Discussing My Backcountry XC Skis and Philosophy for Backcountry Cross-Country Skiing

Please note that this is not a traditional gear review. In this discussion, I describe the backcountry cross-country skis and bindings that I use off-trail and off-track. I also offer my thoughts and philosophy regarding backcountry cross-country skiing (and why I use the gear that I use). In-between my discussion, I've included some clips of me skiing in the Lake Tahoe backcountry to either illustrate the points that I'm trying to make or simply for amusement.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:36 Focus on Principles
1:01 Litmus Test for Selecting Ski Width
1:20 Choose Ski Length Based on Body Weight
2:04 Types of Grip Zones
6:34 My Quiver of Backcountry XC Skis
11:25 Ski Characteristics That I Prefer
12:25 Metal Edges
13:38 Types of Bindings
15:52 Center Groove
17:02 Parting Thoughts
19:59 Outro/Credits

In the future I will round out this mini-series with a video about the backcountry cross-country ski boots that I wear. In the meantime, here's a video that I created about the ski poles that I use when xc skiing in the backcountry.

   • Choosing the Correct Length of Classic Cro...  

This is an article I wrote espousing the merits of learning technique (over buying more xc ski gear).

https://tahoetrailguide.com/invest-in...

Here's a complimentary article that I wrote about backcountry cross-country ski gear.

https://tahoetrailguide.com/overview-...

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Please note that I produced my series of articles and videos tagged “Cross-Country Skiing Explained” with the beginner or intermediate cross-country skier in mind. Therefore, I don’t intend to address racing-oriented philosophy, technique, or gear selection.

Classic Cross-Country Ski Components (articles at Tahoe Trail Guide):

Introduction to Classic Cross-Country Skis (Part 1)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Geometry of Classic Cross-Country Skis (Part 2)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

The Grip Zone of Classic Cross-Country Skis (Part 3)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Types of Bindings for Classic Cross-Country Skiing (Part 4)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Ski Boots for Classic Cross-Country Skiing (Part 5)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Classic Cross-Country Ski Poles (Part 6)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

FAQs about Classic Cross-Country Skiing
https://tahoetrailguide.com/faqs-abou...

Waxing Your “Waxless” Cross-Country Skis (for beginner and intermediate xc skiers):

Introduction to Waxing Your Waxless XC Skis
https://tahoetrailguide.com/waxing-yo...

Step-by-Step Waxing Tutorial
https://tahoetrailguide.com/waxing-yo...

FAQs About Waxing Your Waxless XC Skis
https://tahoetrailguide.com/faqs-abou...

Considerations for buying cross-country ski gear (new and beginner xc skiers):

Buying Cross-Country Ski Gear, for Beginners (Part 1)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/buying-cr...

I've produced this collection of articles and videos about backcountry travel and exploration with the beginner and intermediate adventurer in mind. This is the demographic for whom I most often served while working in the Lake Tahoe outdoor recreation industry. In essence, these informational projects I create and publish are extensions of the many conversations we've had over the years.

Please note that, although I encourage you to venture out of your comfort zone, you need to know your limits and when to turn back. Tahoe Trail Guide and its contributors are not liable for property loss or damage, personal injury, or death. Always consult multiple sources when venturing into the backcountry. Always be prepared for the worst case scenario. Your safety is your responsibility.

Copyright © 2022 Jared Manninen

For more information, visit… https://TahoeTrailGuide.com