Types of Nordic Boots
Absorb the following information about the main categories of Nordic ski boots. Click this link for details on Nordic boot fitting.
RACE:
- these are the boots that world class racers are using
- feature-packed, lightweight and the most technologically advanced
- skate, classic, combi models suited to groomed and tracked terrain
- best matched with the Salomon or NNN binding systems
You want the lightest soles, the most advanced design, the latest and greatest in water-proofing and generally the highest caliber boots there are for Nordic center racing. Maybe you are planning on biting off a couple of ski marathons, or perhaps it's cross-training for the summer grass skiing championships. Whatever it is, skiing hard is the motif. These are the boots to do it in. Offered in skate, classic and combi versions, these boots are meant for Classic Track or Skating skis. Who knows, you may one day receive a garland of flowers from the President of Finland in these boots.
Examples: Salomon Racing Skate 9 and Fischer C5000 Classic
SPORT:
- high-performance boots for active skiers that are not racing
- designed for use at Nordic areas on groomed and tracked terrain
- also offered in skate, classic, combi models
- best matched with the Salomon or NNN binding systems
So you're not the next Yulia Tchepalova, and though you may not know who that is, you still want to push yourself on the trail. Boots that fall into the Sport category combine the high-performance and affordability you are seeking. These are intended for good recreational skiers, but beginners who are interested in making Nordic skiing their winter sport will also benefit from these qualities. Skate, classic and combi versions are offered in this category. These are best matched with Classic Track or Skating skis. And don't feel too bad: Most of us don't know who Yulia Tchepalova is.
Examples: Fischer XC Vitalis and Alpina SP25
LIGHT TOURING
- boots designed with the necessary stability and versatility for both in- and out-of-track skiing
- lends confidence to skiers on gentle to moderate downhills and over uneven terrain
- most often utilize Salomon or NNN binding systems; a few may use the SNS-BC or NNN Backcountry systems
If you asked five people how they use their Light Touring equipment, you'd probably get four different answers. And then one would change her mind, and you'd have five. In this vein, some touring boots are geared toward less active skiers, who may simply be out for fresh air and use their skis more like snowshoes. Those who move at a faster pace and explore more difficult trails benefit from stiffer boots with plastic reinforcement around the ankle. Touring boot selection will also depend on the percentage of time spent on groomed trails versus ungroomed, and where the most performance is desired. If trips to the Nordic center are in the minority, then you'll have more fun in the woods with heavier-duty models. Light Touring boots can be great choices for skiers new to the sport, even if they'll only be skiing on groomed trails.
Examples: Alpina TR40 and Salomon Escape 7
RUGGED TOURING / BACKCOUNTRY
- built out of leather, reinforced synthetic material or entirely from plastic for the most downhill control
- these boots sport sturdy upper cuffs for lateral support on rugged terrain
- gives skiers the authority to tackle steeper slopes and deeper powder
- use either the SNS-BC, the NNN-BC or the 75mm 3-pin system
These boots are appropriately matched with skis of the Rugged Touring persuasion; the bigger binding platforms and secure connections offered provide the power to drive the ski through turns and easily manipulate it over fallen trees and stream crossings. You'd never expect a lawnmower engine to run a Ford F150, would you? You see above that backcountry boots come with either one of the system BC soles or the time-honored 75mm sole. Skiers focusing on kick and glide are best suited to Salomon or New Nordic Norm Backcountry combinations, which are wider and sturdier versions of what appear on Classic Track skis. If making turns is your bailiwick, you should instead be paired with the 75mm sole and compatible bindings. Plastic boots are also appropriate for the ultimate in downhill control with particular models. Telemark and alpine-style turns are much easier with the 75mm system because it offers such a positive connection with the ski.
Examples: Fischer BCX6 and BCX675
