The main secrets of how to choose skis. Choosing cross-country skis, ski boots, ski poles, ski waxes Which brand of skis is the best

Skiing, as a separate form of entertainment and a type of sporting event, includes full training and the availability of the necessary accessory - a set of cross-country skis. Which brands are the most popular and meet the quality requirements?

Cross-country skiing Fischer

Fisher's hallmark of quality is the RACE CODE. Professionals are interested in the main thing - speed, in which inventory plays a key role. The new generations of Fischer cross-country skis will captivate athletes and amateur racers. Thanks to the new WAX technology, maximum glide on the snow surface is ensured.

The line is represented by several types:

• Race Classic
• Race Combi
• Race Skating
• Women My Style
• Nordic Cruising
• Offtrack Cruising
• Sport
• backcountry
• S-Bound
• Junior

The technologies used in production make any model just perfect for use by beginners and professionals. The price on the market ranges from 2,500 to 20,000 rubles, depending on the type and configuration.

High quality Rossignol skis

A distinctive feature of Rossignol skis, for which they are so appreciated by professionals, is a non-standard mode of operation. The kits are energy intensive and slip resistant on surfaces of any density. Since all athletes try to choose their skis with a margin of rigidity, you do not need to do this with Rossignol - pay attention to the weight of the model. Manufacturer Rossignol - France, which speaks of the build quality of the highest level:

• manual assembly
• the possibility of individual adjustment of the press

Thanks to special markings on skis, everyone can easily choose the best product for themselves for amateur or professional skiing.

A wide range of Atomic skis

Atomic cross-country skis are the product of craftsmen from Austria, real experts in the production of winter sports equipment. Thanks to the technologies used during skiing, full control over the mechanism, high dynamics and maximum speed are ensured. In addition, over the past season, the Atomic range has become the most sought after at the largest ski races in Switzerland.

Since this manufacturer offers professional kits, their cost is an order of magnitude higher than previous brands and starts from 8000 rubles.

Popular ski brand Madshus

Products of the Madshus trademark are known to everyone who is not indifferent to skiing. The products of this brand are actively used by professionals, and just lovers of driving on snowy slopes. The first Madshus sets were made in 1924 in the barn of Martin Madshus. Since then, the era of cross-country and alpine skiing has begun, which to this day is accompanied by numerous awards and the status of one of the best for professionals and amateurs.

The design, thought over to trifles, provides ideal sliding on any density of snow. The production uses Cad Construction technologies.

For connoisseurs of skiing and active winter recreation, a line of cross-country skis by Salomon, one of the leading manufacturers of sports goods, has been created. Over the years, the brand has managed to prove itself from the best side in many competitions around the world. Salomon skis are European quality. The line includes models for both regular walks and skating. Versatile structures allow you to ride comfortably on any type of snowy trail.

Salomon uses the finest woods and the highest quality composite materials to manufacture its products.

The Larsen company from Finland is a low-cost manufacturer of cross-country skis. Almost all products are characterized by versatility and are suitable for both skating and classic skating. Are there quality guarantees for skis, the price of which barely reaches 2000 rubles? The whole point is that revolutionary technologies are not used for production.

Manufacture takes place according to the classical scheme, which allows you to make skis ideal for maneuvers on slippery surfaces. Therefore, if you need to master the technique of skiing, Larsen will be an ideal option in this difficult matter.

Nordway - the perfect ski for Russia

This brand is known to everyone who is familiar with skiing. This is a personal brand of the Sportmaster network. By the way, not all sets of this line can boast of impeccability. But such a picture is compensated by a rather budgetary cost. from 1200 rubles. The most popular in the assortment are children's models of the combined style. The production uses a traditional approach, but the zest is made by modern high quality materials.

Attention! NORDWAY skis are optimal for the climatic conditions of Russia, suitable for mastering the art of skiing and for semi-professional competitions.

ATEMI - cross-country skiing for beginners

The brand's products are mainly represented by running models designed for classic running and amateur skating. The most popular representative is the ATEMI Escape line. At the heart of each set is a core packed in plastic. The surface is lubricated with polyester, which provides a stable, but not fast running.

The cost of an Atemi kit is on average 1500 rubles which makes this line accessible for beginner runners and true fans of skiing on the snowy slopes.

