Skiing Types

Touring Skiing

Purpose: Designed for skiing over varied terrain including in the groomed tracks or in ungroomed snow.
Equipment: Skis are wider and more stable with a waxless grip zone (i.e. fish scales) on the bottom. Boots are flexible and comfortable.
Technique: Uses a walking or gliding motion, with poles for balance. Touring is generally less about speed and more about enjoying the scenery and getting exercise. Most people new to Nordic skiing start with touring skis.

Purpose: Traditional cross-country skiing, mainly on groomed tracks.
Equipment: Skis are long and narrow with a grip zone in the middle to prevent slipping. Grip zone can come from grip wax, fish scales or skins. (Nordic Hut Performance Classic packages are use skin grip zones.) Boots are typically short in height and flexible.
Technique: Involves a diagonal striding motion, with a kick-and-glide rhythm. It's great for both recreational and competitive skiers.

Purpose: Focused on speed and aerobic exercise.
Equipment: Skis are shorter and stiffer with a smooth base. Boots have rigid ankle support for better power transfer.
Technique: Similar to ice skating, with a V-shaped pattern. It requires strong upper and lower body coordination and is typically faster than classic skiing. It is highly recommended that you take lessons if you have never tried this technique.