An eight-year-old boy who was cross country skiing with his father and failed to return home on schedule was quickly located last week thanks to a small GPS tracker he was wearing – and for once, it wasn't a Garmin InReach.

According to a report from Vermont's Stowe Mountain Rescue team, the pair had been out skiing in the Ranch Valley trail system all day on December 9. When they still hadn't returned home three hours after nightfall, the boy's mother contacted mountain rescue. Using her phone, she was able to show crews exactly where her son was thanks to the Jiobit device he was carrying.

"Although a 911 call from the field will give us coordinates, there was something reassuring about being able to see the kid’s live feed location on his mother’s phone," writes SMR.

Teams arranged two ATVs to ride in and pick the pair up in what they call a "straightforward" rescue. When they arrived, they discovered the pair in good health, albeit lacking in light sources.

"For fear of stating the obvious, if you’re skiing with your kid in the backcountry, pack a couple of headlamps," warns SMR.

Headlamps are a lightweight but essential piece of kit that should remain in your backpack (with extra batteries) for all outdoor adventures, just in case things don't go to plan.

"You should pack them anyway, but an unplanned sojourn in the dark would be especially challenging for most kids."

That said, the team made a point of noting that this particular child wasn't too fussed about the lack of light.

"Let it be known: he was totally resilient, cheerful and unphased – the adventurous spirit that runs in his family stood him in good stead.

What is a Jiobit?

Jiobit founder and CEO, John Renaldi, developed the device after he lost track of his 6-year-old son in a crowded Chicago park for over 30 minutes. This small, wearable device is made by California-based tech company Life360 and offers real-time tracking using GPS technology. According to the company's website, it's a popular choice for those who want to keep tabs on kids and pets, and that's exactly what this mother did.

For backcountry adventures, we always recommend carrying a satellite communicator such as a Garmin InReach, which lets you signal for help even when you're outside of cell service. However, we understand that this is a pricey piece of kit, and there are an increasing number of options that provide similar benefits.

Newer iPhones come equipped with the SOS function, which has saved several hikers' lives recently, though of course, you'll need to carry a portable charger if you intend to rely on your phone (the Garmin InReach holds its charge for a month).

The Jiobit isn't intended to be a substitute for a satellite communicator backcountry exploits of course, but it offers real-time tracking if you want to keep tabs on your dog or child in the forest, holds a charge for about a week, and even lets you call for help at the click of a button if you need it.

• Best cross country skis: tested by experts

A new 100k cross country ski race is coming to Northern Minnesota this March, and its founder says it's all about enjoying nature at its best.

The Ski North Ultra will take place on March 8, 2025 on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Participants can choose from a 100k, 46k or 22k distance. Each route links up the Norpine, Cascade River and Bally Creek ski trail systems and will feature a mix of skate skiing, classic and double track and single-track trails.

Race founder and endurance athlete Allie Rykken tells Advnture she came up with the idea for the event after skiing those trails herself and discovering their beauty.

"Participants can expect an intimate experience with nature with narrow trails and beautiful North Shore scenery."

According to Rykken, the 100k option is the longest Nordic ski event in the Midwest by quite a bit.

"If you’d enjoy a day winding through cedars, birches and spruces, come join us."

More than a dozen skiers have already signed up for the event, thought to be one of the longest in the region, in just a week. If you're interested in the Ski North Ultra registration starts at $40 for the shortest distance and is open at ww.runsignup.com

• The best cross country skis: classic, skate and Nordic skis for exploring the snowy backcountry
• The best ski socks: for warm, comfy feet throughout the ski season
• The best ski gloves: keep your hands comfortable and warm on the slopes

“The fact that our weather is often so bad, that’s actually what makes Scottish winter climbing so good,” says mountaineer Simon Richardson in Ephemeral, an excellent 2023 film that documents a single season in the Scottish Highlands (it’s on Amazon Prime's streaming service and well worth a watch). If something is ephemeral, it means that it only lasts for a very short amount of time. The word perfectly sums up the nature of snow and ice conditions found in many of the world’s mountain regions.

When a prolonged freeze brings a prized ice climbing route into being, climbers flock to the scene like moths to a flame. When half a season of freeze-thaw cycles bring about beautiful neve in the gullies, mountaineers are in heaven. Meanwhile, fresh powder might as well be white gold where skiers and snowboarders are concerned.

However, the ephemeral nature of snow and ice also brings danger, most violently exemplified by one of the most feared objective dangers the mountains have to offer: avalanches. When we set out to play in the big, snowy mountains, knowing how to read an avalanche forecast is essential to stay as safe as possible. The ebb and flow of weather conditions, combined with the more punctuated instances of human interaction with the mountains mean that avalanches are, unfortunately, inevitable.

To get you clued up on how to read and avalanche forecast, we asked one of our mountaineering experts to provide this guide, and to point you in the direction of the relevant forecast providers.

How to read an avalanche forecast

Here are 5 steps to take when using an avalanche forecast. For more detail on what each step entails, click the links or scroll down this guide.

1) Consider conditions leading up to the day: knowing how the current conditions have evolved leading up to your adventure is important when making judgements.

2) Read the hazard level: the forecast’s hazard level gives a snapshot of the risk in the mountains on any given day.

3) Read the details that inform the hazard level: the details that underpin the hazard level are crucial, such as guidance around expected avalanche problems, which slopes are most prone, wind speed, freezing level, snow forecast and snowpack conditions.

4) Decide on the best course of action: either choose not to venture into the mountains or pick your route based on available information.

5) Continue your evaluation while on the hill: constantly check that the forecast matches the reality and look for signs of avalanche prone terrain.

It’s worth stating that reading a single avalanche forecast is insufficient when it comes to assessing the complete avalanche hazard. For starters, forecasts are imperfect and should be used as a guide, rather than as gospel truth. Secondly, the forecast usually applies to a large area, giving a general picture of the risk in the region, rather than providing a specific, localized forecast for any given slope.

Then there’s the fact that the forecast is only as good as the person interpreting it. If you’re a seasoned winter mountaineer with experience of assessing avalanche risk while on the hill and you’ve been studying both the season’s snowpack evolution and the forecasts in the lead up to your day, you’ll probably interpret the forecast well. If you’re oblivious to the evolution of snow conditions during the season and you’re a beginner in winter terrain, you’ll not be able to interpret the forecast as effectively.

Safely gaining experience is crucial, which is why hiring a guide or booking a winter skills course is a great way to start your winter walking or mountaineering journey.

Meet the expert

What is an avalanche?

An avalanche is a mass of snow moving downhill, usually at high speed. They occur when the force of gravity acting on a snowpack exceeds the strength of the anchors holding it all together.

The classic image that the mind conjures up is of a roaring plume of ice and snow plummeting down a Himalayan mountain all the way to the valley below, However, avalanches can be much smaller and much more localized, travelling only a short distance. Even the smallest avalanche is dangerous and could be deadly if it knocks you over on rocky or exposed terrain.

Where do avalanches occur?

• Avalanches typically occur on slopes between 20 and 55 degrees
• Most occur in the range between 30 and 45 degrees

There’s a Goldilocks zone, where the gradients are just right for a potential avalanche. On steep ground, snow tends not to accumulate in great depth and will simply slough off before a potentially hazardous amount of the white stuff forms. On gentle slopes, the anchors that hold the snow in place have an easier time battling the forces of gravity. It’s on slopes between 20 and 55 degrees that avalanches generally occur, with between 30 and 45 degrees being the main danger zone.

How to read an avalanche forecast

Here are the main 5 steps to follow when reading an avalanche forecast:

Consider conditions leading up to the day

• The planning stage is the most important when it comes to avoiding avalanches
• Keeping an eye on conditions in the weeks and days leading up to the adventure is important

The planning stage is the most important when it comes to avoiding avalanches and it starts weeks or even months before your adventure. The Be Avalanche Aware initiative from the Scottish Avalanche Information Service states that 75-80% of your avalanche hazard evaluation should be in the planning stage. Neglect this part of the process and you could end up in serious trouble.

Keeping a tab on what’s been going on with the snowpack during the winter season can help to paint a picture of what you can expect when your time in the mountains comes around. Read the forecasts, see what others are saying on online forums and speak to any friends who’ve recently been to the region you’ll be exploring.

Read the hazard level

• Forecasters provide a hazard forecast level
• There are usually five levels, from Low to Extreme

Most avalanche forecasts contain a headline hazard level. There are usually around five levels, ranging from something along the lines of Low to Very High or even Extreme. 

As you’d expect, Low means that there’s little chance of an avalanche occurring and this is usually indicated by a friendly green icon. So, Go! But this doesn’t mean you should go out there blind to the risks. Low doesn't mean avalanches definitely won't occur. It’s always worth assessing the snowpack while you're out there (more on this in the Continue you evaluation while on the hill section).

The next level up is usually called something like Moderate and often has an eye-catching yellow icon. This means that considerable care should be taken when in avalanche prone terrain and you should constantly evaluate the snowpack when on the hill. While it’s only one level up from Low, avoiding Moderate terrain is the wisest course of action. As an instructor from a reputed national outdoor center once asked me: ‘If you were told that there was a moderate chance the plane you were about to get on would crash, you wouldn’t get on it, would you?”

Moving up, we’ve got the orange Considerable icon, which is usually accompanied by language like ‘dangerous’, ‘conservative design making’ and ‘very large sized natural avalanches possible’. High levels of experience are required in order to effectively evaluate the snowpack, while you should plan to avoid this kind of terrain.

The two highest warning levels are the red High and the black Very High (in Scotland) or Extreme (in the US). High means very dangerous conditions with a high likelihood of avalanches – avoid at all costs. If you see the Extreme warning, it’s probably a nice day for a bike ride or visit to the local spa.

This film from the American National Avalanche Center explains all of this in more detail:

Read the details that inform the hazard level

• There are many factors that can affect the likelihood of an avalanche
• Forecasters detail which of these are likely to be at play
• Reading the expert advice that has informed the hazard level is crucial

If you’re comfortable with the hazard level and you’re still planning on cracking on with your adventure, you need to gather as much information as you can to make informed decisions both to plan your route and while you're out in the backcountry.

There are loads of factors that can affect the likelihood of avalanches. The majority of avalanches occur during snow storms and in the two days that follow. Wind speeds above 15mph are liable to transport snow, depositing it elsewhere and creating a type of unstable snow called windslab, which is particularly prone to avalanche. The wind direction will tell you where windslab will likely accumulate.

If the weather swings from crisp and cold to warm and wet, it can negatively impact the stability of the snowpack. Read the descriptions and summaries from the experts and use them to inform your plan. 

Forecasters will often draw attention to avalanche problems, which are scenarios that could lead to potential avalanches. These are factors like new snow, accumulation of wind slab, wet snow, persistent weak layers, gliding snow and cornices. An assessment of potential avalanche problems helps forecasters arrive at the avalanche hazard level.

Many forecasters provide recent photos taken while compiling their reports, while some have strategically positioned webcams. These images can help in assessing what the snow conditions are like beyond the forecaster’s written descriptions.

Some avalanche forecasts display what’s called a hazard compass rose, used to indicate which slopes are likely to be the most hazardous. The rose is a circle with the cardinal points of the compass (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W and NW) around the outside. The circle is divided into 8 slides – a bit like a cake – with one for each direction a slope faces. Then, within the main circle is a smaller circle, which represents ground above a certain elevation. What you end up with is 16 segments, which are then colored based on the avalanche risk for different slope aspects and at different heights.

In the example above, the avalanche hazard is expected to be considerable above 850 meters on N, NE and E facing slopes. There's also moderate avalanche risk on NW and SE slopes above 850m. There's low risk of avalanches below 850m and on W, SW and S facing slopes above 850m too.

Decide on the best course of action

• Once you’ve gathered all the information, use it to plan your route
• Plan to avoid avalanche-prone ground, including when you plot escape routes

Now that you’ve got all the information, you can apply it to your route plan in order to navigate safely and avoid potential avalanche terrain. For example, if S, SW and W facing slopes are forecasted as Low risk, but others are Moderate or Considerable, it makes sense to ascend and descend via these slopes. If your planned adventure is long or remote, you can also use this kind of information to plan safe escape routes, should you need to bail for any reason.

Of course, if the threat is consistent across all aspects on higher ground, you may choose to alter your plans altogether and avoid the mountains.

Continue your evaluation while on the hill

• 20 to 25% of avalanche evaluation takes place while out in the backcountry
• Assess whether the conditions match what was predicted in the forecast
• Look out for signs of avalanche danger and be prepared to take plan B if necessary

As mentioned, 75 to 80% of your avalanche evaluation should take place in the planning stage, which leaves 20 to 25% for when you’re out there, assessing what you can see and the terrain beneath your feet, while considering how it compares to what was forecast. 

Warning signs to look out for are things like fresh avalanche debris, which indicates that slopes of a similar aspect may also be liable. Best to avoid. Or, slabs large of snow breaking away or cracking beneath your feet, indicating an unstable snowpack. Listen out for a distinctive whoomping sound, another indication of instability. If you encounter these, retreat.

If the windspeeds are more than what was forecasted, consider what this might mean in terms of freshly deposited windslab and where it’s likely to accumulate. Consider whether this should change your plan. While undoubtedly beautiful, snow being whipped around by the wind at your feet is a sure sign that unstable snow is accumulating. If visibility is poor and you’re unable to properly assess conditions, perhaps opt for a more conservative plan B.

All of these considerations and decisions require a certain level of experience, which is why it’s always great to head out with a guide or book a course if you're new to the winter environment.

Forecast providers in the US

America’s varied and spectacular mountain landscapes are arguably even more awe-inspiring in winter. Their siren song is irresistible to many, yet with its beauty comes its danger. Snow avalanches kill about 45 people in the American backcountry each year, so an understanding of the risks and knowing how to read an avalanche forecast are clearly important.

Avalanche.org is a great source of information. A partnership between the American Avalanche Association (A3) and the US Forest Service National Avalanche Center (NAC), it consolidates data from various professional forecast centers to provide real-time guidance for winter explorers. The National Danger Map provides a quick overview of the hazard level across many of Western States’ popular mountain regions.

From the map, you can click into and access regional forecasts, such as the Colorado Avalanche Information Center or the Northwest Avalanche Center for the likes of the Olympic, North Cascades and Mount Rainier National Parks.

Forecast providers in the Alps

Unsurprisingly given their popularity, the Alps are well served by a range of Avalanche forecasters. With summers getting hotter and the weather becoming more and more unpredictable, being avalanche aware while exploring Western Europe’s greatest mountains has never been so important.

A good place to start is the Avalanche.report website, which provides a handy map of the Alps on its homepage, with links to various services across the range. The site has detailed information for Austria’s Tyrol, as well as South Tyrol and Trentino in Italy – these were the regions directly involved in launching the site.

However, click on the relevant part of the map and you can find all the information you’d need, from the SLF in Swizerland and its White Risk portal, to Meteo Montagne for the French Alps.

Forecast providers in the UK

While avalanches can, and do, occur in parts of Wales, England and Northern Ireland, the vast majority of avalanche activity in the UK occurs in the Scottish Highlands.

Although diminutive compared to the giants of the Alps, Rockies, Andes and Himalayas, Scotland’s mountains are serious stuff in winter. From the vast, sub-Arctic Cairngorm plateau to the pointier peaks in the west, Scotland’s Bens, Sgúrrs and Stobs are just high enough that they often freeze in winter but not so high that it’s a permanent state of affairs. This leads to repeated freeze-thaw cycles, creating the kind of terrain that winter climbers love but also conditions that are ripe for avalanche.

This is where the Scottish Avalanche Information Service (SAIS) comes in, producing daily reports throughout the winter season for the country’s most popular regions. They arrive at their forecasts through a blend of expert experience, in-the-field analysis and comparison with the Met Office weather forecast.

The bodies of five cross country skiers who went missing in the Alps over the weekend have been found, while officials say one party remains missing.

The group of six, which reportedly contained five members of one family, set off on Saturday from the Swiss ski resort Zermatt, which sits at the foot of the Matterhorn. It is believed they were attempting to tour to Arolla, Italy on a two-day section of the famous Haute Route, a roughly 75-mile path between Zermatt and Chamonix. However, they disappeared around Tete Blanche mountain, which straddles Switzerland and Italy, prompting a massive response from mountain rescue.

The section of path the group was touring mostly lies below 9,000 feet and isn't believed to be particularly avalanche prone, but according to reporting in the BBC, severe weather has plagued the region in recent days, bringing heavy snowfall and high winds, and is thought to be to blame for the tragedy. The conditions hampered initial rescue efforts, and the bodies were not discovered until Sunday.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been made public, however Reuters reports that the skiers ranged in age from 21 to 58 and five came from the Valais Canton, while one is from Fribourg.