The history of Tisa celebrated its 50th anniversary a couple of years ago. Before the appearance of competitors on the market in the face of the above brands, the company occupied a leading position. Thus, today TISA products occupy a confident place in the mid-price segment. Experts in the field of skiing refer to TISA as a "national treasure", as the history of the brand is closely connected with many achievements of the sporting era.

TISA skis are time-tested and available for purchase by almost everyone. The design makes it easy to maneuver on snow-covered tracks of any density.

See also the video selection of walking cross-country skis for a beginner:

Also interesting

Filter

Ski production in Russia

We bring to the attention of wholesale buyers the catalog "". The list for 2020 includes 6 domestic brands. Companies and factories-suppliers offer cooperation to dealers and wholesalers from Russia, the CIS. Sale of goods in bulk at a reduced price. Deliveries directly from production.

Ski production in Russia is based in the Moscow region (Moscow), Kaluga and Vladimir regions. Enterprises produce skis and ski equipment for children, professional sports and an assortment for skiing enthusiasts on the Russian market.

Production of kits on high-tech equipment of domestic and foreign production. The latest product development technologies are involved in the manufacture. Manufacturing firms and factories make models from durable certified materials. In addition, factories offer ski poles, mounts for running, sports and walking models, covers, slip lubricants, etc.

To buy products directly from the production, contact the managers of the organizations on the exhibition website or through the official website of the manufacturers' online store (see the Contacts tab in the expositions). Price lists and delivery terms will be sent by the manager upon request.

Updated: 09/10/2018 23:50:55

Judge: Boris Mendel

*Overview of the best in the opinion of the editors of the site. About selection criteria. This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The onset of cold weather in no way means that you need to sit at home, because winter provides a lot of opportunities to actively relax. It is this pastime that allows you to keep the body in shape, strengthen the immune system, and get a good mood. Skiing is a favorite form of recreation for Russians, since winters in many cities are quite cold, with a lot of snow, especially in the countryside. You can go there on your own or with the whole family. In today's material, we will talk about cross-country skiing with skating, decide on the types of products and how to choose the right model. Skating is a step that is similar to speed skating. With it, during repulsion, the inside of the skis is used. It is important to know all the subtleties and nuances so as not to make a mistake when making a purchase.

Our experts have carefully analyzed the sports equipment market and prepared an up-to-date rating that includes the 5 best skate skis.

What to look for when choosing skate skis

1. Production material. There are two main types: wooden and plastic. The first option has only one advantage - low cost. That is why experts recommend such models to beginners so that they get comfortable before buying more professional models. The second option has a whole range of advantages: durability, strength, rapid development of high speed, no risk of delamination and changes in properties upon repeated contact with water. True, even simple models of plastic skating skis cost decently.
2. Rigidity. Unlike classic skis, skate skis are more rigid. There are two options for checking this parameter. If you are allowed in the store, then set the skis on a hard surface, then stand on them, evenly distributing your weight. After that, take a regular paper sheet, measuring the gap in front and behind between the floor and the ski. It should be up to 40 and 15 cm, respectively. Having transferred all the weight to one ski, the clearance should decrease in front and behind by 10 cm, while ending before the heel of the boot. There is an easier way, which does not require the permission of the seller. To do this, set the skis vertically, attaching one sliding surface to the other, then fix your hands on the blocks and squeeze them tightly. The clearance should be 4 mm. It is this rigidity that skate skis are needed for. If the clearance is 2 mm, then the model is too soft for you.
3. Length. It is shorter than the classic ones. In this case, the noses of the skis will not be bent, but even. When choosing a length for height, proceed from the rule that says that the product should be 10 cm higher than the skater. To determine, you should lean the skis against you directly in the store, asking the sales assistant to measure the difference.
4. Personal preferences. This is an important choice parameter, because it is the skier who should feel comfortable, since he will have to ski many kilometers of snowy slopes.
5. Place of purchase. Refuse to purchase skating skis sold in ordinary hypermarkets. Your best bet is to go to a professional sports shop where trained sales assistants will advise you on which model will be the most suitable. Also pay attention to the brand, because the large ones have already proven themselves, therefore, when buying such skis, you can not worry that the money will be wasted.

Rating of the best skate skis

In the first place in the ranking are skating skis with high performance and manufacturability. The model combines light weight and power. The carbon construction ensures optimal transmission of the forces of the legs in relation to the snow. Thanks to its low weight, maximum acceleration and easy glide are guaranteed. Torsional stiffness is increased by 20 percent with a 45-degree carbon braid. This affects the improvement of stability and glide.

