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More about skating skis

At high speeds, cross-country skating skis glide through snow-covered landscapes. Whether as a power workout during interval training or a more relaxed way of enjoying nature – up on a glacier or down in the valley – groomed trails offer many possibilities, and so do skating skis. They are short and light, making them easy to lift with every stride. At the same time, they must be long enough to glide smoothly and remain stable while skiing. In addition, there are several other characteristics in which skating skis differ from one another.

Skating skis differ significantly from classic cross-country skis

If you take a look at the base of the ski, you’ll immediately notice that it is completely smooth. While classic cross-country skis feature a roughened kick zone in the middle of the base, skating skis are focused purely on the glide phase and therefore don’t need this zone. In classic cross-country skiing, there are also so-called skin skis. These have an integrated skin – usually made of mohair – in the base, which eliminates the need for grip wax while still allowing smooth gliding.

Skating skis are also slightly shorter, generally about body height plus 8 cm, depending on skill level and body weight. More advanced skiers will choose a slightly longer ski, as will heavier skiers. The ski tip is also different: classic skis have a more pronounced, raised tip, while skating ski tips are flatter.

The biggest difference lies in the camber. Skating skis feature a camber similar to that of alpine skis. You can see this when placing the ski flat on the ground – there is a visible gap between the base and the surface in the middle of the ski. Classic skis also have camber, but due to the different techniques, the camber construction differs. The camber of skating skis is generally stiffer, though there are differences between models here as well: the stiffer the camber, the more pressure and power are required. In other words, the more athletic the skier, the stiffer the ski should be. Beginners are therefore better off choosing a softer model.

In addition, skating skis have high torsional stiffness. This allows for a powerful push-off and provides excellent lateral stability.

Skating skis differ significantly from classic cross-country skis

Once you’ve chosen the right skating ski, it’s time to hit the trail

Press the edges into the snow, push off powerfully, and acceleration begins. Then the weight shifts from one ski to the other, allowing you to glide over the snow. With the right technique and lightweight equipment, speeds of up to 30 km/h are possible. Even climbs and turns are handled with ease, as skating skis are agile and maneuverable.

Unlike alpine skis, the bases of cross-country skis are tailored to their specific area of use. That’s why there are bases designed for cold snow, warm snow, and universal conditions. Skis need to be waxed regularly – not before every outing like classic skis, but still fairly often. Madshus Intelligrip skis are an exception: they feature a no-wax base and therefore don’t need to be waxed.

The core of a skating ski affects its skiing characteristics

Different manufacturers, different price segments, and different target groups. The core also has a significant impact on skiing performance. Wooden cores make skis slightly heavier but extremely durable. Carbon constructions and foam cores are just as robust as wood but lighter. Carbon is often used in honeycomb constructions, which involve a very complex manufacturing process – that’s why these skis tend to belong to the higher price segment.

There is also cap construction, known from alpine skis, which results in very lightweight skis. Stability is also influenced by the sidewalls. Most skating skis have no sidecut; instead, they are very straight. The narrower the ski, the faster it usually is. Ski stiffness also plays a key role. Skating skis are available in different stiffness levels, which allows for variation in ski length as well.

What’s crucial in cross-country skiing is that all equipment components work together. Skating boots have very stiff soles and slightly higher ankle cuffs for optimal support. There are also boots that can be used for both skating and classic skiing. However, if you plan to invest a lot of time in the sport, dedicated skating boots are recommended. Pole use must also be matched correctly: skating poles are very stiff and approximately chin-high – slightly taller than classic poles, which usually reach chest height.

When cross-country skiing, it is important that your equipment is compatible.