Nooksack Nordic Ski Club Selecting XC Ski Gear for the Pacific Northwest

Choices, choices, choices... What type of ski should I buy?

Waxless classic skis Waxless classic skis with metal edges Waxable classic skis Skate skis What are my choices?

Advantages:  Relatively inexpensive  Can be used in warm and wet conditions (even when it’s raining).  New skiers can experience immediate success. Disadvantages:  Skis are relatively slow—especially in cold conditions. Waxless classic skis

Advantages:  Wide, stable ski that is good in icy conditions.  Can be used in warm and wet conditions (even when it’s raining).  New skiers can experience immediate success. Disadvantages:  Skis are very slow and heavy—it’s hard to maintain a nice, easy XC rhythm. Waxless classic skis with metal edges

Advantages:  Fast—especially in below 32° F conditions  Lighter weight—nice, sleek skis. Disadvantages:  Proper kick wax must be applied for existing snow conditions.  Uphill technique requires more practice to master. Waxable Classic Skis

Advantages:  Lighter weight—nice, sleek skis.  Stiff skis and boots allow for good control—especially going down hills.  Skating is the fastest and most efficient method of XC skiing. Disadvantages:  Technique requires more practice to master.  Skate ski packages tend to be a bit more expensive than classic gear. Skate Skis

Dress in lightweight layers. Wear lightweight synthetic long underwear on top and bottom (such as Smartwool or Capilene). A light, breathable shell and breathable wind pants work well together. (Many skiers wear some of the same gear that they use for biking.) Wool ski hat and medium weight gloves work well. Bring a Gortex rain jacket (just in case). What should I wear while skiing?

Fairhaven Bike and Ski ( REI ( Sportsmen’s Chalet ( Glacier Ski Shop ( ) Where can I rent or buy XC ski gear in and around Bellingham?

Sells classic (waxless and waxable) and skate skis. Rents classic and skate skis (generous 48-hour day and $40 of rental price may be applied toward purchase). Knowledgeable staff and excellent return policy. Will wax skis ($12/pair). Ski waxes, accessories, and clothing are available. Fairhaven Bike and Ski

Carries waxless classic skis with pre-mounted bindings. Has both NN bindings and Solomon pilot bindings. Complete packages (skis, bindings, boots, and poles) for under $300. Some staff members are knowledgeable about XC skis. Excellent return policy and ski accessories available. REI ml ml

Has a few pairs of skate skis for sale. Offers waxless classic skis for rent ($20/day and $72/week). Waxes skis for $10/pair. Knowledgeable staff. Sportsmen’s Chalet (

This shop has waxless classic skis for rent. Bindings on rental skis are 3-pin and boots are heavy backcountry style—best used off trail or on a heavy snow day when trails have not been groomed. Glacier Ski Shop (

Be sure to buy a Sno-park Pass from local vendors or online : Join the Nooksack Nordic Ski Club. Enjoy social gatherings, get ski tips and waxing help at our clinics, enjoy club trips to great ski venues, ride-share for local skiing, and more. Other things to know before you head out to ski...

Consider a trip with the club...