Backcountry skiing safety

Before setting off in the backcountry, you need to have some training in backcountry safety. This means possessing navigation skills such as carrying a compass and knowing how to read a map, and carrying a backcountry first aid kit. You'll also need an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe and a satellite communicator to request help if you need it. Learn more in our article on backcountry skiing.

• Best emergency blankets, bags and shelters 

The Montane Arctic Spine race was never going to be easy. A 293-mile non-stop race along the Kungsleden Trail in Arctic Sweden pulling or carrying everything you need to survive against temperatures as low as -35C. The challenge was so gruesome that only a handful of the most daring athletes set off from the starting line at Abisko Tuesday, February 6. By Sunday, there would only be one runner left.

After racing alone across frozen tundra and snowfields, Irish ultra runner Kevin Leahy was declared the winner of the Arctic Spine. Leahy crossed the finish line  – which had been adjusted by race organizers as the race progressed – about an hour ago. A Youtube video, which you can watch below, shows Leahy finishing on cross country skis while pulling a sled. He says the course beat him up 5 km a day, but he "thoroughly enjoyed" the experience.

"What an adventure," reflects Leahy, sipping a celebratory beer.

"Beautiful scenery. I had some great moments listening to music just cruising along."

By the second night of the race, only four athletes remained, with Robi Dattatreya and Rob Brooks soon dropping out to leave Leahy alone with Ed Sellon. When Sellon called it a day on Sunday after becoming the first person to finish the Montane Arctic Spine Challenger course (129 miles), Leahy found himself the last man standing, but continued solo for two more days before bring crowned the winner a little short of the original intended finish line of Hemavan.

Race organizers say they've got three pizzas and an entire case of beer for Leahy to celebrate his achievement.

"We challenge you to think of a harder-earned medal than the one he has around his neck now. Kev has blazed a trail along the Kungsleden, setting a standard for anyone intrepid enough to take on this race in the future," write the course organizers on Facebook.

"Every kilometre he covered has been a record, and every hour that he remained out there has been a miraculous achievement."

Leahy, who runs a hostel in Killarney, ran this race in support for AsIAm, Ireland's autism charity. He has previously completed the the Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra and the Montane Lapland Arctic Ultra, both of which were captured in a film called 1000km of Chaos.

• The best snowshoes

Some dogs just won’t take no for an answer, as skier Colter Hinchliffe found out when he was joined on a backcountry ski through the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia by a very determined stray. 

He didn’t encourage the dog, In fact, at the start of this video, Hinchliffe is actively trying to lose the mutt, a stray that followed him from the nearby town of Ushguli. But this hound is relentless. Like a Terminator. It just kept on coming.

It eventually wins Hinchliffe over. By the end of the journey he’s proudly calling it a badass, and he even gives the pooch a lift for a bit of downhill action at one point. (Worse language is used in the clip and it’s amusingly poorly bleeped out – we thought we’d warn you just in case that kind of thing offends.)

It seems an awful lot of effort to go to just for a few meat treats, but who knows what goes on in the canine brain? Perhaps he likes a human ski lift once in a while just for the fun of it. 

“Truth be told I was happy to have a buddy,” admitted Hinchliffe. “I was just concerned for his ability to complete the long tour I had in mind. I didn’t feed him until we were stuck in the valley, committed. I didn’t feed him until then as to not encourage him to follow me. I fed him once we were committed to keep him going! He deserved it!”

Apparently, dogs in the area joining skiers on adventures is not uncommon in the area. Maybe they should mention it in their tourist brochures to lure dog loving skiers to the region.

“I already miss my buddy and hope he’s enjoying a new adventure with another lucky skier,” Hinchliffe signs off.

• Best cross country skis: classic, skate and Nordic skis for exploring the backcountry

Winter sports are a great way to keep your active, outdoor lifestyle going year-round. Sure, you can buy some winter traction devices and just keep hiking and trail running through the cold months, but if you’re anywhere with an abundance of snow, it could also be a great opportunity to mix things up and get into something new.

The popular image of winter sports is one of elite skiers flying down slalom runs, snowboarders performing "rad" tricks and of scores of bobble hat wearing youngsters spending more time in the après ski bars than on the slopes. Yet, winter sports offer a huge range of adventure styles, from epic, slower cross country ski journeys and snowshoeing days to committing ski mountaineering routes and daring climbs on vertical ice. There's something for everyone.

The question is, which winter sport do you choose? Do you have a need for speed or do you prefer to slow down and take in your surroundings? Is it all about charting a new course or do you love the uniformity of refining your technique? With so many winter sports, it'd obviously be pricey to try them all to find out which one is for you.

Before you end up with winter hiking boots, ski pants, snowshoes and crampons all gathering dust in your closet, we’ve come up with five different types of adventurer to help you find an activity that suits your adventure style.

Meet the expert

The adrenaline junkie

• Snowboarding is a wonderfully thrilling pursuit
• Ice climbing can involve a fair bit of risk but is hugely rewarding

Is it the thrill you seek when you’re outdoors? Do you want to feel the rush of the wind in your face, make up the rules as you go along and maybe even sling an ice axe or two? If so, you’re most likely craving type 2 fun and might love the creativity of strapping both feet to one single plank and carving your way down the mountain on a snowboard. 

For an even higher risk activity, don a pair of crampons and clamber up a frozen waterfall with ice climbing. Unlike rock climbing routes, ice climbing routes change by the day, so this one is sure to keep you on your toes. The ephemeral nature of frozen ice means that a route that's there one day may not be there the next.

The competitive one

• Alpine, or downhill, skiing offers to opportunity to hone your technique
• The ice rink allows you to develop your skating skills

Perhaps you prefer a little more structure than snowboarding requires and a clear sense of definition and direction so you can be the best at your chose activity. If so, there are winter sports that are a little less freeform and give you plenty of opportunity to work on technique. 

Top of the list is alpine, or downhill, skiing. You might do it on the same terrain as snowboarders, but without your feet tied together you can move in a more uniform fashion that will feel more familiar. 

If you love to focus on technique but want an even more controlled environment than the ski slopes, head to the skating rink where you can focus on skillful gliding, axels and waltzing (you can also skate on frozen lakes in the wild of course, but that version is for adrenaline junkies).

The wayfinder

• Backcountry skiing, cross country skiing and snowshoeing allow you to fully immerse in winter journeys
• Dog lovers will enjoy the pursuit of skijoring

Wayfinders love navigating in the wild, and your winter sport will be just as much about the journey as the destination.

How you explore the wilderness depends on your physical preferences. With backcountry skiing, you can put skins on your skis to glide uphill then remove them and alpine ski downhill, which adds a little excitement.

Cross country skis are skinnier, and better suited to flat or rolling terrain, but great for anyone who wants a serious workout and to travel fast.

If you prefer to keep things at a walking pace and really soak in your surroundings, explore the backcountry on a pair of snowshoes, where you’ll move at a slow hiking pace.

Finally, if you love charting a course and navigating it but don’t want to leave your canine companions behind, harness up your pups and try skijoring.

Finally, if you are navigating the backcountry, remember to bring a compass and an avalanche beacon.

The lighthearted one

• Sledding is great, lighthearted fun that can be enjoyed with little ones

Lots of winter sports are playful, but perhaps none more so than good old fashioned sledding. Sledding might seem like something that’s just for kids, but sleds have come a long way in recent years and kids aren’t required (though they’ll love it if you bring them along). 

Most of the work in sledding comes in trudging uphill with your sled, but then it’s all downhill, usually for a shorter distance than skiing, where you can have a flask of hot chocolate stashed and waiting for you.

The trailblazer

• The sport of ski biking is a relative newcomer and offers plenty of pioneering potential

If you want to get into something for which there aren’t yet a ton of rules, ski biking isn’t exactly new but it’s still very much fringe, at least in the US. This sport entails racing downhill behind the handlebars of a bicycle that’s been modified with ski blades instead of wheels. 

It’s common to also wear skate skis while you’re doing it, and you’ll need edge control like you do for skiing, only you’ll be sitting down and steering like riding a bike. It’s been more popular in Europe but it’s not yet an Olympic sport, so we imagine there’s still plenty of pioneering to be done if you’re up for the challenge.

• Best down jackets: stay warm when the temperature drops

The mystery of a series of polar bear tracks which appeared on an Icelandic glacier this week has been solved. Polar bears are not native to the island nation, though they do occasionally hop an iceberg ride over from Greenland, so when a set of tracks that appeared to be large enough to suggest a polar bear had trekked across the Langjökull ice cap, local officials were quick to launch an investigation.

On Wednesday, RÚV, The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service, reported that a hunter had alerted the police to the presence of what he believed might be polar bear tracks on the ice cap, some 80km from the coast.  

Polar bear attacks are rare, but they do happen and incidents are on the rise. In 2013, a 49-year-old hiker from Maine was attacked by a polar bear while sleeping in his tent during a fjord expedition in northern Canada. More recently, in August 2022, a polar bear attacked a group of campers in Norway’s Svalbard islands, the same location where a group of British teenagers were attacked in 2011, leaving one dead.  

Consequently, the Icelandic Coast Guard leapt into action to get to the bottom of the sighting.

"These animals can travel long distances and we take all such reports seriously and investigate. The Coast Guard was ready to fly and then you can inspect from the air, which is the fastest," says local senior police officer Ásmundur Kristinn Ásmundsson, senior police officer in an interview with RÚV.

Just a few hours later, however, a local guide by the name of Arngrímur Hermannsson announced on Facebook that the real source of the footprints was none other than Colorado ski mountaineer, Jon Kedrowski, who along with Colin O' Brady was up on Langjökull last week practicing for a cross-country skiing trip to Antarctica.

Kedrowski, best known for his book Sleeping at the Summits, is not exactly diminutive in stature, but neither is he the size of a bear. His feet are only a slightly above average US size 12, according to Hermannsson. The real issue, it turns out, was blisters.

"Jon got rented skiing shoes that hurt him so after two days he packed up his shoes and put on huge cold boots like they wear in the Antarctic when camping," writes Hermannsson.

"He stepped on these shoes, (which) are more like giant socks, the next 4 days around Langjökull."

His giant shoes were what left polar-bear sized tracks on the glacier, and now Icelanders and the local seal population can breathe a sign of relief – though Hermannsson warns Coloradans might want to look out.

"Now he has escaped the country and flown to Colorado with Icelandair where you will find the polar bear."

According to Guide to Iceland, Langjökull is the second largest ice cap in Iceland, after Vatnajökull. It is situated west of the Icelandic interior, in the Highlands of Iceland. The ice is up to 1,900 feet thick and the highest point of the ice cap is about 4,757 feet above sea level.

• Glacier hiking: how to go walking on a glacier

Rossignol OT 65 Positrack: first impressions

The design of the Rossignol OT 65 Positrack boasts wide dimensions, plenty of sidecut and partial metal edges, all of which enhance this ski’s stability and edge control when you’re off-trail in natural snow. But is that enough to place it amongst the best cross country skis on the market?

One feature that certainly makes it a contender is that Rossignol have deliberately built this ski shorter than most to make it more accessible to a greater number of skiers (see also: what size cross country skis do I need? Calculate the best length for you). And they also gave it a lot of torsional rigidity and flex from tip to tail, to give skiers confidence. It’s easy to turn and intuitive to maneuver through glades, and across powdery slopes. The ski also comes with a binding plate which is always handy.

Rossignol OT 65 Positrack: on the slopes

If you’re looking for one ski that a) is heaps of fun in a lot of conditions; b) you can wear to tow a sled to a backcountry hut; c) you can zoom around your nearest groomed Nordic network in; or d) won’t be overwhelmed by some backcountry adventures – then the Rossignol OT 65 Positrack ticks all those boxes.

It has metal edges in the middle of the underside of the ski, which, on test, I found didn’t interfere with tracked skiing, but they did give me an edge that I could use to bite into form snow when I wasn’t in a track.

The waxless, fish-scale base has good grip and glide in all snow conditions, and there’s no prep required to get out on snow, so you have no excuses to stay home.

• How Advnture tests products

Rossignol R-Skin Ultra: first impressions

Made for fitness skiers and for training, the Rossignol R-Skin Ultra (available direct from Rossignol) is an agile classic ski for kicking and gliding in all conditions, with no waxing required. It truly does stake its claim as one of the best cross country skis out there.

Built-in mohair inserts give this ski grip to propel you forward. And it comes with a pre-installed binding plate that lets the ski flex naturally for the best experience on snow (learn more about cross country ski bindings here).

The Rossignol R-Skin Ultra boasts superb snow feel, excellent precision and good glide. It also has a low barrier to entry. Whether you’re an athletic person looking for a new cardio activity, or a skier who wants to hit the trails without having to prep your skis, this design delivers.

Rossignol R-Skin Ultra: on the slopes

Sometimes waxing can be the biggest barrier to hitting the snow on cross country skis, but the Rossignol R-Skin Ultras will kick and glide for around 100 to 150 days before you need to replace the mohair. 

In the track, they’re precise and powerful, with a similar lightweight honeycomb construction core that you will typically find in race skis, but more reasonably priced. The cap is constructed with multidirectional fiberglass that balances flex and torsional rigidity from tip to tail. This construction kept me in control when the snow was soft, icy and everything in between. 

• How Advnture tests products

Atomic Redster C9 Carbon Skintec: first impressions 

Made for racing and high-performance training, the Atomic Redster C9 Carbon Skintec (available direct from Atomic Skis) is a light and stiff carbon fiber ski with a sidecut designed for speed. Which are just some of the reasons why it scores highly in our best cross country skis buying guide.

The Redster C9 Carbon Skintec uses a sintered World Cup base with a special additive for glide and mohair strips for grip, and this combination creates a ski that is lightning fast on snow (so when it comes to choosing cross country skis these are not clearly not recommended for beginners).

The Redster C9 uses Atomic’s featherlight core reinforced with carbon fiber to give this ski an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.

Atomic Redster C9 Carbon Skintec: on the slopes

Sometimes carbon skis just feel stiff. This one feels energetic. And every bit of drive I put into it was noticeably translated into positive forward momentum. 

The bonded plate and binding system make your cross country ski boots and the skis feel like one, with no energy wasted whatsoever. However, I did find that mounting the binding isn’t as straightforward as it is on other skis with pre-installed plates. 

Because snow temperature changes, I love that this ski’s Easy Skin Exchange lets me change skins in a matter of seconds, without the need for tools. This feature lets racers and high-level skiers choose the right skin for the day minutes before heading out, with no waxing required. And the pure mohair strips give best-in-class grip.

• How Advnture tests products

The most important thing about choosing the best cross country skis is knowing what you want to use them for. Because cross country skiing is a term that encompasses a wide range of snow-sliding activities, from kicking and gliding on waxed or waxless skinny skis on a groomed track, to skate skiing on groomed paths, exploring unmaintained trails and bushwhacking through the woods to carve powdery turns.

What all forms of cross country skiing have in common, though, is the way your boot attaches to your ski. Unlike with alpine skiing, where your toes and heels are locked onto the ski with an alpine binding, with cross country skiing your boots are attached to your ski at the toes only.

Scroll down to the bottom of this article for more details on the differences between classic, skate, and touring skis, or read on for our top recommendations.

The best cross country skis

For skiers looking for one ski that does it all, there’s no better choice. A classic ski for use on or off-track, Fischer’s Spider 62 Crown Xtralite has full-length metal edges for turnability and control. It’s an ideal ski for mellow, untracked exploring. The ski’s air-channeled wood core makes the Spider 62 Crown Xtralite stable when you’re descending. It’s durable, so you can plan to get many years of use out of these skis, and the core combined with metal edges give grip and control whether you’re in the track or out.

These skis are made for beginner / intermediate skiers, but they’re fun to ski regardless of your experience. On test we found the underfoot waxless fish-scale pattern gripped on uphills without compromising glide on flats and downs. And when paired with a race boot, these skis were efficient in a groomed track.

Wide, short, metal-edged skis with a permanent skin on the bottom, the Altai Hoks are made for finding your own adventure in the woods, meadows and anywhere else you want to go. Hok (pronounced hawk) is the word used for ski by the Tuwa people in the Altai Mountains.

They combine the turnability and float of a backcountry touring ski with the ease and convenience of a waxless Nordic ski. They can be mounted with either a universal binding that can be used with any winter boot, or with a 75mm three-pin binding for better performance.

An adapter plate makes these compatible with Rottefella NNN BC and Solomon BC bindings. Because of the width of the ski, it climbs better than most other waxless Nordic skis.

