How to choose a skate cross-country skiing equipment?

Skate skiing is the art of transforming groomed snow into a propulsion track. The skis open up in a V shape, and the upper body accompanies the skating stride with the push of the poles.
Unlike classic cross-country skiing, which is done on tracks and favours regularity, skating requires more physical effort. Your thighs burn, your breathing quickens, but the reward is immediate: a feeling of fluid speed that makes you want to go again and again.

To sum up: classic cross-country skiing is about quiet endurance, while skating is about power and fluidity.

Once you have determined your level of experience, it is up to your body to decide. Choosing a pair of skis is not just about choosing beginner- or expert-level skis; they must also suit your body type and weight to ensure efficient and enjoyable skiing.

The length of the skis is a key factor. We generally recommend choosing skis that are 10 to 15 cm longer than your height. Long skis promote a more fluid and stable glide, ideal for powerful starts and fast runs. 
Conversely, shorter skis offer better manoeuvrability, which can be an advantage for beginners or skiers who prefer turns and changes of direction.

The camber should be chosen according to your weight. It determines the grip and rebound of the ski: a well-suited camber allows you to push off, accelerate easily and maintain optimal contact with the snow. 
Conversely, an unsuitable camber reduces performance and makes skiing less enjoyable. The safest option is to follow the recommendations indicated on each ski model.

And if you already own a pair of skate ski boots, you will need to check that the binding standards are compatible between your boots and your new pair of skis.

You have all the information you need to choose your skis, but there is one more important point to bear in mind: the compatibility of the bindings.

Nowadays, all new skate ski boots and, in general, skate cross-country skiing boots are compatible with new skis, regardless of their brand: this was not the case in the past when there were different binding standards (PROLINK, NNN, SNS PILOT, SNS PROFIL, etc.), so you had to check compatibility.
If you are investing in new products, you won't have to worry about this, but pay attention to the brand and compatibility if you choose a pair of second-hand skis or boots. In this case, you can refer to this table, which summarises the different brands and standards, to check that the binding standards are compatible with your boots.

For more information, see our comprehensive guide:

Being well equipped means you can ski with peace of mind and enjoy every outing to the full. 

When it comes to clothing, we recommend opting for thin, breathable layers that wick away perspiration while keeping you warm. The idea is to stay light and free to move, without ever feeling weighed down.

Don't forget the essential accessories: a lightweight hat to protect your head from the cold, suitable gloves that combine warmth and precision when gripping your poles, and sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from both UV rays and the glare of the snow. 
These small details make a big difference to your comfort and enjoyment of skiing.

When it comes to safety, there are some simple but essential steps to take. Always carry a water bottle or hydration pack to stay hydrated, even on the shortest outings, and get into the habit of checking the weather forecast before you set off. 
Knowing the snow, wind and temperature conditions will allow you to adapt your clothing, your routes and your pace, so that every outing remains a safe and enjoyable sporting experience.

Well-maintained skis will glide smoothly and remain enjoyable throughout the season. After each outing, take the time to carefully wipe down your skis and bindings to remove moisture, melted snow and dust that could affect their performance. This simple step will make your equipment last longer and ensure consistent ease on the snow.

It is essential to wax your bases regularly. This not only maintains optimal glide, but also protects the base of the skis from wear and tear and drying out. Well-waxed skis glide more easily and better transfer the energy of your pushes, making your sessions more efficient and enjoyable.

Finally, think about storage and store your skis flat, in a dry place, away from heat and direct light, to preserve the rigidity of the materials and to avoid any deformation of the camber.

With these simple habits, your skis will perform better for longer and your outings will always be a pleasurable experience.