What’s Your Preference?

While skate skiers propel themselves in a skating motion, classic skiers use more of an elliptical machine type motion. This means that while the types of Nordic skis look similar, they couldn’t be more different. So, when purchasing a Nordic ski you must first start with the basics. What are looking to do? Classic skis are amazingly versatile. You can ski in the woods, on the track, or across mountains. The whole family can do it together or you can get an early morning aerobic workout since you are only limited by how far your legs will let you go.

Unlike classic, skate skiing is limited mostly to a groomed track or trail, of which the options in Park City are numerous. This technique entices the skier with the push and glide of covering more ground in a shorter period of time and the cross-over to alpine skiing (as in, “skating up to the lift.”) Diehard skate skiers have been known to use classic to complement their skate technique, but either way, it’s up to you. You just have to know which you want to do before we can offer much help.

Length Matters

Once technique and ability have been determined, the Experts at Jans consider the biometrics, such as height and weight, to help determine a ski’s length and the all-important flex.

Flex Is The Thing

Flex is a big word for such skinny skis but it is the key in all things Nordic. It is the numerical value assigned to flexing the ski into the snow and determines the stability and ease of use. It includes tip flex (how much the tip of the ski flexes), camber height (how high the ski is off the snow) and residual chamber (how much height is left in the ski after you compress your weight into it.) Some Nordic ski manufacturers, such as Rossignol and Atomic, provide residual camber values. Others prefer to use a simple flex rating.

While residual camber is more important for racers, every Nordic skier can benefit from it. And that’s where the experts at Jans come in. They can interpret flex, both the quantitative and qualitative values, to take the guesswork out of the process and help you find the best ski possible. These charts will help get you started.