Best way to try cross-country skiing?

[noreaster]

I believe I've seen a handful of comments on the boards regarding XC skiing. Can I get some advice?

My wife and I are interested in trying XC skiing out, and are wondering what people might suggest? We live just north of Boston. I've downhill skied in the past (the switched to snowboarding - but it's been 10 years since I've been on either), she's never been on skis, and is scared of lifts.

I was thinking one of our favorite riding spots might be a good place to try it out, Great Brook Farm SP <greatbrookski.com/>

Anyone have any advice or suggestions?

Thanks!

~brian

[DAVID J]

GBF is a good 1st time spot.Pretty flat and they have rentals.I go to Windblown quite a bit,fun place.

[edge]

Try renting at greatbrook or just buy used.. I bought some great skis, bindings and poles on craigslist for $25. Took them out on the train tracks for the first time today. Someone had broke the trail for me which made it easier. It was great. Takes a few miles to get the hang of it. I still have a lot to learn..

[sea&xc]

When I talk XC I usually throw some bike references in because there are as many different types of Nordic Skiing as there are biking styles. Skating=Roadie, Tele=Downhill bike, Touring=XC bike.

Most Important!! Get the right size gear!! The skis are sized by the skier's weight. They are designed with a double camber which allows the ski to flex and grip the snow when weighted yet will glide by allowing the ski to release the snow. A ski that is too stiff = no grip. Too soft=no glide& more work, think flat tire. The fit range of a ski varies significantly by model, manufacturer and style.

Also a better boot adds control. Many times I have folks saying they can't slow down or turn and most of the time their boots have worn out. Boots should be replaced every 5 years or so depending upon use.

Lastly rent and take a lesson from a XC touring center. They'll give you the basic skills to properly "kick" and control the ski which means more fun and less work. Nordic skiing can give you the best workout since you use all the major muscle groups and its aerobic.

Oops cost. Do you know another sport where you can buy a complete World Cup setup for $1000? New basic package is about $300 for decent gear.

Gunstock, Waterville, Bretton Woods all have Nordic Centers on site. North Conway has Great Glen, Jackson XC and the Mt Washington Valley trail networks all within spitting distance from Wildcat, Black, Cranmore.

Get out there. It is the best conditions in years.