The Hok comes in three sizes: 125cm, 145cm, and a kids’ version – the Balla Hok – which is 99cm. The 145cm version is best for skiers who scout the woods for untracked downhills; it has the most float and glide. The 125cm version is more maneuverable (it’s practically a snowshoe substitute) and it’s easier to use with a light boot or universal binding.

Read our full Altai Hok review

If you’re looking for one ski that’s fun in a lot of conditions; that you can wear to tow a sled into a backcountry hut; that you can zoom around your nearest groomed Nordic network on; and that won’t be overwhelmed by some backcountry adventures, then this is a great choice.

The Rossignol OT 65 bridges the gap between off-trail skiing and backcountry touring. Wide dimensions, sidecut and partial metal edges enhance this ski’s stability and edge control when you’re off-trail in natural snow. Rossignol built this ski shorter to make it more accessible to more skiers. And they gave it a lot of torsional rigidity and flex from tip to tail to give skiers confidence. It’s easy to turn and intuitive to maneuvre through glades and across powdery slopes. The ski incomes with a binding plate.

A light and stiff carbon fiber ski with a sidecut designed for speed, Atomic’s Redster C9 Carbon Skintec is the best cross countrry ski for racing and high-performance training. The ski uses a sintered World Cup base with a special additive for glide and mohair strips for grip. The combo creates a ski that’s lightning fast on snow.

The Redster C9 uses Atomic’s featherlight core reinforced with carbon fiber to give this ski exceptional power-to-weight. Sometimes carbon skis just feel stiff. This one feels energetic.

Snow temperature changes, and our expert tester loved that this ski’s Easy Skin Exchange allows you to change skins in seconds without tools – a feature that lets racers and high level skiers choose the right skin for the day minutes before heading out, with no waxing required. And the pure mohair strips gave best-in-class grip.

This World Cup race ski was recently redesigned with a lower and shorter tip that reduces its swing weight to minimize the effort it takes to make each stride, making it easier to ski. Because, when you’re racing, every second and every bit of energy saving matters.

This is an ultralight, agile, stable ski (the core is 80% air) and it is Fischer’s top performer. It’s built with Cold Base Bonding, which optimizes the diamond ground ski base for the highest level of wax absorption in order to give this ski the best glide.

The core is wrapped with a torsion-free and break-resistant cap for durability. Then each handmade ski is computer-analyzed to make sure it closely matches its partner ski, and both skis are factory tuned to best match each other’s residual tension and camber pressure.

These skis come pre-waxed with an infrared preparation that protects the bases from oxidation, and gives them great glide and climbing ability.

A lightweight classic touring ski for skiing in and out of the tracks, the Madshus Fjelltech M50 uses integrated mohair and nylon skins for grip and three-quarter-length steel edges for control. The 50mm waist ski is a fast cruiser on groomed Nordic tracks, but it’s also a fun ski to explore with. The ski now comes with a pre-installed binding plate for tool-free set up. The ski is built on a farmed Paulownia wood core wrapped in fiberglass and carbon fiber that help the ski feel more stable.

On test we found that this ski glided as well as it gripped, and because it's narrow, you can move fast through the wintery landscape. But, when it’s icy, we would have liked full metal edges for more stopping power on downhills.

A ski for exploring in snow from hardpacked to deep, the Madshus Panorama M78is a ticket to backcountry fun, letting you carve powdery turns in mellow terrain.

A wider tip, which is also called the shovel, helps this ski stay afloat in deeper snow. It’s well suited to a three-pin binding and a more robust boot for maximum maneuverability in variable terrain. The fischscale waxless base gives this ski confidence-inspiring grip on flats and climbs while the progressive sidecut facilitates carving on descents.

Full-length steel edges provide control. Don’t expect this ski to give you the carvability and control of an alpine touring skis, but do use it for local adventures, and scouting new lines. It’s poppy and playful thanks to the interlocking strands of fiberglass and carbon fiber that wrap the ski’s core. That’s also what gives this ski stability and strength while keeping it light and lively, and makes it the best cross country ski for multi-day adventures.

Made for fitness skiers and for training, Rossignol’s R-Skin Ultra is an agile classic ski for kicking and gliding in all conditions, no waxing required.

Built-in mohair inserts give this ski grip to propel you forward. And it comes with a pre-installed binding plate that lets the ski flex naturally for the best experience on snow.

Rossignol’s R-Skin Ultra has superb snow feel, excellent precision and good glide. It also has a low barrier to entry. Whether you’re an athletic person looking for a new cardio activity, or a skier who wants to hit the trails without having to prep your skis, this ski delivers.

How we tested the best cross country skis

All of the cross country and Nordic skis featured here have been extensively tested by our highly experienced winter gear reviewer, who put them through their paces on both groomed and ungroomed terrain in the great white hills of North America and Norway, the home of Nordic skiing. Each set of skis was then assessed against a set of criteria ranging from the comfort of the bindings to the performance quality of the skis themselves.

For more details, see how Advnture tests products.

Classic, skate, and touring skis

Most cross country skis are narrow. A lot of cross country skiing is done on groomed tracks in Nordic skiing areas. Classic skis, used to stride forward by kicking and gliding, are typically 68mm or narrower, and that’s the width of most groomed skis tracks. Classic skis have minimal sidecut to help you track and glide straight, which is to say that the front, back and middle of the ski are all about the same width. Classic skis most often have a waxless, waxable or mohair base.

Skate skis, made for gliding along the snow using the same motion as ice skating, are typically light and often between 41mm and 45mm wide. Like classic skis designed to be used in a groomed track, they have little sidecut.

Some classic skis have metal edges for control outside the track, and a wider profile with more pronounced sidecut. Those skis are made for use in ungroomed snow. If you want a ski for use both with and without groomed tracks, buy some that are 68mm or narrower. If you want skis for touring, exploring and point-to-point off-piste skiing, opt for wider skis with metal edges and more sidecut, which facilitates turning.

Race skis are narrower than those intended for recreational skiing, because the less amount of ski you have making contact with the snow, the faster you will go. Many race skis are under 60mm, and most have ultralight construction, often using carbon fiber and extremely light materials in the core.

Choosing the best cross country skis for you

As we have seen, cross country skis come in many shapes and sizes. The best cross country skis for you are the ones that most suit your preferred form of cross country skiing, whether that’s skate style, classic skiing on groomed trails or point-to-point touring and exploring in the backcountry. Beyond that, the following factors are also important considerations.

Traction

Some cross country skis use a waxless base with and in-molded fish scale or similar patterns that bite into the snow for traction on climbs. Skate skis and waxable classic skis grip the snow with wax that’s optimized for the day’s snow temperatures. Classic race skis either have a waxable base or mohair straps for traction. The mohair strips work like “skins” on backcountry touring skis. The hairs glide forward then stick into the snow to prevent you from siding backwards.

Length

Buy skis based on your weight and ability. Longer skis will glide more quickly, and they’re better for more experiences skiers; shorter skis are easier to control, and more maneuverable in tight terrain, like trees.

Width and edging

Wider skis will be more stable. Metal edges assist with stopping, and can also help with carving turns. Consider a wider cross country ski with metal edges if you’re likely to be venturing beyond the groomed tracks.

Wax

Waxless skis are good for grab-and-go adventures, while waxed skis require some thought and knowledge, as you need to apply the right wax to match the temperature of the snow (it’s a fine art).

More skis = more fun

If you don’t want to have to choose between skiing groomed or ungroomed terrain, there are skis available that are fun in tracks as well as being a blast in the woods. Alternatively, if you get out on the white stuff regularly, there is a compelling argument for having multiple pairs of skis, so you always have the right tool for the job and the day’s conditions.

What to do with your old skis

Tossing your old skis into landfill would be a real shame. If they're still in decent condition, you could donate or sell them, and maybe recoup a little of the cost of your replacements.

If your skis are no longer snow-worthy, there's a surprising number of companies that will accept them for upcycling into funky furniture, such as Green Mountain Ski Furniture in Vermont, and SkiChair in Massachusetts. Try searching for ski upcycling projects in your area to see what's available.

• The best men’s ski pants: leg protection for skiing and boarding

Altai Hok: first impressions 

So why Altai Hok? Well, Hok, which is pronounced 'hawk', is the word for ski used by the Tuwa people who live, and ski, in the Altai Mountains. So they should know a thing or two about crafting the best cross country skis.

A wide, short, metal-edged ski with a permanent skin on the bottom, Altai’s Hoks (available direct from Altai Skis) are made for finding your own adventure in the woods, meadows and anywhere else you want to go.

They provide the turnability and float of a backcountry touring ski with the ease and convenience of a waxless Nordic ski (see also: Choosing cross country skis). They can be mounted with either a universal binding that can be used with any winter boot, or with a 75mm three-pin binding for better performance. An adapter plate makes these compatible with Rottefella NNN BC and Solomon BC bindings.

Because of the width of the ski, it climbs better than most other waxless Nordic skis. The Hok comes in three sizes: 125 cm, 145 cm, and a kids’ version, the Balla Hok, which is 99cm. The 145 version is best for skiers who scout the woods for untracked downhills; it has the most float and glide. The 125 is more maneuverable (it’s practically a snowshoe substitute) and it’s easier to ski with a light boot or universal binding.

Altai Hok: on the slopes

I’m lucky enough to own a lot of skis, and these are the ones I use the most. I wear the Hoks to cruise around the woods behind my house in winter to exercise the dogs. And I wear them to ski mountain bike trails all through the white season. 

The Hoks are skis that facilitate all sorts of adventures (so make sure you know your cross country skiing techniques for all types of terrain and snow). They make slopes that would be boring on a full alpine touring ski loads of fun, but they’ve got more stability and better uphill climbing capabilities than other Nordic skis. They can also go anywhere, and they’re fun even when there’s little snow on the ground. 

• How Advnture tests products

Are you one of the lucky ones who's seen a lot of snow this year? If so, you might be looking for different ways to explore it away from the ski resorts and crowds, but if you didn’t grow up cross country skiing, you may be a bit baffled by all the new terms and possibilities when it comes to the type of skiing you might want to do. One of the most frequent questions we see is, what is Nordic skiing? And how is it different from cross country skiing? So, we’re here to clear up any confusion and get you out cruising in the white stuff before the weather warms up and you have to pull your trail running shoes back out.

What is Nordic skiing?

In short, Nordic skiing is another term for cross country skiing – the two terms are synonymous and both describe skiing where you provide your own locomotion to propel you forward, rather than relying on slopes and gravity. Why Nordic? Well, though the original skis were probably devised about 10,000 years ago in northern China, and humans have been using skiing as a mode of transportation since then, most of the modern history of skiing originates in Norway.

The Norwegian army was known to perform skills tests that involved downhill skiing in the 1800s, and a military officer named Olaf Rye was thought to be the first ski jumper with an impressive 31-foot jump back in 1809. In those early days, all skiing involved long, skinny wooden skis that you could use to ski across country as well as downhill, though rather clumsily by today’s standards. The toe of your leather ski boots would be attached to your skis via the bindings, but your heel would be free to allow you to glide and hike in your skis. Soon, however, the Norwegians also contributed to the history of skiing with the advent of camber on skis, which allowed skiers to find their edges and turn and stop more easily. 

Presumably, this type of skiing was all just called “skiing” until alpine skiing came along, with alpine bindings which secured your heel for easier downhill travel and the first ski lift in 1936 at Sun Valley, Idaho, all of which necessitated the need for a distinction. Hence, these days, when you go skiing across country with your heel free rather than alpine skiing, it is sometimes referred to as Nordic skiing. Unless it’s referred to as cross country skiing. We don’t know at what point people started referring to this type of skiing as “cross country,” but today, that term is used more commonly than Nordic, and all you really need to know is that they are one and the same. 

Further, there are two techniques that fall under the umbrella terms of Nordic/cross country skiing – classic technique and skate skiing. If you are doing either of these techniques, you are Nordic skiing, or cross country skiing. Whichever term you prefer, really.

Just to complicate matters a little, you also sometimes hear the word “touring” used to describe cross country skiing in the backcountry, away from groomed tracks. This is confusing because “touring” can also apply to alpine touring, where you put skins on your skis to ski uphill with your heel free, then clip your heel in to switch to alpine skiing for the descent. If someone invites you to go ski touring, just make sure you have the right skis for what they mean.

What is the difference between Nordic skis and cross country skis?

Okay, so here things do get a little more complicated. Even though Nordic and cross country skiing are the same thing, the words do sometimes refer to different types of skis. If you are shopping for cross country skis and spot both terms being used, you can usually assume the ones called 'cross country skis' are skinny skis with no edges, which you can use for skiing on flat terrain, groomed tracks and for skate skiing. The ones labeled 'Nordic skis' will be a little wider and have metal edges, making them more suitable for crossing hilly terrain and getting into deeper snow. You could use Nordic skis on a groomed track, but you can’t very easily use cross country skis in deep snow and hill terrain. You’ll want metal edges for that. 

So there you have it. There's no difference between the types of skiing, there might be a difference the skis, and if you're unsure you should ask questions before you get a six-foot-long package delivered to your door that costs an arm and a leg to mail back.

• Best ski jackets: stay warm on your winter adventures

We’ve previously written about the best National Parks to visit in winter, focusing on the spots where you can still reasonably pull on your best hiking boots and hit the trails in mild temperatures, but what about those of you who actually want to play in the white stuff? If you love skiing you probably know that pricey downhill resorts aren’t always where it’s at, and you’ll be pleased to know that there are National Parks with areas that transform into winter sports havens during the snowy months. The best National Parks for winter sports provide peaceful places where you can cross country ski, snowshoe, downhill ski and sled all while enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. 

1. Yosemite, California

Yosemite has a way of sneaking onto most of the “best of” lists and it’s no surprise, given it’s plunging waterfalls, majestic cliffs and tremendous trees. Yosemite protects an area of the high Sierra Nevada mountains so it should come as no surprise that certain areas of the park get loads of snow; so much, in fact, that the park once bid to host the winter Olympics. In fact, the park is home to the country’s oldest downhill ski area, Badger Pass, as a result of the failed bid, where you can take lessons, ski and snowboard on 10 runs or go tubing. 

Beyond that, Tioga and Glacier Point roads both close in the winter, restricting vehicular access to much of the park, but if you pull on snowshoes or cross country skis, you can keep travelling and even enjoy overnights in the backcountry hut system. Crane Flat, home to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, as well as Mariposa Grove, both offer unique opportunities to snowshoes and ski amongst the giant sequoias. 

2. Olympic, Washington

Gorgeous Olympic National Park up in Washington is another park with downhill skiing and snowboarding available. Head up to Hurricane Ridge in the northern portion of the park and most winters you’ll get twice as much snow than a lot of east coast ski resorts. With a lift, two rope tows, 10 runs to play on, and a terrain park, you can get some of the most memorable skiing and riding of your life with views of the Cascades and Vancouver Island if it’s clear. If you prefer off piste adventures, there’s plenty of backcountry to explore on cross country and backcountry set ups as well as snowshoes, too. 

3. Grand Teton, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park protects one of the most standout areas of alpine terrain in the country. The Teton Range is blanketed in tons of snow each winter, and the park offers cross country ski and snowshoe trails ranging from groomed, flat roads with views of the jagged Teton peaks to rolling hills as well as steep backcountry adventures, all of which you can enjoy in the relative peace and solitude of the park. 

4. Yellowstone, Wyoming

Like most National Parks, Yellowstone is open year-round. However much of it is inaccessible during the snowy winter months – unless you want to rent a snowmobile or explore on skis or snowshoes, that is. Most of the roads transform into ski and snowshoe trails, which are supplemented by practically endless backcountry options so long as you’re experienced in backcountry snow sports. Another option is to take a guided snowmobile or snowcoach tour with one of dozens of local companies. 

5. Acadia, Maine

Over on the east coast, the frigid temperatures at gorgeous Acadia National Park mean the snow and ice formations sometimes come right up to the edge of the Atlantic. The park does plow roads on the Mount Desert Island section in winter, but most other roads are open for snowmobile access only which means they are also available for cross country skiers and snowshoers, though do be aware of snowmobiles. The best terrain for skiing and snowshoeing however is on the 45 miles of carriage roads which provide tranquil cross country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities away from the whine of snow machines. 

6. Voyageurs, Minnesota

Minnesotans are known for their love of cross country skiing – how else could they survive the brutal winters up there? – so it should come as no surprise that when watery Voyageurs freezes over, they make hay. No mountains here, but Voyageurs protects four large tranquil takes up near the Canadian border so in the summer it’s popular for water sports, but when those lakes freeze over, they’re a paradise for snowmobiling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and, of course, getting your ice fishing rod out (with a license). There are equipment rentals at Rainy Lake Visitor Center and a new addition is the Sphunge Island Sledding Hill. One of the most popular winter sports here, however, is driving your car over the so-called Rainy Lake Ice Road, otherwise known as a frozen lake. 

