Inspired by the Swedish gold medals in cross-country and thinking of getting out on those planks? Don't want to invest in expensive equipment? You don ´t have to spend a fortune on equipment and clothes. We draw on the expertise of Jan Martinsson who equips hundreds of people on a daily basis at the height of the skiing season in Fjätervålen, Sweden. We also hear from the Swedish postal service, which often relies on bicycle riders for local delivery, for some tips on staying comforable outdoors during the winter season.
Skis
If you´re hitting pre-prepared tracks or a fairly flat terrain for the first time you´ll want to go for waxless skis which require some maintenance, but not to the extent that skis requiring waxing for glide do. In general, if you are a beginner or a casual skier, you´ll want to go for waxless skis (which constitute the majority of cross-country skis sold today). Make sure you keep the grip portion of your ski clean and, if you want more glide than you´ve already got plus you´d like to avoid snow sticking to your skis, apply a liquid ski wax (glide wax) to the entire base of the ski only once. The length of the ski should be approximately 2.6 x your height in inches plus 63.5 cm (25 inches). Standard width is 5 cm (just under 2 inches). Wider skis give you more stability off the beaten path, but this is not something you should be thinking about as a beginner.
Boots
Seek out boots that have a high cut to give you support around your ankles. To avoid freezing toes you´ll want boots with woollen or other thermal lining at the inside toe end of the boot.
Poles Your poles should be shoulder height with a good grip at the top and loops that you can put your hands through so that you don´t lose your poles while skiing.
Backpack with refreshments Don´t forget a comfortable, snug-fitting, no-fuss backpack for carrying along fresh water, a thermos, snacks, and a waterproof mat to sit on. Back packs made for long-distance runners which are light and close-fitting are easiest. Take a back pack even if you are not planning a snack break. Having fresh water along is always a good idea, as is the space for storing your outer layer of clothes if you heat up too much.
You should be able to pick up this gear brand new for less than USD 200 and for much less second-hand.
Clothes Think three layers: Although it might sound itchy, you need a thin woollen layer nearest your body. Wool absorbs sweat and keeps you dry longest of all fabrics. You might leave home freezing but you are guaranteed to be up in a sweat within five minutes of medium exertion. Despair not! With today´s wool technology, comfortable woollen mix undergarments are widely available. A long-sleeved shirt and long-johns are best. A fleece jacket and cotton-polyester trousers keep the warmth in and transport moisture out to the next layer. Thick, wind- and waterproof jackets and trousers protect you from the elements. Don´t forget a woollen or woollen mix hat and thermal wind- and waterproof gloves.s.se.
An estimated 20,000 people take place in the annual cross-country Vasaloppet Race in Sweden. Anyone can join by registering. A sister race is held in Mora, Minnesota annually. Learn more about it!
Inspired by the Swedish gold medals in cross-country and thinking of getting out on those planks? Don't want to invest in expensive equipment? You don ´t have to spend a fortune on equipment and clothes. We draw on the expertise of Jan Martinsson who equips hundreds of people on a daily basis at the height of the skiing season in 
today). Make sure you keep the grip portion of your ski clean and, if you want more glide than you´ve already got plus you´d like to avoid snow sticking to your skis, apply a liquid ski wax (glide wax) to the entire base of the ski only once. The length of the ski should be approximately 2.6 x your height in inches plus 63.5 cm (25 inches). Standard width is 5 cm (just under 2 inches). Wider skis give you more stability off the beaten path, but this is not something you should be thinking about as a beginner.
Don´t forget a comfortable, snug-fitting, no-fuss backpack for carrying along fresh water, a thermos, snacks, and a waterproof mat to sit on. Back packs made for long-distance runners which are light and close-fitting are easiest. Take a back pack even if you are not planning a snack break. Having fresh water along is always a good idea, as is the space for storing your outer layer of clothes if you heat up too much.