Advantages

• Nomex core;
• high rigidity;
• plastic model;
• height - 192 cm;
• 5 colors to choose from.

disadvantages

• suitable only for athletes with an "expert / professional" level of training;
• high cost - 20500 r.

The second line is given to skating cross-country skis, which have a high glide quality. They are stable during movement due to the responsive pad, which is low-lying. The model handles well, even if the rider makes mistakes in the course. The product will be an ideal option for improving the technique of skating. After the level of skill increases, you will not have to purchase new skis, since this model has significant potential.

Advantages

• Densolite 2000 core;
• reinforced block;
• reduced risk of incorrect installation of fasteners;
• do not require the use of conductors;
• height - 192 cm;
• suitable for beginners.

disadvantages

• relatively expensive - 10 thousand rubles.

The third position goes to skating skis, which are distinguished by reliability and versatility. Model with sporty geometry provides lightness and elegance of riding. Improved glide allows you to quickly accelerate to high speeds. The product has an optimal ratio of weight and strength. The pronounced sidecut makes the ski stable and manageable on the piste, while the flat profile allows for dynamic and confident pushes for long and smooth skiing.

Advantages

• core - High Densolite;
• suitable for beginners;
• new sporty design;
• acceptable cost - 7700 r.

disadvantages

• not found.

The fourth is amateur level skating. They are designed for skiing, not sporting events. They have high stability and excellent speed performance. The air channeled core reduces the weight of the skis and gives them extra strength. The model is distinguished by torsion rigidity and a long service life, as well as an optimal distribution of push forces, which affects the wear of the ointment - it becomes uniform.

Advantages

• wooden core - Air Channel;
• plastic model;
• excellent glide in various weather conditions;
• reinforced edges;
• height - 171 cm;
• budget cost - 5 thousand rubles.

disadvantages

• wood model.

Skiing as an element of entertainment, and later as a sports and competitive discipline, originated quite a long time ago. The idea of ​​creating more comfortable and narrow analogues of snowshoes for hunting needs was met with approval, and the world saw, in fact, the first coming of skis as a full-fledged equipment for practical use.

However, a truly powerful catalyst for the development of technologies for the production of ski paraphernalia was the inclusion of special disciplines in the winter sports program and the subsequent popularization of a healthy lifestyle through skiing.

Today, close competition takes place not only on the ski tracks and designated areas: far beyond their borders, there is an imperceptible for many struggle for superiority among manufacturing companies. A huge number of brands and trademarks claim a high place, but not everyone is given success. We have selected for you the top 10 cross-country ski manufacturers, divided into three thematic categories. Places in the ranking were distributed based on the following criteria:

• popularity of the company in Russia;
• the level of quality of the products sold;
• the width of the assortment presented in domestic stores;
• level of average cost;
• kit durability and wear resistance.

The best manufacturers of budget cross-country skis

5 ATEMI

The best choice for beginners
Country: Russia (produced in China)
Rating (2019): 4.5

ATEMI can be considered a manufacturer in name only. At its core, it is an online store that cooperates with Chinese enterprises and sells sports equipment under its own brand. Among the variety of products in the ATEMI catalog, there are exclusively cross-country skis designed for classic skiing and for amateur skiing.

One of the brightest representatives of the range is the ATEMI Escape series. The skis of this series are based on a lightweight (but, alas, not the most durable) core, “packed” in high-tech ABS plastic (an inexpensive material with balanced characteristics of strength, plasticity and hardness). The sliding surface is treated with extruded polyester, which provides not the fastest, but stable movement (very much depends on the method of lubrication). The cost of such a kit varies from 1200 to 1600 rubles, which is an excellent indicator for both beginners and avid skiers.

4 Larsen

The cheapest cross country skis
Country: Finland
Rating (2019): 4.5

The Finnish company Larsen is the most loyal manufacturer and supplier of cross-country skis, based on their level of cost. Almost all kits in its range are versatile and suitable for both skating and classic running, which is especially good for beginner athletes.

Many potential users ask quite a reasonable question about what quality assurance skis can offer, the cost of which barely exceeds a thousand rubles (and in some cases does not exceed this milestone at all). The fact is that no revolutionary technologies and developments are used in their manufacture, since Larsen adheres to a purely traditional approach to production. A standard wooden core is placed under the plastic body, which allows the ski to be lighter and more pliable for maneuvering. Extruded polyethylene is used as a sliding surface, the degree of sliding of which is highly dependent on the lubricant. All in all, Larsen skis are ideal for beginners whose main goal is to master the skills of running.

