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Classic Cross Country Skiing vs Skate Skiing - What's the Difference?

It's all nordic skiing and all fun! You may be trying to figure the best nordic skiing for you, classic cross country skiing or skate skiing. We can break it down for you. 

Classic Cross Country Skiing (Also Known as Touring)

  • Classic cross country skiing is also called traditional, touring, or diagonal stride.
  • It is easiest, generally, for beginners to learn.
  • Classic skiing is done in groomed or ungroomed conditions. See our Maps Page.
  • It is as much of a workout as you make it.  Lessons are always recommended, especially if you're looking to be faster and more efficient.
  • It's done on skis that most commonly have a grip pattern under the binding.
  • Classic cross country skiing is super-fun!  It can feel like a hike in the woods, or a challenging run in the snow.  Make of it what you will.

Person skiing with trees surrounding

Skate Skiing

  • Skate skiing is faster, generally, than classic skiing.
  • It's best done on groomed trails:  Mt. Bachelor and Meissner are our local areas in Bend with the most groomed skating trails. See our Maps Page.
  • It is aerobically more challenging than touring.  Lessons are highly recommended if you've never skated before.
  • Skate skis are glide-waxed on their entire length, similar to downhill skis.
  • Skate Skiing is super-fun! Alpine (downhill) skiers tend to pick it up quickly. It's fast, graceful, and could be your ticket to winter fun.

Person skiing


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