• Best down jackets and puffers: stay warm all winter long

It might be best known for its world class Rocky Mountain skiing, but there are plenty of good reasons you might be looking for things to do in Vail besides skiing: perhaps the conditions are poor, maybe you tweaked your knee yesterday or quite possibly your quads are just screaming for a rest after all that powder skiing. So what can you do besides wander round the shops examining fur coats you’ll never be able to afford and eating in very expensive restaurants? Having lived there for 12 years, I can confirm that the place is largely centered around skiing, shopping and après skiing, and that’s fair enough, but there are still lots of fun adventures you can have in the snow without a ski pass, and some slow-paced leisurely pursuits for when you’re too tired to pull your ski pants on again. Here are my top eight favorite recommendations for things to do in Vail besides skiing. 

1. Take a hike 

If your legs are fried from skiing, this obviously won’t hold much appeal, but bear with me here, because not all Rocky Mountain adventures have to be fast paced to be epic. If you’re tired, you can stroll alongside Gore Creek on a trail which is flat and beautiful. For snowy days or steeper terrain, grab a pair of snowshoes and check out some of these great snowshoe trails in and around Vail. And if you’ve got the gas in the tank, you can put traction devices on your hiking boots, pick up some trekking poles and hike up the mountain before it opens or after the lifts close for the day. My favorite way to time this is to start an hour before the lifts open so you can enjoy the morning light, then you get a free gondola ride down from the top and can warm up with hot coffee and a good breakfast in the village. 

2. Stride and glide 

The skiing on the mountain is truly marvelous, but sometimes it’s not so much that you don’t want to ski as you can’t afford a lift ticket, or you don’t want to deal with crowded cat tracks and getting on and off the chairlift. For a more peaceful and affordable experience, and a much better workout, head over to Vail’s Nordic Center on the golf course and try some classic cross country skiing or skate skiing on their 17 miles of track. They’ve also got 10km of snowshoe trails and 13km of fat bike trails for a really novel snow adventure. Best of all? The golf course has unobstructed views of the Gore Range, and it’s heavenly at sunset. 

3. Sling some axes 

Sure, your legs are tired from shredding gnar, but that doesn’t mean you can’t sling an ice axe or two. East Vail is renowned for its phenomenal mixed and ice climbing routes on the frozen waterfalls that form on both sides of the valley, around the Vail Racquet Club and Booth Creek. This isn’t something you can just rock up and try if you’re inexperienced, but if you’re an avid ice climber, don’t come here without your crampons. 

4. Get your skates on 

If your fantasy winter vacation involves you slicing and gliding across the ice and spinning like a ballerina, Vail has several outdoor ice rinks to choose from, including the rink at Solaris in the heart of Vail and another over in Lionshead Plaza. If you’re good, other holidaymakers will love sipping hot chocolate and watching you, but no pressure! 

5. Discover the botanical gardens 

Botanical gardens definitely don’t seem like something you’d find at such high altitude, or a place you’d visit in winter, but the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens make for a surprisingly lovely winter adventure. These are some of the highest botanical gardens in the world and though lots of the alpine plants they protect will be covered in snow, you can still visit these beautiful gardens in winter. Find the gardens over by Ford Amphitheater. The trails are not maintained, but they have free snowshoes you can borrow to explore (a donation is suggested) and do a spot of bird watching, and they also have frequent guided snowshoe tours and other educational programs. 

6. Get high 

No, I don’t mean drive down to Eagle-Vail to visit one of the multitude of marijuana dispensaries, although that is a valid activity in Vail. Just because you don’t want to ski doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get on the gondola and get up high. Hop on one of the heated cabins of Eagle-Bahn Gondola out of Lionshead village and be whisked 2,200ft up the mountain in just eight minutes. From the top of the gondola at 10, 250ft, you’ll have splendid views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness, including the Gore Range and Mount of the Holy Cross. There are also places to eat with a view, and Adventure Ridge where you can go snow tubing. 

7. Learn the history of Vail’s ski heritage 

The Colorado Snow Sports Museum is housed in the transportation center, and I’m ashamed to admit that I walked past it for 12 years and never went inside. Last year, when I went back to Vail for a week of spring skiing, I finally paid it a visit and it was stupendous. It’s free to enter, and in addition to all the cool old ski equipment going back over the decades, you can learn all about the history of the famed 10th Mountain Division, who trained at nearby Camp Hale, went away to fight in World War II, then came back and started a ski resort. The story is wonderfully captured in a short Warren Miller film called Climb to Glory. Don’t be an idiot like me and make sure to spend half an hour there. 

8. Have a spa day 

Finally, if all of the above is sounding a bit too high octane, why not stay in the village and pamper yourself? Vail Village is absolutely rammed with spas, and as someone who worked in one of those spas for years, I can tell you that they have some of the best massage therapists in the world. The prices are, well, what you’d expect for this neck of the woods, but the treatment will be top notch. Most places give you full use of the facilities when you book a massage or facial, so you can take a yoga class before your treatment then soak in one of the outdoor hot tubs afterwards with the snow melting as it lands on your head. Go on, you’re worth it. 

Skiing is probably the last sport that people with back pain are likely to consider. But, according to a leading UK osteopath, a trip to the slopes could be just the remedy.

Sensible levels of skiing can provide numerous benefits for those suffering with back and neck pain, says Mr Michael Fatica, an osteopath with Back in Shape Program. 

He claims that because skiing is a low-impact form of exercise, it can help to strengthen the key lower-body muscle groups that support the spine. In many cases, he reports, skiing can help to alleviate back pain and for some people, it can cure their back pain.

Fatica said: “The potential dangers of winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are well-documented. However, for many people skiing can actually help to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, including the core, glutes and quads. These areas are all vital in helping to minimise lower back stress. 

“Skiing can also help improve overall cardio fitness levels. When combined, these benefits can significantly reduce pressure on the spine and, as a result, help to alleviate back pain.

"In the longer-term, skiing can result in significant benefits for overall back health as the lower body becomes stronger and less dependent solely on the back for stability.”

How to prepare your body for skiing

It is important to build up strength exercises before a skiing adventure or holiday and whether it is downhill skiing, ski touring or cross country skiing. This is the case, if you are new to skiing or a seasoned skier.

Fatica says: “It’s crucial to build up your strength before going skiing in an effective manner, which can take several months prior to going.”

Some good exercises to build into daily routines in the months, weeks and even days leading up to a skiing adventure, include:

Lower impact exercises: Try the cross trainer for fitness and to build strength. Increasing the resistance on the machine week by week. You should feel the desire to stop because your legs are burning from the workout, rather than your lungs are out of breath.

Leg strengthening: Exercises such as squats and lunges will help to to strengthen legs. The goal is higher reps, 15 to 25 rather than 8-10 reps. 

Core exercises: Include abdominal rotations (in the gym), dead bugs (at home) and/or side planks. Again, higher reps, 15-25 for 3 x sets of each exercise.

Lunge twists: These help to strengthen the legs, lower back and core simultaneously. They also develop balance for the knees. 15-25 walking lunges is recommended, with a slow twist on each lunge, to the side of the forward leg.

Ski injury prevention tips 

Fatica is also keen to point out how there are potential health risks associated with skiing, including the back, although there is plenty that skiers and snowboarders can do before heading off for a trip.

He says: “While skiing can help to alleviate back pain,  this type of sport can also lead to muscle strains in the lower back, inflammation of the small joints on the back of the spine – particularly common among snowboarders and the ‘side-on’ posture they need to adopt – and whiplash from falls, or collisions, can all go hand in hand with skiing.

“However,  with the right preparation and regime in the weeks and months leading up to a skiing trip most back and neck injuries can be prevented, or at least minimized.” 

Tips for back injury or pain prevention while skiing

Stretching or some light massage: Skiing puts pressure on the legs and lower back muscles, which are often not conditioned to deal with the duration spent on the slopes. Simple, regular stretching or a massage at the end of each day will help keep muscles in good condition. A warm shower or bath will also provide welcome relief.

Cold ice: Repetitive stress and fatigue of the lower back are common among skiers. Cold ice placed on the base of the spine for five minutes at the end of the day will help ease any inflammation. 

Realign posture: Lying over a rolled-up towel for five-minute intervals will help arch the lower back, which is very important to counteract the constant ‘forward bent’ position skiing requires.

Warm-up tips for skiers

It’s also good idea to warm up each day before skiing. Warm-up skiing exercises include: 

Side bend: Stand up straight with the feet hip width apart. Keeping your chest facing forwards, run your hand down the side of your thigh, while slowly bending over to that same side. With your other arm, stretch over your head to release some of the muscles on the side of your lower back. Do not bend forwards. Repeat this both sides.

You can also perform this movement on one knee, bending away from the knee that is on the floor. Again, ensure good posture and hold the stretch for 10-15 seconds and repeat a couple of times each side. 

• Best ski gloves: for snug hands all season long

Isn't the changing of the seasons magnificent? The coming of winter opens up whole new adventure potential that simply isn't possible in the summer months. Ice climbing, winter mountaineering, snowboarding, ice fishing, resort skiing – even sledging! There are so many wonderful ways to enjoy the freezing season.

For a lot of trail runners, winter’s arrival is no excuse for hitting the treadmill. Snow-covered trails can provide some great training ground, making you work leg muscles that you don’t normally need to recruit. 

However, there’s another way you might make strides over frozen ground in winter months, and that’s on a pair of cross country skis. These two disciplines share some surprising similarities and some obvious differences, and choosing between the two might come down to how much time and money you want to spend, how far into the backcountry you like to go or how much of a workout you want to get. 

In this feature, we take a look at the benefits and downsides of cross country skiing vs trail running in winter to help you choose the best fast-paced adventure this season. 

Meet the expert

Physical impact and muscles used

• Cross country skiing has an extremely low impact on ankles, knees, hips and the spine
• It's a great way to train, as it puts your joints through less wear and tear
• The muscle groups used in both pursuits are similar
• Cross country skiing uses your core, hip flexors, quads and glutes more

One of the first things most people note when they try cross country skiing for the first time is that the movements largely mimic those of running, with one glaring exception: it has an extremely low impact on your ankles, knees, hips and spine. Because you’re not lifting your legs, you’re saving the soft tissue in these joints from taking the force of each step. Obviously if you choose to completely replace trail running with cross country skiing for the winter, you’ll need to ease back into running come the spring to give your body time to adapt again, but as a form of cross training, it’s a great way to get more workouts in each winter with less wear and tear on your joints. Purely from the standpoint of your joints, cross country skiing wins over trail running.

Because the motions of cross country skiing and trail running are similar, you can expect to condition similar muscles, but cross country skiing will require more from your core, hip flexors, quads and glutes, the latter of which are often underused in running, while using poles will give your upper body a better workout than swinging your arms when you’re running.

Intensity and calories burned

• Cross country skiing is the best cardiovascular exercise you can do

When you love trail running but the conditions aren’t great, every other workout can seem a bit wimpy in comparison. Not cross country skiing. Cross country skiing will feel like a serious lung buster to even the most seasoned runners, especially as you get used to the gliding motion of pushing your skis along a track. 

How many calories you burn running depends on various factors, but one thing is for sure – nothing beats cross country skiing, which has been found to be the best cardiovascular exercise out there, ahead of activities like long distance running, snowshoeing, cycling and rowing.  

Pace

• Cross country skiing is generally faster than running

If you love trail running, you probably love moving swiftly, so having to slow down to contend with snowy conditions underfoot, or even wearing traction devices, can feel a bit disappointing. Now we’ve no idea what your standard running pace is, but the fitness tracking app Strava in 2015 revealed data that showed the average speed for men in America was 9:03 minutes per mile (1.6km) and for women it was 10:21 per mile, or around six miles per hour. Get some cross country skis on your feet, however, and you can get that pace up to 10 miles per hour no problem, faster if you’re skate skiing. This means you’ll get to see more of that beautiful winter landscape in less time! 

Access and time commitment

• Trail running is very accessible, as you can run in so many places
• It doesn't take long to get ready for a trail run
• Cross country skiing relies on there being a certain amount of snow
• Getting prepared to go cross country skiing is a bigger commitment than going for a run

One of the fabulous things about trail running is that you can do it in a lot of places, especially if you have the right gear in winter. You’ve got hiking trails, country roads that turn into trails when they’re snow covered, and you can take it through forests and across open plains and hills that when frozen might be easier to run on than during their usual muddy conditions. When it comes to running in deep snow, however, you’ll be a bit limited and this is where cross country skis can give you access to spaces that you might not be able to run on.

That said, cross country skiing does require a certain amount of snow to even get going, and if there isn’t tons of snow in low lying areas you might be limited to Nordic ski centers, which can be great, but you might not find you have as much widespread access on skis as you do on foot.

Another beautiful thing about trail running is that it doesn’t have to take a lot of time to get ready, especially if you’re lucky enough to live near a great trail. Basically you just pull on your best trail running shoes and go. Cross country skiing is going to take a bit more getting organized, what with packing up your car, driving to a Nordic center or area with lots of snow, and getting your boots and skis on. With practice, you’ll get to be a pro at the routine, but it’s not likely to be as time efficient as running. Since you burn more calories, there could be an argument that you could ski for a shorter period of time than you’d spend running, but who wants to do that?

Gear and expense

• Trail running needs less gear and is less expensive
• You often have to pay to access cross country skiing venues

Another area where trail running definitely wins out over cross country skiing is when it comes to the gear needed, and the costs incurred. We all love trail running for its low maintenance appeal – lace up your shoes, layer a running jacket over your top and pull on some running gloves and a headband and you’re good to go. Specialized running gear is nice, but let’s be honest, you can even make do with hiking gear you have around the house, like a breathable waterproof jacket and your thermal leggings. 

For cross country skiing, however, you can’t simply make do. You’ll need to get yourself cross country skis, boots, bindings and poles at a minimum. If you’re skiing at Nordic centers, you’ll have to pay for access, too, whereas you can go trail running for free in most places except maybe National Parks. Though the gear and ski passes are nowhere near as expensive as they are for downhill skiing, cross country skiing is definitely going to come with a bigger price tag, so if you’re on a budget or not sure about cross country skiing, trail running is your best option.

Comparison table

The verdict

If you don’t mind splashing a little cash and you have the time, there are loads of great arguments for cross country skiing over trail running in winter – it’s kinder on your joints, delivers a better workout and can let you get deeper into the backcountry without being hindered by snow. That said, trail running in winter can be a beautiful thing and it’s hard to argue with the convenience of it. However, ultimately we really don’t think you should have to decide between the two, if you love them both. Cross country skiing makes an excellent cross training companion to trail running, and you can use it to give your fitness a real boost during the colder months, especially if you’re eyeing up some big races in the spring or summer. 

• Best trail running shoes: tested for comfort, grip, and protection

The snow is falling, frigid overnight lows mean it’s going to stick around, and you’re ready to get out there and have some frosty adventures on cross country skis. If you’re a first-timer, you could just pull on your best ski pants, hit a snowy trail and work it all out on the go, but doing so can lead to disappointment, frustration, overheating and lots of awkward falling over. A little preparation, on the other hand, can make sure you have a great time cross country skiing, and emerge from winter fitter than ever. Read on to learn all about how to start cross country skiing, from getting fit enough to even give it a go to picking a style and choosing the right gear. 

1. Get in shape 

We know, you’ve probably heard all about the amazing benefits of cross country skiing, the best form of cardiovascular exercise known to humankind, so aren’t you doing it to get in shape, rather than the other way around? Well, a lot like running, it’s definitely going to improve your fitness, but you want to start with some fitness first. If you’re already a hiker or a runner who is able to run for 30 minutes without stopping, great, you’ll be off to a good start. Running and hiking mimic a similar movement to cross country skiing, while trail running in particular is a great way to improve your balance for skiing. You might also consider weight training to strengthen your upper body for all that poling and yoga for glute strength and balance. If this is all new to you, we suggest booking a few sessions with a trainer to help you work on the specific muscle groups and endurance that you’ll need for success in cross country skiing. 

2. Pick a style 

Once you’ve built up some strength and endurance, it’s time to pick a style of cross country skiing. As we explain in our article on cross country skiing techniques, you can essentially break down cross country skiing into two categories:

• Classic cross country skiing, where you slide one ski forward then the other. This can be done on a groomed track or, with the right gear, through untouched snow and hilly terrain in the backcountry.
• Skate skiing, where you move as though wearing ice skates. This requires a groomed track and is harder to learn initially.

If you’re not sure where to start, it can be a good idea to rent some gear and go out with a guide, while of course your choice may be determined by what sort of terrain or nordic centers are available to you. Another good way to make this type of decision is to go with what your friends do, so you can enjoy it together! 