3 Northway

The best cross-country skis for the Russian climate
Country: Russia (produced in China)
Rating (2019): 4.6

The name is known to almost all the inhabitants of our vast country. Nordway is the own brand of the SportMaster chain of stores (read: companies), which produces a huge variety of goods.

Perhaps it is the above-mentioned fact that does not quite favorably affect the quality of individual ski sets, but the situation as a whole is compensated by the low price. The most popular children's skis in the Nordway range are hybrid cross-country models, oriented towards a combined skiing style. It is not possible to talk about any technological solutions in such a situation - everything was done with an eye on the old design school, albeit using modern materials. Whatever it was, but Nordway skis are certainly a means of mastering skiing skills and achieving a certain sports level. And given their suitability for operation in Russian climatic conditions, low cost and prevalence in the official distributor's chain of stores, such skis will be the best choice for young and beginner skiers.

2 TISA

Optimal combination of price and quality
Country: Austria
Rating (2019): 4.8

The company, whose period of wide popularity fell on the 60s of the last century. The reason for this is prosaic: almost the entire range of winter sports equipment available in Soviet stores consisted of sticks and skis of the TISA brand. Alas, with the advent of stronger opponents in the face of Fischer, Madshus and a number of other firms, TISA gradually lost its customer base and turned into a strong, but middle peasant in such a ruthless competitive segment. The sporty flagships of the company have been replaced by "peaceful" classic ski models such as the Adventure Step, Sport Wax and Classic Step.

Some domestic experts prefer to attribute TISA to the number of "folk" manufacturers, since most of the country's sports history and achievements were somehow connected with this company. In fact, the current brand is a kind of “restart” of the once existing factory, which has been officially owned by the well-known Austrian company Fischer since 1995. With such a strong technological base and rich history, TISA naturally gets the fourth place in the ranking of the best.

1 Dynamic

Best quality budget cross-country skiing
Country: France
Rating (2019): 4.9

Another good example of how a more popular brand is being released under a lesser known brand name to meet the needs of a wide user base. As in the case of TISA, backed by the Austrian company Fischer, Dynamic is a subsidiary of another large Austrian company - Atomic - and fully enjoys all the budget developments (as well as production lines) of a more eminent holder.

In domestic realities, in fact, only one model of cross-country skis is in great demand - Dynamic VR52 Grip, created specifically for beginner athletes. It is sharpened according to the classic course, it is distinguished by its lightweight design, functionality and relatively low cost. By the way, the latter quality applies to the entire range of the brand, which, coupled with high strength, only plays into the hands of consumers.

The best manufacturers of premium cross-country skis

5 Atomic

High quality products. Huge selection of skis for beginners
Country: Austria
Rating (2019): 4.6

Another Austrian manufacturer of cross-country skis, which is a leader in the category of equipment for young athletes. There are not so many obvious prerequisites for this: in addition to the high quality of the kits (which is true for "adult" models), only the price level is intended to attract the consumer, since everything is fine with Atomic's pricing policy.

All sets of skis for children are built on the basis of the same technology - High Densolite, indicating the presence in the skis of a core made of lightweight synthetic material. Also, almost all models have a redistributed mass balance due to the use of 3D Touring profiles, which improves handling and compensates for the energy consumption of auxiliary movements.

One of the highlights of the company is the ATOMIC RACE COMBI JUNIOR kit, built using a special Race profile to increase the effect of repulsion and increase stability when cornering. This is a technologically advanced and popular classic in Russia, suitable for children and teenagers up to 168 centimeters tall. The cost of RACE COMBI JUNIOR does not exceed 5.5 thousand rubles, which is a good price indicator.

4 Salomon

The best ski manufacturers for women
Country: France
Rating (2019): 4.7

The French company Salomon is a prominent representative of universal manufacturers focused on the production of sports equipment and professional winter equipment. Despite the fact that the brand's product range includes both snowboards and alpine skis of various designs, cross-country skis are traditionally a strong segment, inheriting classic features with an admixture of new technologies.

