hands. For more information on how to conduct a "manual" test yourself, see our.

How to choose skis and poles for height?

The above describes in detail how to choose the right skis for height. But when choosing equipment, it is important to pay attention to sticks. Unlike skis, the length of the sticks should be 15-20 cm less than the height of the athlete. If the skier is in excellent physical shape, the length of the sticks can be slightly increased. But, in any case, the minimum length of the sticks should not be below the shoulders, and the maximum - below the ear. Besides:

• you can’t buy sticks “for growth” (especially if you are purchasing equipment for a child);
• you should not buy sticks with miniature supports - the so-called "paws".

Now you know how to choose skis for height and weight. Arm yourself with a size chart - and go to the sports store!

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