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How to dress for classic cross-country skiing?
6 minutes
To make the most of your classic cross-country ski outings, be sure to dress according to the temperature and the intensity of your physical effort.
First of all, it is important to know that before you start your classic cross-country ski outing, it is very normal to be cold. As cross-country skiing is an aerobic sport, you will warm up quickly as your outing progresses.
If you are an occasional skier and practice cross-country skiing at low intensity, choose warm and comfortable clothing that will protect you from the wind, but without neglecting breathability.
If you are an expert skier and practice cross-country skiing at high intensity, equip yourself with light and breathable clothing that will regulate your body temperature and offer you freedom of movement.
1. THE UPPER BODY
For the upper body, start by putting on a fitted base layer made of synthetic fibers or merino wool, which will wick away moisture to keep you dry. Choose the thickness of the fabric depending on the outside temperature during your outing and the intensity of your activity.
Then continue with an outer layer of soft shell style that will protect you from snow and wind. Get a soft shell specifically designed for cross-country skiing with stretchable and breathable areas on the sides. Make sure that your outer layer fits comfortably over your base layer so you are not restricted in your movements.
For very cold days or if you are sensitive to the cold, add an insulating mid-layer in fleece or merino wool. It will help you retain your heat while allowing moisture to escape. Make sure this layer is not too thick. It should be worn comfortably under your coat.
2. THE LOWER BODY
For the lower body, if you're planning a high-intensity cross-country ski outing, opt for cross-country ski tights. These windproof tights in the front and breathable in the back will protect you from the elements while wicking away moisture to keep you dry.
For cold conditions or low-intensity outings, choose instead softshell cross-country ski pants, which are lightly insulated. In the front, these pants are designed with windproof and thick materials to protect you from the cold. In the back, they are made with a lighter and breathable fabric to let moisture escape. If you're prone to feeling cold, you can always add a base layer under your cross-country ski pants. Make sure this base layer is made of moisture-wicking materials like synthetic fabrics or merino wool.
3. ACCESSORIES
For your hands, get gloves or mittens. In cold weather, opt for mittens for more warmth. For very aerobic outings, choose gloves. Otherwise, you can always opt for three-finger gloves. This is a good compromise between mittens and gloves. Choose the thickness of your gloves according to the outside temperature and the intensity of your outing.
For your head, equip yourself with a toque or a headband. For high-intensity outings or for warmer days, opt for a thin toque or headband. For colder days, opt for a lined toque to keep you warm. Finally, don't forget a neck gaiter to protect you from the cold, wind and snow!
A favorite product for cross-country skiers is the Buff. This versatile, multifunctional neck gaiter is worn around the neck at the beginning of outings for added warmth. Once your outing is well underway and you start to get warm, you can transform it into a headband. It's a good compromise!
WHAT OTHER ESSENTIALS ARE THERE?
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A training watch and a heart rate monitor
- A hydration vest or belt with pockets
- Energy snacks
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