November 2012 Chatter - Townsite of Redwood Meadows

Prepare for Cross Country Ski Season with the Right EquipmentHere are some tips to get you ready for the upcomingcross country ski season, courtesy of FloraGiesbrecht, head coach and program director for XCBragg Creek.CLOTHING (adapted from a handout from University ofCalgary Outdoor Programs)Dress in Layers using 3 Ws:1. Wicking layer next to your skin, e.g., polypropylenelong underwear or wool (NOT cotton!)2. Warm layer – fleece or wool works well. A vest iswill keep your core warm. It is better to dress inmultiple thin layers, rather than one bulky layer,as you can regulate your temperature better.3. Wind layer on top. An outer shell or pants thatwill block the wind.Carry a small pack with food and water. Haveenough room to carry extra layers.Be warm but avoid sweating – take off layers asneeded and make sure your outer layers are breathable.Being damp is what will make you cold, especiallyif you have to stop moving.Velcro strap above the heel; fiddle around withthat as it can make a big difference on whetheryour heel lifts out or not.• Don't wear a thick sock when you try on boots. Ifyou don't have some already, get a pair of syntheticsocks designed for cross country skiing andwear them when you are trying on boots.• Also, if you have any inserts or footbeds, bringthem when you try on boots.There are basically three styles of ski boots: classic,skate, and combi (combi can be used for either technique).They all fit differently. Skate and combi bootsare taller and stiffer and have more ankle support.(Combi boots tend to be more like a classic boot thana skate boot). A classic ski boot flexes at the toe box(more like a running shoe).SKISThere are two types of track cross country skis: classicand skate. Classic skiing is when your legs areparallel to each other and you ski in a track and yourContinued on next pageFor your hands, mitts are warmer than gloves. Youcan use the 3 W’s on your hands as well; start with athin glove or mitt (not cotton), then a warm mitt, anda windproof over mitt. Instant hand warmers (e.g.,Hotshots) are good if your hands get really cold.For your feet – again use the 3 Ws; wicking, warm,then your boots are the wind layer. It’s better to havetwo thin socks than one pair of bulky thick socks. It’sbest to use one ski sock layer and then if your feet areprone to getting cold, get a “boot warmer.” (It’s a layeryou put over your boots that’s designed for skiboots and bindings).Ski Equipment for track skiing (on groomed trails)BOOTS• Getting a good fit is very important. When buyingnew equipment, I always recommend startingwith the boots.• If possible, don't be afraid to walk around in themfor 20 minutes before purchasing. They should fitlike a running shoe and fit right away. Make surethere is no heel lift. Some boots (Salomon) have a24 CHATTER IN THE WOODS, November 2012