Nordic Ski Accessories for Warmth, Comfort
Specialty Cold Weather Gear Makes Cross-Country Treks Feel Warmer
Jan 21, 2009
Winter accessories like hats, gloves, waist packs, chemical hand warmers, insulated water bottles, hydration systems, gaiters, and sunglasses make cold treks safer.
The basics of cross-country skiing are straightforward. There’s hardware - skis, bindings, poles, and boots. And software - i.e. clothing, which needs to be layered to do three jobs: wick moisture from the skin, insulate to retain warmth, and provide protection against wind and snow.
Beyond the basic skills and equipment, accessories can enhance safety and comfort. While a quick out and back on a rail-trail doesn’t require the same planning and gear as a multi-hour trek into the wilderness, any outing can be made more enjoyable with a few well-chosen pieces of gear.
Weather Protection and Comfort for Croiss-Country Skiers
- Gloves tend to get wet on cross country ski tours because skiers fall in the snow, and sometimes have to take skis on and off. An outer layer glove made of Gore-tex or another breathable water-resistant fabric, can be a good second layer for the hands, and can save the day when the first pair of gloves gets wet.
- A fleece hat is light and warm, and retains warmth even when wet. If it’s snowing, a fleece hat with a Gore-tex layer ads protection against the snow. A balaclava can keep the face and neck warm on frigid days.
- Chemical warmers are small packs about the size of a deck of cards, but thinner. They can be worn in a boot or tucked into gloves. Once activated, they last for several hours.
- Sun on winter snow can cause snow-blindness, which is actually a sunburn of the retina. Sunglasses are better than goggles for cross-country skiers because the exertion in cross country skier can cause the goggles to fog over. Glasses should provide complete protection – around the sides of the eyes as well as the front. Glacier glasses with leather side flaps are a good choice.
- Use sunscreen sunscreen for exposed skin, and lip balm with and SPF of at least 30.
- Gaiters are fabric (usually waterproof-breathable) coverings worn over the boots and lower leg. They attach to boots with a hook, and are then zipped or Velcroed in place. They keep snow out and heat in.
Food and Water for a Healthy Energetic Ski Outing
- Insulated water bottle covers keep warm drinks warm, or at least not freezing. A glass-lined thermos is not a good idea; if a skier falls on it, it could shatter.
- Hydration systems are used by endurance athletes to make it easy to drink while on the go. They are convenient, but in winter, they can be prone to freezing unless the temperatures are close to or above freezing. However, some manufacturers have made insulation for their hydration systems, which makes it possible to use them in very cold weather.
- Snacks for cold weather. Chewy snacks (like some high energy bars) can freeze so keep them in an inside pocket, or bring easy-to-eat snacks like nuts and raisins. Eating keeps energy up.
Packs for Nordic Skiing
- A day pack is the best choice for longer jaunts, or when loads are larger (extra clothes plus a hydration system). A simple day pack will do the trick, but be sure it has a waist belt. Outside pockets make finding small essentials easier.
- Wait-belt packs. worn around the waist, are good for short trips when there isn’t a lot to carry. They are comfortable and don’t change the center of balance.
- Snow protection for electronic items. Snow is not a friend to cameras, cell phones, and GPS units. They should be carried in padded weather-resistant cases.
With the right cross-country accessories, a Nordic ski trek can be comfortable and safe. Don't forget to tell friends where you're going and when you'll be back.
The copyright of the article Nordic Ski Accessories for Warmth, Comfort in Cross-Country Skiing is owned by Karen Berger. Permission to republish Nordic Ski Accessories for Warmth, Comfort in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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