While other brands try to create a product based on one single concept, Salomon introduces several of its own developments into production at once, focusing primarily on the uniqueness of characteristics. Such a measure takes place, but some combinations give a completely unpredictable result.

An undoubted advantage of the company can be considered a focus on the beautiful part of the users experienced in sports. In the Salomon assortment there is a huge number of classic and amateur-level skating ski models, a prominent representative of which is the Salomon SNOWSCAPE 7 SIAM. The owners of these skis note the successful geometry, a somewhat unexpected but positive feeling caused by a shift in the center of gravity, optimal stiffness and dynamic performance, as well as a pleasantly low price.

3 Madshus

Popular manufacturer. Optimal reliability parameters
Country: Norway
Rating (2019): 4.7

A Norwegian brand, whose advertising was not so long ago flaunted on all TVs of a large country. As in the case of competing brands, the activity of this company is focused on the production of diversified products - from skis for slalom and ski jumping to cross-country skis for classics and skating. By the way, the latter have a very flexible division and are produced for different user groups: the more expensive ones are aimed at professional athletes (the enchanting Madshus Terrasonic Skate model can be noted among them), while the budget ones (such as the Madshus Intrasonic Classic) are suitable for beginners and intermediate level athletes. At the same time, it cannot be said that the price characteristic has a very strong effect on the quality indicators of products. Yes, technologies of various complexity are used, but from the point of view of reliability during operation, they do not solve so much.

If everything is clear with cross-country skiing for beginners, then professional ones raise some questions regarding the results given out by athletes. Many users notice that the speed characteristics of skis are highly dependent on the correct application of lubrication, and all - even minor - inaccuracies are automatically shifted to the athlete's physical qualities.

2 Rossignol

Proven manufacturer. High quality of products
Country: France
Rating (2019): 4.8

One of the world's oldest ski brands, whose history has crossed the line of one century. Rossignol is a premium manufacturer of winter sports equipment, the first to master the technology of making skis based on carbon and polymer plastic. Not resting on its laurels, the French company is constantly looking to improve its already wonderful series, for which it is awarded the highest places (not lower than second) in ratings of various levels and scales.

If you think more globally and discard the division of manufacturers into categories, then Rossignol is one of the few whose mountain and running series are practically not inferior to each other in the class. But since we have chosen the latter, we will follow a methodical story about it. And there really is a lot to talk about here. All cross-country ski sets have a base made of extra light aramid laminate, thanks to which a high degree of stability on diverse terrains is achieved, as well as good edging. The strength of the ski is provided by the use of a carbon layer right on top of the core and hard plastic right at the bottom of the product. Alas, all this splendor has one serious drawback: despite the brilliant performance, durability and quality, the cost of the kit seriously limits the circle of buyers.

1 Fischer

The best combination of price and quality
Country: Austria
Rating (2019): 4.9

On the first line of the rating is a well-known Austrian company, the first manufactured products of which were carts and winter sledges. As technology improved and consumer demands increased, the big bosses of the company realized that it was time to expand the range of manufactured goods, and in 1936 the first skis arrived on the shelves of sports equipment stores. The brand was slowly gaining popularity, but the world recognition had to wait for almost a whole century - this achievement was conquered by the Austrians only in 2006, when they were officially recognized as the best supplier of skis for the Olympic Games in Turin, Italy.

Despite the fact that the company's product range includes a huge number of alpine skis, including an outstanding series of equipment for sports slalom (namely, the RC4 Worldcup SC, developed in close cooperation with famous skiers), it is the cross-country sets that should be especially noted. The manufacturing technology of each individual series is distinguished by a dizzying variety: here the stiffeners are reinforced with titanium, and the nose is covered with carbon, and even the core is made in a very intricate form. The cost of Fischer skis is far from the budget, but it is fully justified by the high quality and durability.

Everything for those who dream of skiing in the nearest park on flat snow or ski tracks.

What are cross country skiing

Cross-country skiing is divided into racing, amateur and tourist. As a rule, the purpose is indicated in the product card.

1. Racing (marked Racing and Racing PRO). Such skis are designed for athletes and amateurs who want to develop speed indicators. This is an option for specially prepared tracks.
2. Amateur or pleasure (Active, Fitness). This is an option for those who sometimes choose to ride in the park, do it for fun and do not strive for records. Skis are slightly wider than racing skis; expensive materials and technologies are rarely used in their production.
3. Tourist (Back Country). These are skis for hunters, tourists and fishermen, people who need to move around, without a track or a ski track. Such skis are much wider than recreational ones in order to support the weight of a person on loose snow.

