Cross-country Skiing? The Low-cost Way

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If you wish, you can also sandpaper the tops and sides of your skis and finish them with a coat or two of marine varnish for an attractive appearance.

The only bindings practical for use with the wider touring skis are of the cable variety. Often, used skis come with satisfactory fastenings already attached. If you aren't so fortunate, look first for used bindings (the old Northland brand, for instance) and then—if nothing turns up—investigate new cable touring types such as the Jofab.

The binding's toe assembly should adjust to 'Cradle the toe of your boot snugly . . . but at the same time, the cable arrangement should allow free vertical movement of the heel. If there are cable guides on the skis, they should be ahead of the spot where the ball of your foot will rest. In case they're mounted behind that point, remove or relocate them, Under no conditions should you use cable guides to lock your heels down, even for short downhill runs. Since touring bindings are not built to release under stress, such a practice is a very good way to break a leg.

Anyone who says you need special boots to go cross-country skiing is probably trying to sell footwear. Almost any good-quality hiking or work boots, treated with a wax-type leather conditioner, can be made to work quite well in most cable touring bindings. They also provide more warmth than the average commercial gear, and are better for wearing off the skis while in camp. The trick in getting good performance out of them is to play with the adjustments on the binding's toepiece until you get a close fit that holds the boot in line with the ski.

Touring poles should be as light and as strong as possible, and long enough to reach from the floor to your armpits. If skiing in soft snow is anticipated, the baskets should be somewhat larger than normal. New poles can be purchased at a reasonable price, but used ones cost still less.

To obtain your cross-country wardrobe, check the Goodwill store for lightweight woolen clothing. Wool is best because it's somewhat water-repellent and retains its warmth when wet. Cross-country skiers dress in layers and frequently put on or take off a garment or two to avoid getting too hot or cold. Thus a heavy parka would be inappropriate, except for use in camp. Several wool shirts or sweaters would be more suitable on the trail.

If you desire a pair of knickers, you can make them from men's lightweight woolen dress slacks, available cheap at Goodwill. Gaiters are helpful accessories for all skiers, and are a necessity for anyone whose boot tops don't fit snugly. They can be made from waterproofed nylon fabric . . . with elastic sewn in channels around the top and bottom, and elastic straps to fit under the boot.

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