|
|
 |
| Parent's Pages |
Genesee Valley
Bill Koch
Youth Skiing |
|
- Updated 19Nov07 -
Skier & Parent Readiness Preparation
- Personal Readiness
- Fuel & Hydration - Children and parents alike need be properly fueled for xc skiing. A well-balanced meal 2-4 hours before skiing is ideal. Also consider a snack of complex carbohydrates before venturing on the trail and again right after to replace the energy used. Keep everyone hydrated with water before, during and after skiing. "Gatorade" type drinks are only needed during ski tours longer than an hour or so duration. Consider carrying water with you while skiing; fanny-pack bottle holders work well for skiing.
- Fitness - Basic overall fitness and flexibility are essential to get maximum enjoyment from XC skiing. Consider pre-season family hiking sessions on some of the trails we ski to assure the children are ready. Using classic ski poles while hiking is great. For those so inclined, trail runs with breaks are great. We will teach the children basic stretching routines during our practices but you can start at home too.
- Equipment & Clothing Info/Recommendations
- Ski Equipment
- Basic Equipment Needs Summary - The Skier Group document describes the basic equipment needs for the children by group. Bobcats and Sno Monkeys will use classic technique almost exclusively; light touring no-wax skis with touring boots and poles are fine. Sno Leopards and Cheetahs will need equipment that allows for both classic and skating (freestyle) techniques. There are several ways to accomplish this; most versatile way is for a pair of light touring no-wax skis for classic touring and combi skis for skating and classic racing. For maximum performance, seperate racing skis for skating and classic are required. For those doing both classic and skate, it is also desirable to have different length poles for each as skating works best with longer poles. This year's skating poles will work for classic in two years. Contact us as needed to help your selection process.
- Binding Norms - There are currently two competing standard boot/binding systems in XC; Salomon Profil and New Nordic Norm (NNN). The systems are similar in design and both work fine for our needs. Factors to consider when choosing a system include availability, boot fit and having the ability to hand down equipment to younger skiers.
- Classic vs Skate vs Combi Skis - Classic skis come in wax and no-wax configurations on touring, light touring and racing models. They tend to be longer than skate skis and have an 'arch' or camber' in the middle that keeps the no-wax pattern or grip wax off the snow while gliding. Note that it is not desirable to skate ski on no-wax classic skis, as the no-wax pattern tends to drag on the snow during push off. Skate skis are shorter with a stiffer/flatter camber and are easier to control out of a set classic ski tracks while skating. Combi skis are usually stiffened classic skis with shorter tips. They work OK for most GVBKYS skiers for both techniques but are more difficult to maintain, as any classic grip wax needs to be removed prior to skating on them. Skate and combi skis to not come in no-wax configurations; skate skis do come in sport and racing models. No-wax skis don't require grip wax, but DO need periodic cleaning and glide waxing to assure good glide and minimal snow buildup. No-wax skis also work best with an application of paste-type glide was on the no-wax pattern to prevent snow buildup, especially with temps near freezing.
- Sizing Skis, Poles and Boots
- Skis and poles are typically sized for children based on height. For heavier kids and adults skier weight is also considered; for racing equipment weight is the most critical factor (your ski supplier can help in this case). For children, especially beginners, it is usually best to size at the recommended length or less. However, skis too short will have dissapointing glide characteristics.
- Skate ski sizing is typically 5 to 15 centimeters longer than skier height; use this for combi skis too.
- Classic ski sizing is typically 10 to 20 cm longer than skier height.
- Classic poles should come up tight to a skiers armpit when standing in ski boots. Skate poles up to mouth level.
- Boots should be sized to make sure the toes can wiggle but the fit in the heal area is snug. Consider models with a cover over any laces to keep the snow out. Older children who are skating can benefit from a boot with a supporting cuff, usually with a velcro closure.
- What Quality/Cost Level Do I Buy?
- In general, with ski equipment, you get what you pay for. It is better to search for a good price on a quality, name brand product than to purchase off-brand. Previous year models are sometimes on sale. Take advantage of GVBKYS Team Pricing as applicable. Old style 3-pin binding systems are generally not recommended as they offer far less control and are more difficult to put the skis on. For no-wax skis, consider models with the pattern cut not molded in. Black or clear bases (not white plastic) are best. Both aluminum and fiberglass poles are OK; poles with baskets on one side (not round) are best.
- Where to Buy?
- Local Stores:
- Park Ave Bikeshop is the only local XC specialty store. They have special pre-season team pricing for GVBKYS. Some products also available by internet sales.
- Ski Company usually has a selection of touring equipment for parents and children. They are considering increasing XC lineup pending the success of Bristol Mountain.
- SNOW is a new store (Oct07) that plans on carrying a line of quality XC touring and racing equipment. We have not yet been to the new store to verify inventory. Website link NA.
- EMS carries touring and backcountry equipment and is expanding offerings at the new Pittsford Store.
- RVE carries touring skis.
- Internet Stores:
- Accessories - You should consider the following accessories; ski bag, ski ties, paste wax, grip waxes, glide waxes and wax application tools.
- Clothing
|
| |
|
|
|
|
