Training for The Trail

[Mother Natures Son]

With all the snow on the ground (8"+) and more on the way, I've been Cross country Sking when I can. (So I can be in great shape for the AT) My question is this, with the deep snow, light duty, off track skis aren't cutting it. I saw some used Swiss Army, Cross Country/Alpine skis on many of military surplus web sites for $20.00 and was wondering if these skis are any good?

[mountain squid]

:-?hmmmmm . . . as far as "Training for The Trail" goes, why not just put your pack on and walk?

See you on the trail,
mt squid

[Pommes]

My dad uses them and loves them. However dont get them if you're a big boy. 220+

[Mags]

Do you have a link?

"Cross country skis" is such a huge umbrella... AT, telemark, backcountry, traditional crosscounry, waxless, waxable, edgeless..etc..etc..etc. Phew! :)

If you are not skiing in groomed areas (or something like a golf course) then Nordic backcountry skis with edges may help. For variable snow conditions and/or if you are a beginner, waxless fishscale skis are a good way to go.

Not sure of your terrain, but if it is mainly mellow rolling terrain in the woods (Which may be PA?) something like this category may help:
http://home.comcast.net/~pinnah/DirtbagPinner/bc-skis.html#TRAD (http://home.comcast.net/%7Epinnah/DirtbagPinner/bc-skis.html#TRAD)

Or this if you want to go into a more backcountry and hillier area and need more control (esp if you are new to skiing)
http://home.comcast.net/~pinnah/DirtbagPinner/bc-skis.html#COMPACTS (http://home.comcast.net/%7Epinnah/DirtbagPinner/bc-skis.html#COMPACTS)

(NOTE: As it has been pointed out to me, the exact ski model names are a little outdated..but the overall types are still very much accurate)

EDIT: Are they these?
http://store.colemans.com/cart/skis-swiss-army-p-1753.html?currency=USD

They look to be Randonee (Alpine Touring =AT) skis. WAY overkill for the skiing you want to do. Very heavy. The skis lock in the heel for descents ala alpine (downhill) skis. The skis are really meant for climbing up steeper terrain with skins, then skiing down. At the very least you'll need ski wax. For touring (covering distance), I think you are better off with a pair of Nordic backcountry skis. The price is great on the skis you found..but I think you'll find them very heavy and overkill.

Just my opinion anyway. :)



I don't know what the conditions are like in your neck of the woods vs. mine, so it is only basic advice! :)

IF you need more clarification and/or advice, let me know. I LOVE backcountry skiing. I am taking a personal day Monday and plan on winter camping Sun/Mon on skis...woo hoo!




Mtn Squid said: as far as "Training for The Trail" goes, why not just put your pack on and walk?

Because when there is snow on the ground, walking is not as easy. :) Snowshoes are slow and clunky. Cross-country skiing works every major muscle group and is perhaps the best all-around outdoor exercise you can do...AND IT IS FUN!

Good enough for me... ;)