3. Get the gear 

Once you know what type of cross country skiing you’re doing, choosing gear will be fairly easy (it’s also a good reason not to start by buying a pair of skis before you know what you’re doing!). You’ll choose cross country skis based on your chosen technique (skate skis are skinnier while nordic skis meant for touring need metal edges and fish scales or wax), and you’ll choose your boots and bindings based on your skis. The good news is that you can always rent gear to start, and cross country ski gear is not nearly as pricey as alpine gear.

4. Source some snow 

Next up, you need snow obviously. If you’re lucky enough to live near a Nordic ski center, that’s a no brainer for cross country skiing. If there’s plenty of snow in nearby hills and on forest tracks, that’s definitely fair game so long as you have waxed or fish scale skis with edges. Another hot tip is local golf courses – in winter weather, the rolling terrain here provides excellent cross country skiing, and some golf courses even transform into Nordic ski areas come winter. 

5. Dress for the occasion 

You’ve probably heard that cross country skiing is a serious workout, and that means you actually don’t want to just pile on all your thickest, warmest alpine ski gear. You’ll be roasting in minutes and find it difficult to move. If you’re serious about gliding briskly, cross country skiing requires you to wear layers of fairly lightweight and very stretchy clothing that let sweat evaporate and don’t restrict your movements, though for slower touring you can get away with some lightweight ski pants paired with a base layer and a fleece jacket. Read our article on what to wear for cross country skiing for all the details. 

6. Practice

Because cross country skiing doesn’t showcase the same daredevil, high-speed skill as alpine skiing, it can be easy to think that you’ll pick it up straight away and therefore a little discouraging if it’s difficult. Many people do find it much easier to learn than downhill skiing, but it is hard work and your heels being free requires good technique and balance to avoid falling backwards, so plan to get a few learning sessions in before you really take off, and be patient. 

It’s perhaps no great secret that lots of skiers become trail runners in their off season, continuing to enjoy the backcountry at a faster pace until the snow returns. And, if you’re a trail runner looking for a replacement activity while your trails are covered in snow, you might want to try cross country skiing. 

In cross country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, you wear light, narrow skis and use your own locomotion to travel across terrain that may be flat or hilly using movements like striding or skating, often using your poles to help propel you forward. On its own, it’s considered the best workout you can possibly do with tons of great benefits, but it’s especially effective as cross-training or off-season training for trail runners. If your best trail running shoes are looking a little dejected while the snow falls, read on for why trail runners need to try cross country skiing this winter and turn your cold season into an epic adventure.

1. It’s low impact

Though cross country skiing mimics the movements of running in both your lower and upper body, it’s low impact on your joints because you glide, rather than lift your leg with each step. This offers you a great opportunity to strengthen the muscles and movement patterns involved in running while giving your ankles, knees, hips and spine a welcome break from the demands of running.

2. It improves your aerobic endurance

Cross country skiing shares similar movement patterns to running, however it will actually improve your cardiovascular fitness more than running. In fact, according to Norwegian American, when it comes to VO2 max, cross country skiers have the highest cardiovascular fitness of all Olympic athletes. So, a winter spent nordic skiing isn’t just a way to maintain your fitness until the snow melts; it might even make you a stronger runner in the long run.

3. It keeps you outdoors

All exercise done in the right way and an appropriate amount is good for you, but exercising outdoors, known as green exercise, has the most benefit of all. If you live somewhere very snowy, your outdoor running regimen might be seriously hampered come winter and you probably know that a treadmill workout isn’t quite the same for your body or your mind. Cross country skiing keeps you out in the fresh air, surrounded by nature, year-round, which is great for your mental health.

4. It great for improving balance

Because you’re travelling on a slick surface wearing skinny planks on your feet, all cross country skiing requires you to develop better balance, and especially so if you’re skate skiing. Trail runners really rely on a good sense of balance for moving quickly over steep, uneven and rough terrain, so consider skiing your balance training.

5. It helps you recruit your glutes

Many runners are prone to overdeveloped quads and underdeveloped glutes, which can lead to chronic pain, weakness and underperformance, according to the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. However, you won’t get very far down a snowy track on cross country skis if you don’t recruit your glutes. In addition to working your legs, arms, chest, back and abs, cross country skiing is a serious glute burner, so when you return to running, you might find yourself moving with better mechanics and less pain.

6. It builds mental fortitude

Not to say that trail running isn’t tough, but cross country skiing is really, really tough if you want to put in some distance. You’ve got cold weather and slippery conditions to contend with while your heart, lungs and legs will be getting a serious run through the ringer. Cross country skiing can be great brain training to help you meet the demands of difficult trail running with a calm and focused mind.

In conclusion, a winter spent on cross country skis can make you a stronger runner come the spring, and it’s not a particularly expensive sport to get into, compared to downhill skiing. However, please be aware that, even though you’ll be very fit after a few months of skiing, you’ll need to ease back into running to give your ankles, knees, hips and spine time to re-adapt to the impact. In the meantime, glide on!

Once you’ve truly accepted the end of summer, there’s a slight quiver of excitement for the first snowfall and its accompanying winter sports. If you live in a  place with abundant snowfall, cross country skiing is a truly terrific way to stay active during the colder months, and can easily replace (or surpass) dryland adventures like hiking and trail running in terms of athleticism. With so much choice at the click of a mouse, it can be surprisingly easy to make the wrong choice and end up with skis you can't actually use (and may be difficult to ship back) and there’s nothing like an untouched pair of skis in your basement to make you feel regretful every time you do downstairs to grab something from the deep freeze. If you’re planning on trading your trail running shoes for something you can glide on this winter, check out our guide to how to choose cross country skis to make sure you get the best skis for your location, planned usage and experience level.

What type of cross country skiing are you doing?

The first, and most important, question you need to answer is what type of cross country skiing technique you’ll be doing. If you don’t yet know, start chatting with local skiers and ski guides to find out what’s possible in your area. Depending on how much snow your area receives and what type of terrain is available, some types of cross country skiing might not be realistic, so it’s best to do a little research before you make a purchase. 

Further, if you’re lucky enough to live somewhere where you have your choice of groomed trails, backcountry escapades and skating, it’s a good idea to hire equipment and test out different techniques before you buy to figure out which one you want to do. Cross country ski rentals are typically much cheaper than alpine skis, so don't be daunted by the economics of this.

Finally, the terminology around cross country skiing has evolved over the years and varies a bit from country to country, so it’s actually a good idea to pick up the phone or even (gasp!) go to a ski shop to chat with an expert about what kind of skiing you plan to do, so you don’t end up with inadequate skis for your needs.

Now that’s out of the way, you can divide cross country skis up into three broad categories that vary in terms of factors like width, grip and camber.

Classic cross country skis

If you’re planning on skiing on tracks at Nordic ski centers or cruising around in the woods without much incline and want to use the classic technique that looks a lot like walking or running in skis, you’ll want to arm yourself with a pair of classic cross country skis. These are long, skinny and lightweight with curved tips and have a double camber and a grip zone underneath your ski boot to help you glide and stride. 

These skis can further be broken down into those that are often referred to as race skis, which are generally stiffer and require you to be a bit more experienced, and great if you just want to move fast, or classic skis, which will have a bit more flex and are better if you just want to cruise around.

Finally, classic cross country skis usually come in two options:

• Waxable skis, which require you to apply wax to the grip zone and allow you to go faster and glide more smoothly on the tracks.
• Waxless skis, which have a fishscale or mohair section under the boot, and remove the need for waxing or skins. These are a bit more convenient for skiing both on and off trail.

Backcountry touring skis

If you are looking to get out into the wild and might be looking at some hills on your adventures, you’ll need a slightly shorter and fatter ski and will want to look into a pair of backcountry touring skis. (Quick note: these are different from an AT setup, which entail placing skins on alpine skis for uphill touring and downhill skiing. Backcountry touring cross country skis will be a bit heavier than classic skis and provide a bit more flex for turning and flotation in deeper snow. Most importantly, these skis have metal edges which allow you to climb uphill and give you better ability to make turns on the way down. These skis will also work on Nordic tracks, however, and also come in both waxable and waxless versions. 

Skate skis

If you’re planning on skate skiing on groomed tracks, you’ll need a pair of skate skis. It’s important to know that skate skis have smooth undersides to help you go fast, so they’re not appropriate for classic usage. Generally speaking, skate skis have a single camber, and are thinner and a bit shorter than classic skis. They're also more rigid, but if you’re a beginner, look for a pair with a bit more flex.

What size cross country skis do you need?

Once you know what type of cross country skis you need, you need to make sure to get them in the right size. Cross country skis are measured in centimeters, and you'll usually be able to pick to within five or 10 centimeters of your desired length, depending on the brand. As with all types of skiing, longer cross country skis are generally better suited for more experienced skiers, while shorter skis are ideal for beginners, however you must also take your body weight into account here. Fortunately, we’ve got an easy formula to figuring out what size cross country skis you need.

While you’re choosing your skis, you’ll want to pick out the right bindings, but most outlets will sell these as a package and pre-mount the bindings for you, which is the easiest option. Finally, you’ll also want to get the right type of cross country ski boot to suit the bindings. 

Though you can certainly pay upwards of $500 for a cross country ski setup, you can get a good setup for under $300, and it will be cheaper if you’re willing to wait until off-season.

• Best hiking gloves: keep your hands, warm, dry, and protected

British outdoor clothing brand Montane has announced its title sponsorship of a gruelling new winter ultra-race to take place in Lapland in March 2022. The Montane Lapland Arctic Ultra will see runners, bikers and skiers racing for hundreds of kilometres across the frozen landscape of Sweden’s northernmost county.

Athletes can choose from two separate race courses – one 185km trail and the other 315km – or choose to combine the two for a 500km journey. The race is open to individuals and teams who will tackle frozen rivers and lakes and swamps and forests on foot, cross country skis or on mountain bikes. Regardless of which course and race method they pick, what’s certain is that participants can expect serious cold and wind chill, with March temperatures in this beautiful Swedish wilderness hovering around -3°C during the day and dropping to around -25°C at night.

“This area of Sweden is beautiful, but isn’t very well known yet," explains race organizer Robert Pollhammer, adding "With the MLAU we hope we can help change that and inspire more people to experience this great region. The MLAU will be one of the longest, if not the longest, non-stop winter ultra in Europe and it will be tough.”

The race format is non-stop, through night and day, allowing participants to decide themselves when and where to have a break. Participants will cross the Arctic circle up to four times through the duration of the race. 

“Excited doesn't even come close to how I feel about competing in the Montane Lapland Arctic Ultra. I am looking forward to doing it for so many reasons - to explore somewhere new with such epic landscapes, but also to get back into my love of endurance following a recent major knee injury,” says Montane ambassador Katy Parrott, who will be competing in the event.

If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere with lots of snow, you have options when it comes to picking a winter sport and you might be weighing up the merits of cross country skiing vs downhill skiing. Even though these two sports require moving on snow with skinny planks on your feet, they actually couldn’t be more different so we’re here to detail the advantages of each one to help you decide.

First, let’s define the two. Downhill skiing, or alpine skiing, is the general term used for recreational skiing at resorts where you ride a chairlift to the top of a hill or mountain, ski down, rinse, lather, repeat. In cross country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, you use your own locomotion to travel across terrain that may be flat or slightly hilly using movements like striding or skating. Cross country skiing dates back for millennia and nowadays it can be a recreational activity that takes place in the back country or at a Nordic ski resort, or it can be used as a form of transportation.

Though the debate isn’t exactly heated, some purists believe that cross country skiing is the only “real” skiing, while some alpine skiers scoff at the snail-like pace of cross country skiing. But is one sport really superior to the other? Or does it just come down to what you’re hoping to get out of it? We walk you through cross country skiing vs downhill skiing here to help you get the full picture. 

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: speed 

Thanks to gravity, you’ll go a lot faster downhill skiing than cross country skiing. Naturally, your speed in either sport depends a bit on your skill level and technique, as well as the terrain, but in downhill skiing, your average speed is likely to be between 20 and 40mph according to NPR while in cross country skiing, you’ll probably move at a more serene pace between seven and ten miles an hour. 

Now, obviously faster isn’t necessarily better, but if your idea of a good time is hurtling through the air at high velocity then you’ll probably find cross country skiing a bit boring, and if you tend to prefer a merry-go-ride over a rollercoaster at the fair, you may find downhill skiing nauseating.

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: physical challenge 

If you’re looking for a good workout when you’re skiing, look no further than cross country skiing, which has been coined the best cardiovascular exercise known to man in the book Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning (by G Gregory Haff and N Travis Triplett) ahead of activities like long distance running, snowshoeing, cycling and rowing. Without gravity to pull you downhill, you’ll have to put in some serious effort to move yourself along the trail. 

Meanwhile, downhill skiing definitely strengthens your legs and is better than sitting on the couch eating chips in terms of aerobic exercise, but even on a powder day it’s nowhere near as demanding as cross country skiing on your legs or lungs. In fact, once you get experienced, you can cruise green runs all day long and not really feel it. If you prefer to get your exercise in other ways like hiking and trail running and are looking for something fun to do, however, this won’t be a problem for you. 

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: terrain 

In addition to the obvious distinction of slopes versus trails, when you’re downhill skiing, you’re limited to the terrain served by the ski lifts. Now, this terrain is often in the form of breathtaking peaks and valleys and major resorts like Vail can serve over 5,000 acres so you’re not likely to feel bored on day one, and of course you can cover most of it in a day thanks to high speed chairlifts so you’ll see a lot. 

Because you’re moving slow on cross country skis, you’ll arguably see less, but you’re also not reliant on ski resorts and if you have backcountry skis, you can be fairly adventurous in your exploration. That said, with classic cross country skis, steeper slopes will be mostly off limits, unless you like to do a lot of side stepping.

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: snow availability 

All skiing relies on snow but the big ski resorts supplement nature’s delivery by making their own, so even on a poor snow year, you’ll be able to hit the slopes and they’ll be at least okay. 

Cross country skiing tends to take place at lower elevations where there may not be snow, even when the peaks are white. Now in places like Vermont, Colorado and Norway, you can always find snow worth skiing in winter so this won’t be a worry, but unless you live in an area where snow is guaranteed, you may not be able to find skiable terrain for cross country skiing every day of the season.

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: expense 

We’re not here to tell you that any type of skiing is an affordable sport, especially compared to hiking and trail running. Just to get started you need skis, boots, bindings and poles, plus special clothing like ski jackets, ski gloves and goggles and all of that comes at a cost, even if you shop second hand. But with cross country skiing, the gear is definitely cheaper and once you’re kitted out (our guides to the best ski jackets for men and ski jackets for women include options for all budgets) you don’t have to pay to access Nordic ski centers if you don’t want to. Many Nordic areas are free or come at a small cost, and you can head out into the backcountry to ski. 

Resort skiing, on the other hand, requires you to buy a lift pass for every day or season that you want to ski, and these can come to the tune of hundreds of dollars a day at premium resorts. Those lifts don’t run themselves so downhill skiing definitely comes with the heftier price tag.

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: sociability 

If you’re looking for a sport to enjoy with friends and family, both options are great. That said, cross country skiing really lends itself to ongoing conversation, as you and your comrades can move along the trail together at the same speed and chat, as long as you're not too out of breath to talk. 

With downhill skiing, most of your social time occurs on the chairlift between runs, and the skiing itself is more of a non-verbal activity. You might enjoy the gaps in conversation and the time to yourself, however, so this isn’t necessarily a disadvantage. 

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: risk 

It should go without saying that skiing is an inherently dangerous sport. Injuries common to both types of skiing are knee ligament tears, shoulder dislocations and wrist and ankle sprains, while downhill skiing also increases your risk of concussions according to Sports Health. As you can surmise, it’s the velocity of downhill skiing that increases its risk. A review by Monash University in Australia estimated that cross country skiers average 0.49 injuries per thousand skier days while downhill skiers average about seven times as many injuries. If you’re recovering from an injury and thinking about crossing the picket line from downhill skiing to cross country skiing, you won’t be immune to injury, but your chances of injury are considerably lower. 

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: sustainability 

One last area that we think is important to consider when weighing the two sports side by side is their impact on the environment. For both sports, the purchase of all that gear puts strain on the planet and you’ll want to shop sustainably and take good care of yours to make sure it lasts. But ski resorts do impose a unique environmental burden, with chairlifts that typically run on electricity, high traffic, heated streets and roofs to melt snow, never mind the environmental impact of building the infrastructure required to ship thousands of people to the resort each day. 

In cross country skiing, your carbon footprint is as low as the gas it takes to get out there, and you may even be able to do it right out your front door, so it definitely wins this round. 

