Which is better when skate/cross country skiing?

Question

Theoretically speaking, which person would have an advantage if they were in the same shape, same skis, etc: a taller person or a shorter person?

For instance, in swimming the taller person obviously has the advantage but I'm not sure if one would have an advantage in skate skiing (cross country skiing).

Thank you.

Answer 1

Since skate-skis are used on groomed surfaces, the skier with the longer stride will have the advantage. Given the muscle toning, skill level, equipment, etc etc. of each is the same and both skiers even push off their edges at the same time, then the skier with the longer legs will have the advantage. I say "longer legs" because you could have two skiers the same height and still get different results because one may have a shorter torso that the other.

Since there is no underbrush or tree limbs to dodge, there would be no advantage to being shorter.

Answer 2

The taller one would probably have a longer stride, and would be faster.  But the shorter one might slip through brush and overgrowth easier.  So it depends on what you mean by "better".

And if you mean who has better technique, then height is irrelevant.  Experience and training would rule.