Skis

Classic skis (designation Classic or Cl) are longer than skate skis, have a sharp toe and a soft block. There may be notches under the last (designation TR) that prevent slipping during take-off. On the left - a ski with notches, on the right - without.

If the ski does not have notches (WAX designation), a special ointment provides an anti-slip effect. However, beginners will find it quite difficult to apply it correctly, so a notched ski is the best option.

To choose the size of classic skis, add 20 cm to your height or simply raise your hand: the lowered palm of the outstretched hand should touch the top of the ski.

It is also worth paying attention to the stiffness of the skis. First determine the center of gravity: put the ski on your hand so that both ends are in balance. Then fold the skis with the sliding side towards each other and squeeze with one hand 3 cm below the found center of balance. There will be a distance of 1–1.5 mm between skis of suitable stiffness.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for classic skis are low and soft, without special inserts that fix the leg.

You don't have to buy boots. If the thumb rests on the toe of the boot, the foot will quickly freeze. It is better to take shoes half a size larger.

What to buy

Sticks

When choosing sticks for classic skiing, pay attention to their length. With short ones, it will be inconvenient for you to walk on flat terrain, with long ones, it will be inconvenient to climb slopes. Choose sticks according to your height: the lanyard outlet (the place where the strap is attached to the stick) should be at the level of your shoulder.

Sticks are made from aluminum, fiberglass and carbon fiber. Aluminum can bend under load. So, if you weigh a lot, choose glass and carbon fiber. The latter provides the greatest rigidity and lightness of the sticks. These sticks are used by professional athletes.

Also pay attention to the material of the handle. Sticks with a cork handle are well suited for walking in cold weather: the cork does not cool the hand, unlike plastic.

Skis

Skis for skating (designation Skate or Sk) are shorter and have a smooth block, since with this course the notches only interfere, clinging to the snow and reducing speed.

To find the ideal length for skating, add 5-10 cm to your height.

It is also worth checking the stiffness of the skis. The gap between the skis compressed with one hand should be 1.5–2 mm.

What to buy

Boots

To prevent injuries and excessive stress on the foot during skating, additional fixation is needed. Therefore, skating boots are taller and stiffer than classic ones and are complemented by a special plastic cuff.

What to buy

Sticks

Skating poles are longer than classic ones. The lanyard should be at the level of the chin or lips of the skier.

How to choose universal skis, boots and poles

If you plan to master both classic and skating, you can purchase universal equipment.

Skis

Universal skis (Combi designation) are longer than skate skis, but shorter than classic ones. To determine the correct length, add 15 cm to your height.

As for notches, some all-purpose skis have a replaceable middle: if you want to ride in a classic style, use notches; if in a ridge, remove the notched nozzle.

What to buy

Boots

Boots for universal skis are almost the same as classic ones. They are just as soft and flexible, but have a plastic cuff that supports the ankle.

What to buy

Sticks

For universal skis, poles are suitable for both classic and skating.

What are fasteners

Three types of mounts are now common: the outdated NN 75, NNN (with or without the NIS platform) and SNS.

Surely many remember this mount from childhood. This is an ordinary metal brace that fixes the leg, but it does it quite badly.

It is almost impossible to skate with the NN 75. In addition, good boots for this mount are not produced. The only advantage is the low price.

What to buy

NNN (New Nordic Norm)

This mount consists of two guides (flexors) located at some distance
apart, and a rubber stop.

There are two options for such mounts: automatic and mechanical. The NNN's automatic fastening latches with a simple push of the boot on the brace. In the case of a mechanical one, you will have to open the lid with your hands, and after installing the boot, close it.

However, the mechanical fastening is more reliable: it cannot accidentally come unfastened, for example, during a fall. Also, if you're planning on skiing in warmer weather, water that gets into the automatic binding can freeze and block it.

Also, fasteners differ in the degree of rigidity. If the NNN rubber stop is white, the mount is designed for hard riding, if it is green, for softer riding. Black stops are suitable for standard skiing, and red ones for soft skiing.

If you prefer skating, choose bindings with white or green elastic bands. If classic - with black or red.

To install NNN on skis, you need to find the center of gravity and drill a hole for the mounts. However, there is an easier and more convenient method of installation: special NIS platforms.