Cross country skiing vs downhill skiing: the verdict 

It’s clear that cross country skiing and downhill skiing are markedly different, and for the most part, which one wins really depends on what you’re looking for. So perhaps the better question is, do you have to choose? Our answer is absolutely not. 

Both types of skiing are a fabulous way to stay active throughout the colder months. Lots of people enjoy both of these sports and in fact, having a cross country ski set up in addition to alpine skis is a great option for the days when the resort is really busy, while having a ski pass is a life saver when there isn’t much snow in low lying areas. But we will say that if you’re new to skiing, don’t bite off more than you can chew – pick one for your first season and focus on getting comfortable with it, then add the other type the following year.

Still undecided? If you’re seeking something that has some of the merits of both types of skiing, head on over to our articles on uphill skiing and telemark skiing where you can work up a sweat in the backcountry without the lift lines. 

Getting kitted out for cross country skiing sometimes seems like it’s more work than the skiing itself – and cross country skiing is a lot of work. After all, you have to figure out what length of cross country skis you need, choose the right pair of bindings and then make sure your boots are compatible with them. Once you’ve done all that, you need to make sure that you have chosen the best pair of cross country ski poles to complete your kit.

Whereas in alpine skiing, you can just grab any old pair of ski poles that’s been gathering dust in your garage, adjust them to the right length and hit the slopes, choosing cross country ski poles require a bit more precision. In cross country skiing, you use your poles to help propel you forward, so they’re critical to your experience. It’s vital that you choose the right length and weight for starters, then there are other factors to consider like how efficiently you can swing the poles forward and what type of grip and straps they have.

In this article, we break down how to size cross country ski poles and how to choose the best type for your purposes.

How to size cross country ski poles 

Cross country ski poles usually come in set sizes, measured in centimeters, though there are some adjustable cross country ski poles out there. Set sized cross country ski poles typically come in increments of five centimetres, so for perspective, at worst, a pair of cross country ski poles will only be 2.5 centimetres off your ideal length. 

Cross country ski poles should be significantly longer than alpine ski poles and the type of cross country skiing you’re doing determines the length you want: 

• Classic: shoulder height, or your height in centimeters x 0.83 
• Skate: nose height, or your height in centimeters x 0.89 
• Touring: chest height, or your height in centimeters x 0.78 

If you’re in between sizes, size up rather than down.

The argument for adjustable cross country ski poles is definitely there if you plan to use one set of poles for different types of cross country skiing. Otherwise, while they can obviously be adapted to the exact length that you need, there’s always the danger that if you don’t tighten them properly – or they’re faulty – then they’ll retract as you plant them, which is annoying. 

Cross country ski poles: shaft materials 

Cross country ski pole shafts are usually made using aluminium, carbon, or composite material using carbon and other materials.

Aluminium poles will be the cheapest and usually the simplest design with loop straps and the heaviest weight. Poles made using composite materials will range in weight according to how much carbon is used and they generally have more features, like better grips and harness straps. These will be priced more in the mid-range. Carbon poles are the lightest, stiffest and preferred by competitive and advanced skiers. These are the most expensive and also slightly more fragile.

If you’re just getting started with cross country skiing or doing it more casually, you will be more than happy with either aluminium or composite poles while advanced or competitive skiers will opt for a lighter pole.

Cross country ski poles: straps 

Alpine ski poles have simple loop straps that go around your list and you can find cross country ski poles with these straps too, usually aluminium poles. However, if you’re looking at composite poles, you might consider ones with harness straps which hold the pole closer to your hand ensuring more comfort and control. Some poles come with quick-release harness straps which detach from the pole and are a nice convenience that allows you to stop and drink water or fiddle with gear without removing your gloves, which you might do more of if you’re skiing in the backcountry. 

Cross country ski poles: swing 

The way that you use cross country ski poles means that you have to be able to easily swing them forward in front of you after you’ve pushed them back to move yourself forward. You would think that as long as they’re the right length, you’re good to go, but small details can affect swing, sometimes referred to as pendulum. 

Some poles are designed with more weight at the top, which improves the swing, but that doesn’t mean you just want to look for heavier poles. In fact, you can basically count on lightweight, more expensive poles having the best swing. When you’re shopping around, simply look for references to the swing or pendulum of the pole.

Cross country ski poles: grip 

The grip on cross country ski poles is typically made using either rubber or cork. Cork is lighter while rubber is more durable and offers a bit more grip. This choice mostly comes down to personal preference. 

Cross country ski poles: basket 

Finally, there’s the basket, which is the little disc towards the bottom of your ski pole that prevents the tip from just sinking into the snow and helps keep you upright. If you’re classic cross country skiing on hard packed or groomed snow like a track, you can go with a small basket, but if you plan to head out into ungroomed snow, make sure you get a larger basket. 

British army captain Preet Chandi has become the first woman of color to ski solo to the South Pole.

Chandi, 32, from Derby in England completed her remarkable mission on January 3 after 40 days of trekking through harsh, snowy conditions and -45C temperatures on cross country skis while pulling a 200lb sled carrying all of her supplies. She is the first person to reach the South Pole on foot in two years.

“I made it to the South Pole where it's snowing. Feeling so many emotions right now. I knew nothing about the polar world three years ago and it feels so surreal to finally be here. It was tough getting here and I want to thank everybody for their support,” writes Chandi of her journey, which she completed alone while her family and friends back home were celebrating the festive period.

Chandi, who goes by the nickname “Polar Preet”, documented her extraordinary feat on her Instagram account, where she revealed that in addition to the harsh conditions she was also suffering from a cough, sickness and diarrhea. Still, the officer and ultra runner completed the 700 mile trek some 5-8 days ahead of schedule.

As Advnture previously reported, the physiotherapist hopes her mission inspire others to challenge their own boundaries and beliefs about cultural norms in the outdoors.

“This expedition was always about so much more than me. I want to encourage people to push their boundaries and to believe in themselves, and I want you to be able to do it without being labelled a rebel,” she says, adding, “You are capable of anything you want. No matter where you are from or where your start line is, everybody starts somewhere. I don't want to just break the glass ceiling, I want to smash it into a million pieces.”

So far, it looks as though her plan is working, with congratulations flooding in from officials with the British Army and Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Chandi is now the third fastest woman to trek across the South Pole with Sweden’s Johanna Davidsson maintaining her record of 38 days.

Chandi has said she plans to use half of the money raised through the Go Fund Me appeal for her polar trip to set up an "adventure grant" for women of any age or background. 

Athletic footwear sometimes follows different rules to everyday shoes and boots. For example, you want your rock climbing shoes to be very snug, whereas when sizing hiking boots, you want about one thumb’s width of space between the tip of your toes and the front of the hiking boot. So how should cross country ski boots fit? We answer this common question to help make sure you have the best kit for snow season. 

How should cross country ski boots fit? 

Basically, the fit of your cross country ski boots is going to be pretty similar to your regular athletic footwear fit. Cross country boots are made in European sizes, so you’ll need to figure out what European size you wear your hiking boots or trail running shoes in and start there. So if you wear a European size 40 shoe, start by trying on a size 40 ski boot.  

How do you know if cross country ski boots fit? 

Of course, different brands and styles do size slightly differently, so you want to try your boots on before you buy them. Before you try the boots on, put on the thickest pair of ski socks that you’ll be wearing with the boots. When you put them on, slide your heel all the way back before lacing them up. Once laced up, stand up and the boot should be snug, but still comfortable around the widest part of your foot.

You should be able to wiggle your toes which means you’ll be able to access and activate your foot muscles for skiing. For both cross country skiing and skate skiing, it’s ideal if your toes just brush the end of the boot, whereas for other types of skiing, it’s okay if there’s a little more room. 

Is it better for cross country ski boots to be tight or loose? 

While you may be able to get away with sizing down a half size with cross country ski boots, you definitely don’t want them to be loose. If your foot moves around in the boot, it will rub your foot and cause blisters.

It does take a while to break cross country ski boots in, and of course once you’ve been out skiing in them you won’t be able to return them, so it’s a good idea to wear them around the house a few times and make sure they’re not too tight and don’t rub before you get them out on the snow.

How long does it take to learn to ski? If you’re thinking of taking up skiing this winter, this question might be at the forefront of your mind. If you’re getting into hiking, after all, you can expect to be walking uphill on day one. But no matter what type of skiing you’re getting into, it’s going to involve a lot of gear, a certain amount of skill and possibly even operating machinery in the case of alpine skiing, so you might rightly be wondering how long all of this is going to take you to pick it up?

We’re here to explain the different skills you’re going to have to master before you can start getting out on the snow comfortably and safely, and help you estimate how much time you need to get from curious to confident on skis.

How long does it take to learn to ski?

The answer, of course, is it depends. There are a few variables that you can count on to influence how long it will take you to learn to ski:

• Type of skiing
• Age
• Fitness level
• Proprioception

In addition to these four factors, there’s the harder to define factor or how gung ho you are. If you’re naturally pretty adventurous, you might find you pick up skiing a little faster than if you’re more timid. While this is a pretty subjective field and harder to examine, we can take a closer look at the other four to help you gauge how much time you might need.

Type of skiing

Let’s start by saying that no matter what type of skiing you’re planning to do, you’re going to have to learn how to use your equipment. All skiing requires skis, bindings, boots and poles at a minimum and you’ll need to know how to use them, so the first hour or two of your first day will be spent on that.

If you’re planning on alpine skiing, you’ll also need to learn how to safely load, ride and unload from a chairlift as well as some basic downhill etiquette and things like what the different trail symbols mean. Again, plan on that taking up another hour or two of your first day on the hill. Then you’ll start learning basic techniques, which means staying upright, learning how to stop on skis and how to start turning. By the end of day one, you will probably be slowly skiing down a beginner’s slope. 

After that, how long it takes you to get comfortable depends on how often you’re able to ski. If you’re on a week-long ski trip and skiing every day, you’ll probably want a couple of days of lessons and be comfortable on beginner level terrain without an instructor by midweek. If you’re skiing regularly all season, you can plan to be comfortable on intermediate terrain by the end of the ski season.

If you’re planning on telemark skiing and you already know how to alpine ski, plan on feeling comfortable with the basics after a few days. If you’ve never skied and are planning on getting straight tinto telemarking, you will have a steeper learning curve ahead of you, but it’s not impossible.

Planning on cross country skiing? Great, there’s no chairlift involved so you can start working on your technique straight away. That said, cross country skiing technique is likely to take a few days to pick up. 

First, you need to decide you’re going to do classic cross country or skate skiing. Classic is not unlike walking or running while wearing skis, and generally going to be easier to learn than skate skiing which requires more finesse, balance and fitness. Either way, while you’re not learning to control your speed on steep slopes or turn as much as in alpine skiing, both techniques will likely take several days or lessons to start to feel comfortable with the basics. 

Once you’re confident in your basic technique, it won’t take long for you to be able to start to refine your stride and pick up the pace, so you’ll get to intermediate level faster than in alpine or telemark skiing.

Age

Your age does seem to have quite a strong influence on how long it takes you to learn to ski. Little kids have a lower center of gravity and often less fear, so even toddler aged children can pick up skiing quickly and those who do start young are often better at skiing as adults. Adults can also learn to ski quickly, but it is a little harder to balance the taller you get, and we often have more fear around falling so it’s often the case that the older you are in learning to ski, the longer it takes.

That said, many older adults take up cross country skiing later in life and find that it doesn’t take them long to learn.

Fitness level

Skiing, and especially cross country skiing, requires a certain level of fitness. You need a lot of leg strength, whether that’s using your glutes to power you forward in cross country skiing, or your quads to help control your speed in alpine skiing. You tend to use muscles in ways that you don’t in any other activity, so it’s bound to be tiring at first and it helps if you’re already in good shape. Cross country skiing and skate skiing are also extremely aerobic, so you'll want to be in good cardiovascular shape for those.

If you’re not already in good shape, you can still learn to ski but it might take you longer as you’re not likely going to be able to stay out for as long. It’s a good idea to start doing regular exercise six weeks before you want to start skiing to help you improve your strength and stamina and reduce your risk of injury.

Proprioception

Standing on two narrow planks on a slippery surface requires you to have decent balance, and being able to move, turn and stop effortlessly involves some coordination. We can collectively term these skills as proprioception, which describes your ability to sense movement, action and the location of your body in space. Some of us have a more developed sense of proprioception than others, and if you tend to have a harder time balancing or controlling your movements, it might take you a bit longer to learn to ski. However, there are exercises to improve proprioception you can do to help with this.

Is it difficult to learn to ski?

Though skiing is certainly more difficult to learn than activities like hiking and running, as you’ve no doubt figured out, how difficult it is depends a bit on the type of skiing you’re doing, and a bit on you. Some people take to it like a duck to water and others need a bit more patience. It’s always helpful to start with lessons from a professional and if you fall into the latter category, definitely consider getting more lessons. 

Not only do you have to learn how to use your gear, but you want to make sure that you choose the right gear to begin with, so knowing things like how to choose the right ski length and which type of cross country bindings you need will help speed up the learning process.

Finally, of course there’s the added discomfort of being outside in the cold which presents a whole new challenge for many of usl Make sure you’re well kitted out with the best ski gloves, base layer and hardshell jacket so that you don’t make the process of learning to ski even more difficult than it needs to be.

Getting ready for cross country skiing this winter? There are four types of cross country ski boots you need to know about to make sure you buy the right pair for the type of cross country skiing technique you want to do.

If you’re in the market for a cross country ski set up, you need to know what type of cross country skiing you’ll be doing: classic technique on a groomed track, Nordic backcountry, skate skiing or a combination? 

The four different types of cross country ski boots correspond to different styles of cross country skiing and all fit and perform differently to support the movements you’ll be doing and according to the type of snow you’ll be on, so you can enjoy all of the amazing benefits of cross country skiing without the discomfort of the wrong pair of boots. 

Classic cross country ski boots 

In classic cross country skiing, you slide one ski forward and then the other, so classic cross country ski boots are a bit softer and provide the flexibility you need to lift your heel as you slide your foot forward and allows the other foot remaining behind you to flex too. These boots are therefore generally a bit wider and more comfortable than some other types of ski boot. These boots are best if you plan to do classic skiing on a groomed track. 

Nordic backcountry ski boots 

There’s another type of classic cross country skiing and that’s backcountry skiing, where you get off the groomed tracks and into deeper, untouched snow. Because you’ll be sinking deeper into the snow, you’ll want more protection for your feet, both from the cold and the wet. Nordic backcountry ski boots therefore are a bit like a winter hiking boot – they have more insulation and may have a gaiter to keep the snow out of your boot, and they are also a bit tougher to withstand the elements. However, despite their durability they are still quite comfortable so if you plan to get off the track, you’ll want to invest in a pair meant for backcountry. 

Skate skiing boots 

Skate skiing is by far the most dynamic cross country skiing technique and in order to really get the leverage to push off with each foot, you want a firm, lightweight boot. Skate skiing boots therefore are rigid and allow for less movement of your foot and ankle than classic boots. Remember, you’ll want this to skate so don't opt for comfort over performance with the wrong type of boot. If you’re just starting out, skate skiing boots with plastic in the cuffs are cheaper, and if you’re looking to upgrade or spend more, boots with carbon cuffs are lighter, higher performing and more durable. 

Combi Nordic ski boots 

Lots of people don’t want to get boxed in to just one type of cross country skiing, and for you there’s the Combi boot. These boots work for both classic and skate skiing with enough give to allow your foot to flex and cuff support for skating. These are a great choice if you intend to be mixing things up a lot, but naturally a dedicated boot is best if you really want to work on your technique in one particular style. 

Next steps 

Once you've decided what style of cross country skiing you need boots for, you should read our article on the different types of cross country ski bindings. Not all cross country ski boots work with all types of bindings, so you’ll want to double check yours are compatible. 

Next up, read our articles on what to wear for cross country skiing and how to choose the right length of cross country skis to make sure you’re armed with all the information you need to make good choices when gearing up for the outdoors. 

So you’re looking for a winter sport that keeps you outdoors in colder months but you also have a dog that needs regular exercise? Ice skating, resort skiing and ice climbing are probably off the list, but don’t worry, you need look no further than skijoring. What is skijoring, you ask? In this article, we take a look at this unusual winter sport that combines snowy recreation with exercising your canine companion to keep you both in shape through the colder months. 

What is skijoring? 

Skijoring is a type of cross country skiing where you are pulled by a dog (or dogs), a horse or sometimes even a vehicle. 

Like most traditional types of skiing, skijoring is believed to have started out thousands of years ago as a mode of transportation. There is evidence that people during the Yuan and Ming dynasties of China used dogs to pull them on skis, while the Sami people who are indigenous to Nordic countries are known to harness reindeer to pull them across snow-covered landscapes. 

