What would you recommend for a complete beginner interested in taking up cross-country skiing?

Question

What's the cheapest reasonable quality equipment one would need?

What do you need to know?

Answer 1

You can get basic used xc ski gear in good condition for maybe $50 or so.  Check the classified section of your newspaper, or ask at the outdoor stores in your area if there are any ski swaps coming up soon.  I just sold some downhill gear at a ski swap sponsored by a local high school ski team, and I saw some xc gear there.

If you go new, you can probably find packages with skis, boots, bindings, and poles for $200, maybe less.  The sales person should help you select gear that will fit you.  

XC skiing is great fun, and can be as much or little work as you want it to be.  It's a good way to get outside in the winter, to get some exercise, and to do something fun with others.  Have fun!

edit:

You can also rent skis in some areas.  This might be a good way to try skiing without laying out a lot of money.  

I would also either go with someone who knows what they are doing, or else take a lesson or two.  There are basic techniques that you should learn to ski well, and to be comfortable in the outdoors in the winter.  I would probably go with the waxless skis for your first time, as they will be easier to use, and let you concentrate on learning technique.  Later you can upgrade to waxed skis if you want.

Answer 2

I got started by buying some old garage sale 3 pin skis, boots and poles (this stuff goes cheap!). I found out I loved it so much I did not even know it was super exercise (it is the fountain of youth!).  It took a while (weeks ) to get comfortable with balance, and longer to learn to turn nicely, but that was just me , on my own, walking to the park across the street.

There are two types of skis; classic (which the type described above are of an old variety). For classic the skis pretty much stay parallel to each other as you move along.

The other type is  "Skate" where the ski is pushed diagonally behind you (like an ice skate). This is newer and typically used by racing or performance types. Skating only works on groomed (ie; compressed,flatted) trails. Classic can work anywhere.

An  OK new set of skis,boots,poles can be had for $100 or so for serviceable skis.  A big step up in quality will be around $200/ set. This would get you newer style bindings (the NNN type) instead of the older 3 pin.

If you know someone to loan you skis, give it a try!

gr

Answer 3

you should start by renting equipment until you know what works for you

Answer 4

For a beginner, I would suggest a Touring ski with a waxless base and an edge...especially if you plan to ski anywhere other than a ski touring place with groomed trails.

I personally like a higher boot with a 3-pin set up, but NNN boots and bindings are good too, especially when learning and on flat terrain. They are easy to get on and off. 3-pin bindings take a little more getting used to.

$200-$250 is a good price for an intro package...new and on sale. You should be able to get closeout stuff cheaper. Used will always be easier...try eBay.

I would not buy boots sight-unseen. Having sold XC ski boots, I can honestly say I've never seen a good conversion chart. I wear one size in Rossignol boots and another in Alpina and yet another in Karhu. A bad fitting boot will make you hate the sport and you'll feel like you just threw your money away. Try to get boots from a store or at least try them on in a store before shopping online for used ones.