The choice of running is not just about what model you like. The right choice of running has to match your sports ambitions, technical level, physical condition and driving style. The wrong choice can make the driving uncomfortable - the right choice makes it a pure joy.
1) Set your sports goals
First, ask yourself: How often and with what purpose do I want to run?
Category of running | Who are they suitable for | Characteristics | Practical recommendations |
Performance (race) | Racers, athletes with ambition | Extremely light, stiff, with excellent slide | They require perfect technique and regular training |
Sports | Advanced and active recreational skiers | Performance-stability compromise | Great for training and fitness 2-3 times a week |
Tourist (hobby) | Beginners, casual athletes | Stable, softer, tolerant of errors | Ideal for quiet trips and first experiences |
Combined (combi) | Unreserved runners | Allows the classic and basic skating | For occasional use only - not ideal for technique |
💡 Practice tip:If you plan to travel more often, is worth investing in better sports modelsThey can last longer than tourists, they slide better and move your technique further.
2 TERM Driving style: Classic or Skate?
Decision between Classic style a skating (skate) is crucial. Each requires different equipment and technology.
Classic style
Movement in the milling track, length of runs 20-30 cm longer than the figure.
Using Retro-reflecting zone (waxing or skin).
Benefits | The disadvantages |
Easier to learn | Need to properly lubricate the reflection zone (for wax models) |
Ideal for tourists and beginners | Less suitable off-modified track |
Quiet rhythm, lower physical intensity | Requires regular maintenance of the slide |
💡 Tip: They're ideal for beginners Skin runners - have a reflective belt from a mothballing and do not require lubrication.
Skate (skating)
Riding the wider tracks, short and harder runs.
It requires more strength and coordination.
Benefits | The disadvantages |
Faster and more dynamic ride | Requires a modified track without classic tracks |
Excellent fitness training | Technically more demanding |
Without lubrication of the reflection zone | Less suitable for complete beginners |
💡 Practice tip: If you are switching from classic to skate, start with soft skate skis a longer sticks (10 cm higher than classical).
3-Key parameters for selection of runs
Parameter | Classic style | Skate style | Practical Board |
Length | Height of figure + 20-30 cm | Height + 5-15 cm | Higher weight = Select longer runways |
Hardness (flex) | Soft for beginners | Harder for reflection and stability | Verify "paper test" - the cross-country runner is only to be partially touched by snow when loaded |
Weight of running | Medium to light | Lighter = better slide | Not always "the lighter, the better" - the balance is important |
Slides | Universal (PE) or racing (with higher density) | Racing structure | For recreational purposes, standard slide with universal wax is sufficient |
4-way to choose the correct running length
Height of character (cm) | Classic (cm) | Skate (cm) |
160 | 180–190 | 170–180 |
170 | 190–200 | 180–185 |
180 | 200–210 | 185–190 |
190 | 210–215 | 190–195 |
💡 Tip: Always consult the dealer for the length of the runs - the brands have different hardness and recommendations according to weight.
5 ITEM Hole and shoes - often neglected but essential
Equipment | Classic | Skate | Recommendations |
Cane | height × 0,83 | height × 0,90 | Lighter carbon sticks = less hand fatigue |
Shoes | Soft sole, elasticity in bending | Harder, higher ankle | Select the same mark as the binding (IUN / Prolink / CIS) |
Binding | Flexible, with a reflection zone | Harder flexor | Compatibility with the brand of shoes is necessary! |
6 • Practical advice of experienced runner
✅ Try the snow running - most stores or centres allow testing of different types. ✅ Don't underestimate service. - a well-prepared slide will do more than an expensive model. ✅ Start simply - You'd rather have stable runways that forgive mistakes than racing that punish you. ✅ Buy with respect to weight and technique, not just height.
Summary: How to choose the right runways
Type of runner | Style | Recommended runways | Note |
Beginner | Classic | Tourist or Skin | Stable, easy to drive |
Vacation athlete | Classic / Skate | Sports | Better slide, less weight |
The performance rider | Skate | Race | They require precise technique. |
Universal / tourist | Combined | Combi runways | For occasional use only |
💬 In conclusion: The right choice of runs is not just about parameters - it's about what snow experience You want to. If you are clear in style and goals, the cross-country runs can bring you not only great training, but also perfect peace in nature.