Winter Frequently Asked Questions

How do you size classical and skate skis?

Gone are the days where you’d stick your arm straight up and choose a length that is closest to your bent wrist, and if someone insists that this is *still* how it is done, run away. Much the same thing that happened to alpine skis is happening in Nordicdom as well. Skis have for the most part grown shorter. Leaving the bent wrist method behind, today we size nordic skis primarily based on weight, modified by intended usage and ability level. Manufacturers provide us with this technical information on all of our skis, including weight ranges for each specific model length and stiffness. Rest assured that we know how to size you.

It is body weight that compresses the kick zone of a classic ski. And in a given model, greater the length, the more camber the ski possesses. If a ski is sized too short, most of the kick zone will be touching the snow (causing lots of drag) during the glide phase because the camber is meant to support a lighter skier. Too long a ski will be difficult to compress, have a shorter effective kick zone and will not provide enough climbing grip. Remember that there is wide variation among classical and skate skis, and one model may reach well above your head while another may hit you in the chin. Higher performing race skis come in several closely spaced sizes and flexs so they can be custom-selected for ability and snow conditions. With more casual touring skis, so many options are not needed.

Poles are much more straightforward. For classic poles, size them to your armpit; intermediate or advanced skiers may prefer a little longer for more pole power. Skating poles need to be longer to properly assist the skating motion. Roughly between the chin and the lower lip is the right size.

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Bike: Johnny's 10 Bike Tips Local MTB Rides Ski & Board: How-To Waxing Guide Winter Ski/Board F.A.Q. 06-07 Ski Gallery		Winter Frequently Asked Questions back to FAQ How do you size classical and skate skis? Gone are the days where you’d stick your arm straight up and choose a length that is closest to your bent wrist, and if someone insists that this is still how it is done, run away. Much the same thing that happened to alpine skis is happening in Nordicdom as well. Skis have for the most part grown shorter. Leaving the bent wrist method behind, today we size nordic skis primarily based on weight, modified by intended usage and ability level. Manufacturers provide us with this technical information on all of our skis, including weight ranges for each specific model length and stiffness. Rest assured that we know how to size you. It is body weight that compresses the kick zone of a classic ski. And in a given model, greater the length, the more camber the ski possesses. If a ski is sized too short, most of the kick zone will be touching the snow (causing lots of drag) during the glide phase because the camber is meant to support a lighter skier. Too long a ski will be difficult to compress, have a shorter effective kick zone and will not provide enough climbing grip. Remember that there is wide variation among classical and skate skis, and one model may reach well above your head while another may hit you in the chin. Higher performing race skis come in several closely spaced sizes and flexs so they can be custom-selected for ability and snow conditions. With more casual touring skis, so many options are not needed. Poles are much more straightforward. For classic poles, size them to your armpit; intermediate or advanced skiers may prefer a little longer for more pole power. Skating poles need to be longer to properly assist the skating motion. Roughly between the chin and the lower lip is the right size. back to FAQ