Reindeer skijoring has been an official sport of the Nordic games since 1901. The Swiss and French picked it up around 1912 and started using horses, and equine skijoring took off, making its way to North America where it was used by the 10th Mountain Division to return home after the war, and also as a form of recreation in snow states. 

Equine skijoring, where a skier is pulled behind a horse being ridden by a second person, has only appeared once in the Winter Olympics so far, all the way back in St Moritz in 1928. Today, equine Skijoring remains a niche but thriving sport in states like Colorado, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Meanwhile, skijoring with dogs has kept a bit of a lower profile, but there are some dog skijoring races held in North America, Scandinavia and Russia and it is picking up as a form of recreation. In fact, it’s not completely unusual to see folks out doing it in places where you might go snowshoeing or cross country skiing these days. 

What does the word skijoring mean? 

The word “skijoring” is derived from a Norwegian word meaning “ski driving” and denotes the action of steering your animal instead of relying solely on your own locomotion, the way you would with typical cross country skiing techniques. When anglicized, the "j" is pronounced but in Norwegian, it is pronounced like a "y."

That said, when skijoring with your dog, you’re not actually pulling on reins to steer. Instead, you’ll use voice commands and rely on your dog’s instinct to pull. And while your dog is certainly pulling hard, you’re not relaxing in the backseat; instead, you’re using your legs and poles to ski in your typical nordic skiing technique and your dog is supporting your effort so you can go faster. 

What skijoring equipment do you need to get started? 

Well, for starters, you’ll need one to three medium to large sized dogs. There are lots of different breeds of dogs used in skijoring, from huskies, sled dogs and mastiffs to pointers, shepherds and golden retrievers. In addition to being of medium to large size, your dog shouldn’t be a puppy or too old, should be in good physical shape and respond to voice commands well.

To hook up with your dog, you’ll need to wear a specialized harness around your waist that has a quick release system in case your dog goes off piste, and a proper pulling harness for each of your dogs. 

Then, you’ll need a rope to connect your harness to your dog’s. The rope should be 10-12ft long and have a little bit of stretch in it, to help with the initial jolt when your dog takes off and to take up any slack.

Obviously, you’ll need a pair of cross country skis – both classic and skate skis work – as well as cross country ski boots, bindings and poles. And you’ll want to dress for cross country skiing with clothing like a good base layer for wicking away sweat and protecting you from the cold.

Finally, remember to bring water for both you and your dog. Cross country skiing is thirsty work and it's even harder for your dog. You’ll want to clip your bottle to your belt and bring a collapsible bowl.

Is skijoring good for dogs? 

As long as your dog isn’t too small, too young or old and is active and healthy, skijoring can be great exercise for your dog. Remember that you’re not relying entirely on your dog’s effort and this is a joint effort. Naturally you don’t want to do it in extreme cold conditions, and you’ll need to have a practice run to see if your dog is up to the task, but if they respond well, consider this an excellent winter sport with incredible benefits for both you and your furry friend. 

When gearing up for cross country skiing, the first question you should be asking yourself is what size cross country skis do I need? Different types of skiing require different calculations when it comes to choosing the right ski length. Ensuring your cross country skis are the right length means you can control your skis, turn with ease and stop with minimal effort. This means you’ll have a better time, be able to focus on refining your technique and reduce the risk of injury.  

 What size cross country skis do I need? 

As we’ve discussed previously, cross country skiing offers phenomenal benefits but in order to really reap them, you want the right skis that help you with your technique and efficiency. It’s good to lead with the fact that there is no standardized system for choosing the right ski length, however, there are some helpful guidelines. 

For some types of skiing, the calculation depends on several variables, such as snow, terrain, height and ability level. Fortunately, when it comes to cross country skiing, it’s quite easy to calculate the right length for you since we can easily determine exactly what type of cross country skiing you’ll be doing beforehand.  

What type of cross country skiing will you be doing? 

To start, you’ll need to know whether you’ll be doing classic cross country skiing on a groomed track, classic cross country skiing in the backcountry or skate skiing. Next, figure out your height in centimeters and use the following formula: 

* For skate skiing skis, more experienced skiers will go a bit longer and beginners will go a bit shorter 

Factor in your body weight 

There is one other variable that you should take into account when choosing cross country skis, and that is your weight. Basically, if you are relatively heavy for your height, you’ll want to add another five centimeters to the formula above to account for the extra weight, and if you’re relatively light for your height, subtract five centimeters.

Cross country skis come in standard lengths, so if there isn’t a ski that exactly matches your requirements, round up or down to pick the one closest.

Choosing cross country ski boots and bindings 

Once you’ve chosen a pair of cross country skis, you’ll need to check if they come pre-mounted with bindings or if you need to buy and mount your own. If they come with bindings, make sure you buy a pair of cross country ski boots that are compatible with the bindings.

If you need to buy and mount your own bindings, check the compatibility of the ski then take a look at our guide to the different types of cross country ski bindings. Once you’ve selected your bindings, all you need to do is buy a pair of cross country ski boots that are compatible with your bindings and best for the type of cross country skiing you plan to do. 

Now that you’ve got your skis, bindings and boots, all that’s left is to dress appropriately for cross country skiing – meaning for high intensity in cold weather – and get out there. 

There are few more majestic ways to explore a snowy wilderness than gliding around on a pair of cross country skis. If you're looking to get into this incredible pursuit, you'll need to be aware of the types of cross country ski bindings, as well as which ones go with which boots and which ones are best the for kind of cross country skiing you plan to do.

We're here with our expert guide to help you do just that, revealing the three types of cross country ski binding, what to consider when choosing them and the differences between each type.

Types of cross country ski bindings

There are three main families of cross country ski bindings. 

Three pin bindings are the oldest type, while SNS (Salomon Nordic System) were the most popular starting around 2007 until NNN (New Nordic Norm) bindings surpassed them. Making matters slightly more complicated, there are several subtypes of bindings that are essentially advancements on the NNN binding. The most important thing to know is that not all cross country ski bindings are compatible with all boots.

Meet the expert

Today's best deals

What are cross country ski bindings?

Bindings are what attach your boots to your skis – they should affix your foot firmly to the ski to help you maneuver well and reap the benefits of cross country skiing, but also release your foot in the event of a fall to minimize the risk of injury.

Unlike in other types of skiing, different cross country ski boots have different soles and won’t work with all types of binding. This means that whether you’re buying a whole new cross country ski kit or just upgrading your bindings, you’ll want to be sure that your bindings work with your boots and avoid the extra expense and hassle of having to buy another pair or make an exchange.

What to consider when choosing cross country ski bindings

• Bindings usually cost between $35 and $80
• Wider bindings are more stable, while narrower ones are designed for performance
• Some cross country skis come with integrated binding plates

Cross country ski bindings are not a huge expense, compared to other types of skiing. A pair might set you back $35 - $80. The more expensive bindings will be lighter and probably allow you to easily click in, like an alpine binding. Others require you to manually secure and release your bindings using a lever.

Another factor to consider is your experience and skill. Bindings built for leisure will be wider and more stable, so better if you’re a beginner or casual cross country skier, while narrower bindings are made for performance and less stable, used by those with good technique and balance.

Finally, some cross country skis come with binding plates already on them, which allow you to mount your bindings without drilling. These plates will only work with certain types of binding. 

Make sure to check out our guide to the best ski gloves too, so you can be sure you’re building your collection of kit with only the greatest gear.

Salomon Nordic System (SNS) bindings

SNS bindings clip in at the toe and are only compatible with SNS boots. They have a single ridge, unlike NNN bindings which have two ridges. This is the oldest cross country ski binding system that is still in production, and is good for beginners, offering a bit more stability. SNS bindings are used with both classic and skating boots.

New Nordic Norm (NNN) bindings

NNN bindings are more popular than SNS bindings these days, though both are used by pros and beginners alike. These attach to your boot via a metal rod at the toe and have two ridges making them compatible only with NNN boots. A rubber front helps you generate power when lifting your foot to glide forward. 

New Nordic Norm Backcountry (NNN BC) bindings

NNN BC bindings are a great choice if you’re planning on skiing in the backcountry, where the snow will be deeper and less uniform, as opposed to on a groomed track. These bindings are more durable and wider and therefore offer more support and stability. These may be compatible with your NNN boots.

Nordic Integrated System (NIS) bindings

NIS bindings are basically an upgraded version of the NNN bindings, with the main appeal being that you can click them right onto your skis and don’t need to drill screws in to attach them. Based on NNN technology, they’re compatible with NNN boots and another benefit is that they’re easy to adjust when you’re out skiing.

Prolink bindings

Yet another upgrade on the NNN that are compatible with the same boots, Prolink are Salomon’s NNN bindings and are narrower and lighter and may offer a better snow feel, and therefore are popular among more experienced skiers. These attach to your skis via pre-drilled holes.

Turnamic Bindings

Turnamic bindings were developed by Fischer and Rossignol in 2016 and are on all of their new cross country skis. The main advantages of these bindings is that you can attach them to your binding plates on your skis without any tools, and you can move the bindings forward and backward on your ski to match your skiing style or terrain. These are compatible with NNN boots.

Three Pin bindings

Less common nowadays, Three Pin bindings are more traditional and work with stiffer boots used for backcountry skiing rather than racing or track skiing. In the past, these bindings allowed a lot of snow to accumulate under your heel, however the newer models have fixed this issue and a major plus of these bindings is that they tend to be cheaper, and you will often find them second hand. They are a little more difficult to get in and out of.

Which type of binding do I need?

• The type of ski boot you've got will determine which bindings you need
• An NNN boot will have two thin shallow grooves running along it
• An SNS boot will have two bars
• A Three Pin binding compatible boot will have three holes in the tip for the pins to snap into
• If starting out, select the skis that match the type of skiing you want to do and work upwards from there

If you already own a pair of boots, the best and cheapest option is to simply get bindings that are compatible with them. If you own a pair of boots and aren’t sure which type they are, just look at the sole. An NNN boot will have two thin shallow grooves running along it, while an SNS boot will have two bars. A Three Pin binding compatible boot will have three holes in the tip for the pins to snap into.

If you’re starting out, it’s best to start by getting the skis that will work best for the type of cross country skiing you want to do. Basically, skate skis will generally be shorter and more rigid than classic skis, which will be longer and have more grip. If your skis come with binding plates, you can then pick bindings that work with those plates, and get boots that are compatible with bindings, essentially working your way up. 

Of course, the best route is to go into a store so you can get a good feel for how everything works together and feels on your feet, and even try a few rentals before making up your mind so you’ll be amply prepared for a great season. 

If you’re considering keeping your momentum going this winter and staying outdoors rather than moving to the gym, you might be curious about the benefits of snowshoeing vs cross country skiing. Which is best for you? Do you prefer gliding across the snow or hearing it crunch under foot? We decided to compare the two winter sports to help you make up your mind about which one is better for you.

The truth is, snowshoeing and cross country skiing are both outstanding winter sports. They are both low impact activities that offer an incredible workout, and get you outside in winter’s splendor, breathing the invigorating cold air with endorphins pumping through your system. But though they often take place in the same locations, the two are quite distinct and require different levels of expertise and gear. Let’s take a look at some of the main distinguishing factors of snowshoeing vs cross country skiing to help you make up your mind.

Snowshoeing vs cross country skiing: speed

If you feel the need for speed, cross country skiing is going to be the better choice for you. Although cross country skiing isn’t typically as fast as downhill skiing, you can still move at speeds of 7-10mph, faster if you’re skate skiing, whereas in snowshoes you’ll move slower than your regular hiking space, accounting for the snowshoes and deep snow underfoot. This means you’ll get to cover more ground and see more when you’re cross country skiing, too.

Snowshoeing vs cross country skiing: physical challenge

Now both snowshoeing and cross country skiing will give you a great workout, but cross country skiing definitely has the edge here in terms of how vigorous it is. In fact, cross country skiing has been described as the best cardiovascular exercise known, according to the book Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning (by G Gregory Haff and N Travis Triplett), which found it to come in ahead of activities like long distance running, snowshoeing, cycling and rowing. 

The physical demands of snowshoeing will be akin to those of hiking, with a little added weight on your feet, and is nothing to scoff at however. If it’s calories burned that you’re interested in, this chart from Harvard Health actually suggests that snowshoeing will burn more, and that’s probably because you’re able to breathe more easily doing it, making a low intensity workout. Cross country skiing is decidedly high intensity.

Snowshoeing vs cross country skiing: skill required

If you’re looking for something you can jump right into, snowshoeing wins, but if you enjoy the challenge of picking up a new skill, you may be bored. 

Learning to use the gear, balance, turn, stop and move well on cross country skiing does require some time and patience, and there are several different techniques to employ depending on terrain, whereas snowshoeing literally just involves strapping on snowshoes and walking.

Snowshoeing vs cross country skiing: injuries

It should come as no surprise that cross country skiing is a little more high risk, injury-wise, than snowshoeing, although you’re not moving as quickly as in other types of skiing. A report for the British Medical Journal found that less than 5% of 1200 cross country skiers sustained injuries, and 38% of those injuries were musculoskeletal such as dislocated shoulders, knee ligament injuries, tibial plateau fractures and ankle sprains. 

Though there isn’t such a study on snowshoeing injuries that we could find, snowshoeing is not free from the possibility of falls, and some snowshoers do experience knee pain with their activity.

Snowshoeing vs cross country skiing: terrain

Lots of snowshoeing and cross country skiing happens on the same terrain, however you are more limited on skis than you are on snowshoes. On skis, it’s easiest to move along groomed snow – and not all terrain is open to skiers – although you can certainly break trail, however obstacles like fallen branches are harder to navigate on skis, as is especially steep terrain. You can go virtually anywhere there’s snow in a pair of snowshoes, so if you like to get off piste, that’s the best choice for you.

Snowshoeing vs cross country skiing: cost

Your snowshoeing kit basically just involves choosing a pair of snowshoes and dressing in winter layers that you probably already own. Cross country skiing is definitely going to be a bit more demanding on your wallet – after all your cross country skiing kit includes skis, boots, poles and might want some specialized clothing and a belt for carrying your gear. You might end up paying anywhere from $350 to $1000 just to get started, depending on the type of gear you want. More gear also means more hassle storing it at home and transporting it when you want to get out.

Snowshoeing vs cross country skiing: the verdict

Clearly, it’s impossible to choose a winner between two excellent sports and the answer lies in what floats your boat. If you like high intensity sports that require some expertise and you don’t mind parting with a bit of cash, cross country skiing is a truly terrific way to pass the winter months. If you’re a bit more low key and like to roam without much restriction on your movement, or looking for a budget friendly winter sport, strap on your snowshoes. Either way, you’re bound to have a great winter.

Getting the balance right and knowing what to wear cross country skiing takes a bit of practice. It's one of the best cardiovascular workouts around – a pursuit that'll have your body pumping, burning calories by the bucket load and working up a sweat, so you'll overheat quickly if you dress like the Michelin Man. However, by its very nature, it's also a pursuit that takes place in freezing conditions – you're going to need some kind of warmth and protection from your clothing.

So, knowing what to wear cross country skiing is more than just wrapping up warm on a cold day. Whereas you might own insulated ski pants, gloves and jackets for downhill skiing, cross country skiing requires a whole different wardrobe.

Dressing for cross country skiing is all about protecting yourself from the cold outside while managing your own heat and allowing the moisture generated by sweat to escape. Instead of bundling up, you’ll want to wear breathable, lightweight layers that allow unrestricted movement and can be removed as needed, and work together to quickly move sweat away from your body, known as moisture wicking.

In this feature, we detail the gear needed for taking on standard cross country ski trails. For longer ski touring or ski mountaineering missions, you'll need warmer kit.

Meet the expert

Today's best deals

Base layer

• Thermal base layers will keep you warm while providing breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities
• A Merino base layer or a hybrid are good options

The first layer on your upper body should be a lightweight, long sleeve base layer made of wool or a synthetic material that will draw sweat away from your body. Merino wool, in particular is prized for its high warmth to weight ratio and its moisture-wicking capabilities. As well as this, it's anti-microbial, meaning it won't smell of sweat, even after repeated wears.

Whichever top you choose, make sure it has lots of stretch so you can move properly without rubbing. Elastane content in the main fabric will provide the kind of stretch you'll be after.

Mid layer

• Insulating layers between your base layer and outer shell keep you warm
• Multiple thin layers are better than one thick layer

You’ll want an insulating layer over your base layer, such as a light fleece jacket or perhaps a light softshell jacket. This should be one you can tie around your waist or stash in your ski backpack if you get hot.

