The Daily Skier
All things Nordic
Styles
Classic
In cross country skiing there are two different styles of skiing that are usually done on groomed trails. Classic skiing is done in a track to the side of the trail where your skis run parallel to each other. Most beginner skiers learn to classic ski because it's similar to walking, and is the that's most natural. Classic skiing is generally the more popular of the two styles as it's the easiest to find equipment for. For skis, you can find waxless or fish scaled skis for less and little to no maintenance. Skis are measured by the skier's weight, classic skis are taller than the skier. Poles for classic cross country skiing should reach your arm pits.
Skate
If you prefer speed, than you might like skate skiing better. For skate, you're skiing in the middle of the groomed trail. Skate skiing is also known as "freestyle" because you're in the middle of the trail instead of a track. Therefore, there's not as much guidance as classic skiing. The skis are shorter than classic skis, but the poles are taller than classic poles; they should reach your nose area. Skate skis use only glide wax, they can become more technical or expensive due to the fact that fish scales are not an option for this style.
