Winter Sports Equipment
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-Country Skiing Gear: The extra push for the slope
Cross-Country Skiing – The Winter Sport for Full-Body Training and Enjoying Nature
Cross-country skiing is not only an effective full-body workout that engages numerous muscle groups. This endurance winter sport is also gentle on the joints and offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the winter landscape while staying active. Here, you’ll learn everything about techniques, equipment, and tips to boost your performance and fully enjoy cross-country skiing.
Learning cross-country skiing is easier than you might think: Beginners usually start with the classic technique, which closely resembles Nordic walking due to its diagonal arm and leg movements. For those trying cross-country skiing for the first time, it’s a good idea to practice the proper movements on a flat and smooth ski trail. The classic technique is almost exclusively practiced on specially prepared cross-country trails, known as groomed tracks. You can get started as soon as you feel reasonably confident.
Essentially, two techniques are practiced in classic cross-country skiing:
The double-poling technique is the most important method of propulsion in classic cross-country skiing. Here, the glide of both skis is driven forward by a parallel arm push. The cross-country skis remain parallel to each other in the track. Skiers bend their knees slightly during this motion. For amateurs, the legs take a break and do not generate propulsion, merely staying in the track. Professionals, however, create additional propulsion by rolling through their toes.
The herringbone step is a climbing technique used when the grip in diagonal striding is no longer sufficient for forward movement on steep terrain. Propulsion is achieved by pushing off the edges of the splayed skis, while the poles are positioned at the level of the body or slightly behind it. There is no glide phase in this technique.
Enjoy the winter wonderland even more with our products for cross-country skiing
Compared to the classic style, the "skating step," also known as skating, is somewhat more demanding: A groomed track is not necessary for this technique, as it features more dynamic movements overall. Mastering the proper timing between pushing and gliding requires some practice and a good basic level of fitness. Therefore, it is typically reserved for more advanced cross-country skiers. However, if you spend a lot of time on inline skates in the summer, you’ll likely pick it up quickly on skis as well. Cross-country skiing skating also utilizes the following techniques:
- In one-skate (also called single timing), each leg push is supported by a double-pole action.
- In the asymmetric leading arm technique, the pole is used every second leg push, with the leading hand’s pole positioned close to the ski.
- In the arm swing technique, the simultaneous push with both arms occurs only every second step.
- In diagonal skating, primarily used by less experienced skiers to conserve energy on climbs, the movement resembles the herringbone step in classic cross-country skiing but includes a small glide phase.
Sports Compression Sleeves Upper Leg
Sports Compression Sleeves Lower Leg
Our compression sleeves for the arm offer you the perfect support for swinging your cross-country poles and powerful push-off:
Sports Compression Sleeves Arm
The right equipment is crucial for cross-country skiing. It is best to seek expert advice in a winter sports shop. Skis form the basis, with classic and skating styles requiring different models. Bindings ensure a secure grip, while special cross-country boots provide optimum control and comfort. Ski poles provide stability and propulsion, and choosing the right clothing, including breathable clothing and matching accessories such as ski goggles, hats and gloves, is essential to stay warm and dry.
Compared to alpine skiing or snowboarding, the danger on the cross-country ski trail is relatively low, but there are still risk factors for cross-country skiing injuries. Icy trails or steep descents can lead to falls. However, inadequate training and, as a result, overloading and incorrect loading can also lead to painful consequences such as torn ligaments, inflammation or prolonged muscle tension (muscle dystonia).
The good news is that you can also proactively prevent such injury risks when cross-country skiing with the right equipment.
The Ski Socks from Bauerfeind Sports have been proven to increase your power through targeted compression. You benefit from a higher rapid and maximum power and improve blood circulation which prevents muscle and tissue damage - allowing you to stay on track for longer. The socks are made of a breathable, high-tech microfiber, which perfectly adapts to your body’s profile and has a temperature and moisture-regulating effect - which guarantees a high wearing comfort even during long tours.
Our ski socks are available in two versions:
- Ski Alpine Compression Socks (for maximum performance and comfort on long tours)
- Ski Touring Compression Socks (very comfortable and breathable)
Our Sports Recovery Socks are the ideal solution to promote your recovery after a strenuous cross-country skiing tour. Take a look at them now!!