The Nordic Integrated System (NIS) was developed in 2005 for NNN mounts. Skis adapted to NIS are equipped with a special plate on which the mount is installed. Skis do not need to be drilled, just slide the mount along the guide plates and snap into place.

The mount is easy to install and remove, eliminates the search for the center of gravity of the ski and can be used with different pairs of skis.

What to buy

This is a mount with one wide rail and two brackets. SNS mounts are also divided into automatic and mechanical.

Unlike NNN, SNS has only three levels of hardness. They are marked with a numerical value and a color. For a classic ride, you should choose bindings with a flexor hardness of 85 (yellow), for skating - 115 (red), and for universal use - 95 (pink).

In terms of comfort, stability and lateral stability, there is little difference between SNS and NNN mounts.

Most cross country ski boots are designed with some type of binding. Therefore, first choose shoes that fit perfectly on your foot, and only then the bindings suitable for them.

Due to the NIS, NNN fasteners are more convenient to install, but SNS are more stable: due to the platform, NNNs are higher than SNS screwed on. On the other hand, a higher position increases the force of the push. In general, both bindings are used by both amateurs and professional athletes.

What to buy

What materials to choose

Skis made from solid timber or glued layers of wood are a thing of the past. In modern models, wood is also used, but, as a rule, the core consists of it, and the sliding surface is made of plastic.

If you're used to skiing with a wooden base, the plastic can feel uncomfortable due to the recoil. Plastic is more slippery and, unlike wood, does not “dislodge” when rubbing against snow.

However, with proper lubrication of plastic skis, it is quite possible to avoid kickback. As for the benefits, plastic skis are more durable and, unlike wooden ones, allow you to ski in positive temperatures.

According to the manufacturing method, skis are divided into Sandwich and Cap. The former are several glued layers of plastic and wood, the latter are a wooden core with a monolithic plastic cover.

For cheaper skis, the core is made of wood with air channels. In professional and more expensive ones, it is a wooden honeycomb or is made on the basis of acrylic foam with a carbon and fiberglass mesh, lightweight polyurethane foam with carbon and fiberglass inserts (Polycell technology), Densolite foam or other lightweight synthetic materials.

The sliding surface is made of different types of plastic. For cheaper options, extruded plastic is used, for more expensive options, high molecular weight universal plastic is used.

Many new technologies and materials are now being used to keep skis light and at the same time provide strength. However, all this comes at a price.

Therefore, if you are a beginner, it is worth trying regular skis with a core made of wood or Densolite foam and a base made of extruded or high molecular weight plastic. The price of such skis depends on the specific brand and ranges from 2,000 to 8,000 rubles.

Which brands to look out for

Among the well-known Russian manufacturers is the STC factory. She makes both racing and recreational Sable skis, fiberglass ski poles.

Professional models - with a honeycomb core and a sliding surface PTEX 2000 (carbon fiber), and amateur models - with a wooden core and a plastic coating. Skis are made using Cap technology and are sold at very affordable prices.

Among foreign brands (whose products are often produced in Russian factories, including STC), the Austrian manufacturer of skis and equipment Fischer is quite popular.

Fischer produces men's, women's and children's professional and amateur skis, using combined materials such as a wooden core with Air Tec Basalight basalt fibers. Fischer skis can be bought at a price of 5,000 rubles.

No less famous is the French ski brand Rossignol, whose production is located in Spain and Ukraine. The cheapest amateur skis with a light wood core and a plastic sliding surface can be bought for 5,500–6,000 rubles. Almost all skis of this brand are equipped with the NIS platform.

The third brand from the rating is the Norwegian company Madshus. Amateur skis of this brand are made using Cap technology with a core of wood with channels, glass and carbon fiber braid and a plastic base. The cost of the cheapest skis of this brand is 3,000–5,000 rubles.

Approximately in the same price category, the cheapest amateur skis are the Austrian brand Atomic and the French company Salomon. Cheaper Salomon models have a Densolite dry foam core and a graphite base, while more expensive professional models have honeycomb cores and a zeolite base.

Each brand develops its own technologies: lighter cores, adding various minerals to improve glide, changing ski geometry. Therefore, it is best to focus on the purpose of the skis (for which course, pleasure or sports) and the availability of a length and stiffness suitable for you.

Note! You can buy the skis and equipment presented in the article cheaper if you use the special section of Lifehacker.