Now that we have our second year of cross-country skiing under our belt, I can say with 100% confidence that we love cross-country skiing! I grew up x-c skiing in gym class (that’s upstate New York for you) but hadn’t picked it up as an adult until last year. Having a winter activity makes brutally cold weekends so much more fun!
Why am I telling you this now? When we’re getting our first glimmers of spring? It’s not because I am disorganized, but because now is the time all the equipment is on clearance. If you are interested in cross-country skiing next year, consider looking now!
When we first bought our skis I wasn’t quite sure what to wear to accommodate the cold weather and keep me the right temperature. I think I’ve got it figured out now – so I thought I’d share the wealth. Without further ado, what to wear when cross-country skiing:
This particular jacket is a North Face, I have an EMS. I love my fleece-lined soft shell jacket. It’s warm enough to keep me bundled (even on 0 degree days!) and the side ventilation zippers (basically a huge arm-pit zipper) easily let you cool down when you’re feeling too warm.
2. Ankle-Zip Water-Resistant Pants
You will want some type of water-resistant athletic pants. I recommend getting pants with zippers on the ankles so you can zip them down over your boots. These are Swix Universal Pants.
3. Ear Warmers – I made mine from this tutorial at Delia Creates
I prefer ear warmers or a headband to a hat, but maybe that’s just me. I usually don’t bother with a scarf or a heavy hat because you will be too warm! If it’s a particularly windy day I will bring a scarf to help block the wind from my face.
Whatever you do, don’t wear cotton! Cotton will soak up your sweat and then make you cold.
5. Women’s Rossignol® X5 FW Ski Boots
I have these boots from L.L. Bean and I love them! They are fleece lined, and have a top that zips together over the laces to prevent snow from getting inside. With these and my ankle-zip pants, I have never gotten snow inside my boots!
Under my water-resistant pants I wear fleece lined leggings for warmth. These shown are Anne Klein. I got mine from T.J. Maxx. (High heels optional – haha!)
7. SmartWool Snowflake Fair Isle Socks
Warm socks. Sometimes I double up. SmartWool socks are always great. Although not cheap.
8. Agloves ® Original Touchscreen Gloves
I have these smart phone gloves and I love them! They have metal strands knitted throughout the glove so there is no special touch-point on your fingertip. I am always whipping out my phone to take pictures of the beautiful snowy landscape, so I like to ski with these gloves on.
Do you cross-country ski? Any tips for me? I am still learning!
Kat Carlson Design 