For really cold adventures, having more than one mid layer is a good idea and always remember that multiple thin layers are preferable to one thick one. This is because multiple layers trap hot air between them and you can always take a couple off, customizing how thick your layering system. This kind of approach gives you the ideal level of temperature control.

Outer layer

• The most important function of a cross country skiers outer layer is to block wind
• Ski jackets and hiker's waterproofs both fit the brief

On very cold days or if there’s a wind, wear a windproof layer on top, such as a hardshell waterproof jacket. The best ski jackets are designed specifically with snow sports and the freedom of movement you'll require in mind. However, fundamentally, there's not a great deal of difference between waterproof hardshells designed for skiers and those designed for hikers.

Waterproof hardshells obviously repel rain and the like, though it's their wind blocking properties that are so appealing to cross country skiers. Windchill can be a tangible hazard above the snowline, robbing body heat through the process of convection and potentially leading to hypothermia.  This is why a quality outer layer can be so important on cross country ski missions.

Tights

• Tights give the freedom of movement needed to ski comfortable
• A thicker pair will provide the insulation you need for colder days

Rather than insulated ski pants or overalls where you'll overheat and won't be able to move as freely, you’ll want to wear cross country ski tights that allow lots of movement and are meant for sweating in. Choose a thicker pair that offer some wind resistance if you’re planning going out on colder days.

Headwear

• Fleece headband or beanies are great for cross country skiing
• In really cold, windy conditons, you might want to consider a balaclava

A fleece headband is ideal for cross country skiing, to cover your ears and keep the sweat out of your eyes without being too warm. You can also wear a thin beanie.

For really cold missions when it's really gusting, you might choose to employ a balaclava to protect your face from windchill. The very best balaclavas are crafted from highly breathable materials, which prevent your ski goggles or sunglasses from steaming up. If conditions ease, you can always pull it down to your neck, where it doubles up as a warm neck gaiter.

Thin, mid-calf socks

• Thick, knee-high socks will be too warm
• Lightweight, mid-calf options are ideal for cross country skiing

You don’t want thick, knee high ski socks as these will likely be too warm. Opt for lightweight, thin socks and go for mid-calf since cross country ski boots don’t come up as high as alpine boots. Our guide to the best hiking socks has some great options.

Liner gloves

• Liner gloves will wick sweat away from your hands and give you grip on your poles
• It's worth having thicker gloves if you intend to stop at any stage

Leave your bulky ski gloves at home and go for thin liner gloves like trail running gloves that wick sweat away from your hands and allow you to grip your poles properly and remove layers without having to take them off.

If you plan to stop for any considerable length of time, it's worth stashing some thicker gloves in your pack. Dachstein mitts come highly recommended for keeping hands warm during such stops.

Cross country ski belt or backpack

• A country country ski belt is a lightweight option for gear storage
• For ski touring and ski mountaineering journeys, you'll need a ski backpack

Needless to say, you’ll need something to carry your water and perhaps outer layers, but a backpack will hinder your movement on speedier missions, so invest in a cross country ski belt which you wear around your waist to carry your gear.

If your outing is more akin to ski touring or ski mountaineering, you'll need a backpack to carry all the items you'll need to keep you safe.

Once you’ve been bitten by the outdoors bug, it’s tough to hang up your hiking boots for the winter knowing it might be a long time before you see them again. You might instead be considering winter hiking this year, or even taking up a winter sport such as snowshoeing or skate skiing. 

Sorry, what? What is this skate skiing you speak of? If you're unfamiliar with the term, fear not. Our resident snow sports expert is here to dive into this surprisingly challenging and high-powered cross country ski technique, one that’s bound to have you emerging from winter stronger than ever.

What is skate skiing?

Skate skiing is a brisk, graceful style of cross country skiing where you point your ski tips outwards and alternately push off the edge of one ski and then the other to glide across the snow.

It emerged in the 1970s and the technique looks and feels a lot like ice skating. Skate skiing generally requires poles to help propel your forward, and it is done on flat or gently rolling terrain and on hard packed or groomed snow. It's known for being an exceptionally good aerobic activity.

Meet the expert

What’s the difference between cross country skiing and skate skiing?

• The technique is different: in skate skiing one foot leaves the ground temporarily
• Skate skiing is also much faster than standard cross-country skiing
• Skate skiing tends to take place on groomed ski tracks

Skate skiing is a type of cross country skiing, distinguishing both from other types of skiing, such as alpine or telemarking. However, there are some key differences when it comes to technique, speed and terrain.

In terms of technique, the term cross country skiing is usually used to describe the classic technique, which involves using wax or a texture on the bottom of the ski to allow you to slide one ski forward, then the other, in more of a shuffling fashion. This technique is generally going to be a bit slower and easier than skate skiing.

In skate skiing, when you push off with one ski, you’ll actually pick that ski up off the ground and send it out to the side, balancing on the other ski momentarily, whereas in the classic technique, both skis stay on the ground and one simply slides forward. This means the two also use slightly different muscle groups, with cross country skiing focusing on front and back muscles like hips flexors, quads and glutes while skate skiing really strengthens your outer hip muscles too.

Speed is another major difference between the two. In skate skiing you pick up quite a bit of speed – the pros travel at speeds of more than 20mph, more than twice that of cross country skiing where you might cover only 7-10 miles over the course of an hour.

Then there’s the question of terrain. Due to the nature of the skate skiing technique, you need a bit of room so it’s best reserved for designated wide skate ski tracks and parks, unlike classic cross country skiing which could also be done in the backcountry on narrow trails and untouched snow.

Is skate skiing like ice skating?

• It's similar in terms of movement, so ice skaters will probably learn faster
• The long skis mean you'll have less freedom of movement

Skate skiing is definitely similar to ice skating in terms of the movement, so if you are already an ice skater, you’re likely to find it easier to pick up and will probably enjoy it. That said, having long skis instead of skates strapped to your feet will definitely pose a new challenge, and you won’t have quite as much freedom of movement as you do on the rink.

How hard is skate skiing?

• It's very difficult, requiring excellent balance, strength and endurance
• It tends to be for expert skiers rather than beginners

Novices might dismiss cross country skiing as being boring, particularly if they’re seeking the adrenaline rush of downhill skiing, but famously, the main problem with skate skiing is that it’s incredibly hard. It’s fast and it requires good balance, strength and endurance. The movement is quite unlike almost any other activity and will be difficult until you strengthen those outer hips muscles and even then it will pose quite a cardiovascular challenge.  

For those reasons, skate skiing tends to appeal to people who are already quite athletic and seeking a bit more excitement and physical demand than classic cross country skiing provides. It’s also going to be more difficult, or even impossible, if there’s any new snow on the ground. Classic cross country skiing on the other hand is generally more accessible for beginners.

What gear do you need for skate skiing?

Even if you already own cross country ski gear, you won’t be able to use it for skate skiing as the technique requires a specific set up. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Skate skis - skate skis are skinny and a bit shorter and more rigid than classic Nordic skis, and you’ll choose these based on your weight.
• Bindings - these attach your boot to your ski and are slightly different from classic bindings. Basically, there are two main types of skating bindings – Salomon Nordic System and New Nordic Form – and they are not compatible, so you’ll want to make sure the pair you choose works with your boots.
• Boots - Skate ski boots are generally more rigid than classic boots to allow you to lift your ski without excessive torsion, and have a high cuff to support your ankle.
• Poles - skate ski poles should come to roughly nose height. If you’re ordering online, you can take your height in centimeters and multiply by 0.89 for the right size.

A British army captain is skiing 700 miles to the South Pole solo and unsupported, becoming the first woman of color to do so.

CNN reports that Preet Chandi, 32, of Derby, England has flown to Chile and from there, she will be dropped at Antarctica's Hercules Inlet. Chandi who has adopted the nickname “Polar Preet” plans to spend about 45 days trekking across the ice to the pole on cross country skis, hauling her kit, fuel and food in a sled weighing almost 200 lbs. Along the way, she can expect temperatures as low as -58 °F and her only human contact will be daily check-ins with her support team, recorded messages from friends and audiobooks.

“I had this idea 2.5 years ago and I’m finally on my way. Before planning this, I never imagined I would be going to Antarctica and doing an expedition of this size. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt is not to limit yourself. We are capable of so much, it took me a while to believe in myself but I got there eventually and I’m now feeling ready for the challenge ahead!” wrote Chandi on her blog. 

Chandi, an ultra marathon runner who has been training since 2018 in the French Alps, Greenland, Iceland's Langjökull Glacier and by dragging a heavy tire at home in England, told CNN she’s making the journey as a personal goal, but also to inspire others to challenge their own boundaries and beliefs about cultural norms in the outdoors.

"I'm told that 'you don't really look like a polar explorer,’” she said, referring to her South Asian background. "There was a time ago that I probably wouldn't have thought or realized how much representation does matter. It's probably the last few years and also going through this journey that I realized how important it really is, how there are other young girls out there called Preet, because Preet's a common Indian name, or with my middle name Kaur. They see somebody that might be from the same background, or just looks a little bit different to what they expect, and how powerful that is."

Though other women have completed this feat, the first being Liv Arensen from Norway in 1993, Chandi will be the first woman of color to do so. Chandi, who played competitive tennis as a teenager, joined Britain's Army Reserve as a medic while studying to get onto a physiotherapy degree course. After graduating and working as a physiotherapist, she joined the regular Army in 2012 and since then has become an endurance athlete.

After completing the trek, Chandi said she plans to use half of the money raised through the Go Fund Me appeal for her polar trip to set up an "adventure grant" for women of any age or background. 

Knowing the different cross country skiing techniques can help you navigate varied terrain and ensure you enjoy all the amazing benefits of cross country skiing.

When you’re just getting started with cross country skiing, you might be wondering why you seem to be shuffling awkwardly through the snow instead of gracefully gliding across it like other skiers. The difference might be down to experience level of course, but it’s helpful to know that there are various methods you can employ according to different circumstances. 

Basically, cross country skiing techniques vary according to what kind of snow and terrain you are skiing on. Like other types of skiing, cross country skiing techniques start out simple and become more complex, allowing you freedom to improve as you gain skills and confidence. In this article, we take a look at some of the most common cross country skiing techniques, and when you might use them. 

Cross country skiing techniques 

There are two basic cross country skiing techniques that are used for forward locomotion on different types of snow – these are known as the classic technique and skate skiing – while turning techniques are used for descents.  

Classic technique 

The classic cross country skiing technique involves using wax or a texture on the bottom of the ski to allow you to slide one ski forward, then the other. This technique is used on untouched or tracked snow. The Classic is ideal for beginners and can entail a variety of sub-techniques to incorporate the use of poles or navigate different types of terrain: 

• Diagonal stride: in this technique, the skier plants the pole on the opposite side to the forward-moving ski. So if you are sliding your right ski forward, you would simultaneously be pushing off with the pole in your left hand. 
• Kick-double-pole: this technique is required on a gentle slope when great use of arms is required. Here, you plant both poles simultaneously with every other stride to propel yourself forward. 
• Herringbone: on moderate uphill terrain, you can turn your skis outward and essentially step up the hill without sliding backwards. 
• Side step: on steeper uphill terrain, instead of attacking the slope head-on you can turn sideways so that your skis are perpendicular to the hill and step up with your uphill ski, followed by your downhill ski. You can also apply this to steep downhills.

Skate skiing 

The skate skiing technique is employed on a smooth, firm snow surface like a skate skiing track and looks a lot like ice skating with skis on. Your skis will be pointed outwards and you push off one ski and then the other to propel yourself forward at high speed, often with a double pole plant every stride or every other stride. To go uphill in this technique, you widen the “V” of your skis, take shorter and more frequent strides and use your poles more forcefully. 

Turns 

Though not as commonly used in cross country skiing as in alpine skiing, turns are employed when going downhill or for braking. There are two common turns used in cross country skiing: 

• The snowplough, also known as “the wedge turn” or "pizza wedge" is the most basic way of stopping and the first method taught to beginners, however it remains useful at all levels on steep descents. Here, you simply bring the front ends of your skis together to come to a stop or slowly turn. 
• The stem christie was developed by Austrian Hannes Schneider and basically involves turning one ski outward in the direction you want to move in, then following it with the other ski until the two skis are parallel. 

If you’re interested in extending your outdoor season through the winter, take a look at our roundup of different winter sports you can try this cold season. 

Watching the puff of your breath in the crisp, cold air as you glide through soft snow in Nordic skis just feels like it has to be good for you, but is it as good for you as other winter sports? In this article, we take a look at the compelling benefits of cross country skiing and make the case for you to take it up this winter.

In cross country skiing, also known as Nordic skiing, you use your own locomotion to travel across terrain that may be flat or hilly using movements like striding or skating, and often using your poles to help propel you forward. Cross country skiing can be a recreational activity that takes place in the back country or a Nordic ski resort, or a form of transportation, and it’s harder work than riding a ski lift up and zooming down. 

Best of all, cross country skiing is a bit more accessible than downhill skiing, which can be more dangerous and expensive, and it’s a great way to escape the crowds that you often find at ski resorts.

All types of skiing bring great physical and mental health benefits, and while cross country skiing might not carry the same adrenaline rush vibes as downhill skiing, the benefits of cross country skiing outweigh the other styles by a mile. Now that the weather is turning colder and your hiking boots are heading for storage, our list of benefits of cross country skiing might just be the motivation you need to stay out of the gym and on the trails this season. 

1. It’s the best known form of cardiovascular exercise 

While alpine skiing is a bit more about the adrenaline rush than aerobic activity, cross country skiing makes a more than adequate replacement for being in the gym in winter, according to Pete Petrovski, Senior Manager of Adult Ski School in Beaver Creek, Colorado who oversees Nordic and Snowshoe operations.

"One great benefit of cross country skiing is the cardio workout it gives you; it’s an excellent opportunity to be outside in the winter while staying warm and working out," said Petrovski.

In fact, cross country skiing is reportedly the best cardiovascular exercise known, according to the book Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning (by G Gregory Haff and N Travis Triplett), which found it to come in ahead of activities like long distance running, snowshoeing, cycling and rowing. 

In cross country skiing, you use your arms and legs to move forward and you’re carrying the extra weight of skis and ski boots on your feet. Cardiovascular exercise has obvious physical benefits, such as weight loss, reduced blood pressure and strengthening your heart and lungs, but studies have shown it can also have mental benefits such as improving your concentration span.

2. It’s a fat burner 

As an extremely aerobic form of exercise, it goes without saying that one of the benefits of cross country skiing is that it burns up loads of calories, and the fact that you do it in a cold setting boosts this benefit even further. Any time you exercise in cold temperatures, your body has to work harder to maintain homeostasis (constant temperature), which requires more energy, so basically cross country skiing trumps hot yoga any day of the week. 

3. It strengthens all the major muscle groups 

Cross country skiing is a full body workout, like swimming, that uses and strengthens all the major muscle groups in your arms, chest, back, abdominals and legs. 

4. It’s easy on your joints  

Despite the strenuous physical workout it provides, cross country skiing is actually a low-impact sport. High-impact sports like running and jumping have you coming further off the ground and landing more heavily, which can damage your joints and muscles over time. Even though your feet leave the ground during cross country skiing, the movement is more of a glide and therefore much kinder to your joints. 

5. It helps improve your balance 

To be fair, all forms of skiing are great for improving your balance since they all involve staying upright on slippery surfaces while wearing skinny planks on your feet, but the shifting of your weight from side to side combined with the different strides involved with cross country skiing really up the ante when it comes to improving your balance and strengthening your stabilizing muscles. Having good balance helps prevent injuries and supports overall movement, and it becomes more important as you age.

6. It helps with your coordination 

As your balance improves, so will your coordination, which is the ability of different parts of your body to work together effectively. Coordination utilizes the cerebellum, which plays an important role in motor control, and can be improved by doing complex physical tasks, like cross country skiing, where your arms and legs are doing different things but have to work together to keep you upright. Improving your coordination doesn’t only make you better at cross country skiing, it helps you with all physical activities and might even help you process information faster, which is a function of your cerebellum. 

7. It boosts your mood and wellbeing 

The scenic settings of cross country skiing combined with the social nature of the sport make it feel intuitively wholesome, and the science seems to back this up. Exercise and spending time in nature are both proven to pack some serious mental health benefits, from helping with depression to lowering stress levels. 

Petrovski reflected that this particular benefit is amplified in cross country skiing over some other types of skiing because it's not as high velocity.

"Another benefit is that the pace of cross country skiing gives you the ability to observe what’s around you, and really be at one with nature."

We discuss this in more detail in our article on green exercise, but suffice it to say, cross country skiing gets you out into the great outdoors and life outdoors is better.