Nordic skiers are loyalists and creatures of habit. If we find a boot that fits our high arch or jacket with a slim fit and long enough sleeves, we’re all in. But new gear pops on the scene each year, so we turned to the experts. After all, they know what works.
Here are top picks from our CCCSA members and Nordic experts. Insiders Tip: Check your favorite Nordic Centers and their websites for fit advice, the best deals, and to shop local.
Top Gear Picks for 2024
Skis
“We love our Fischer Spyder 62 Crowns and R3 Combi boots, the perfect all-terrain cross-country ski.” —Beaver Creek Nordic
“The ultra-stable but light and fast Atomic Redster C8 Skintec ski is easy to use and fun for skiers looking for performance without the fuss of kick wax. Like other skin skis in Atomic’s lineup, the C8 offers exchangeable skins: universal, racing, or grip skins. Atomic Redster C8 ($510) includes the Shift-in binding system for easy kick adjustment with a turn dial. Additional skins are available for $40.” —Breckenridge Nordic Center
“Still considered the ‘Gold Standard’ Backcountry ski at the Breckenridge Nordic Center for almost a decade, the Fischer Traverse 78 is light, stable, and fun. The Fischer OTX inserted scale pattern is the most forgiving design and provides more comfort in challenging conditions than any other brand we have tested. This ski will go to more places with less effort.” —Breckenridge Nordic Center
“The Fischer Speedmax 61k is the top-performing skate ski from Fischer, with gliding sidewall and cold base bonding. It is ideal in softer snow conditions, which we have in CO. Fast and light! Come in for a demo.” —Vail Nordic Center
Boots
“We love the 4.5. Rossignol X5 OT Boot for both men and women. Fits out of the box and works in all conditions for classic skiing on and off the track.” —Vail Nordic Center
“Have a pair of boots that just aren’t fitting right? Heat moldable SOLE footbeds improve the fit of your boot by reducing excess volume, reducing fatigue, increasing stability, and improving power and balance through better proprioception. These recycled cork footbeds, made from champagne & wine corks, are available for $59 in multiple thicknesses and can be molded in a matter of minutes.” —Breckenridge Nordic Center
Apparel
“The Swix Universal Gunde Glove fits well. Priced at $39.99, it is a great deal for a warm and functional glove. Available for men and women.” —Vail Nordic Center
“Meet the Nordie Cordie from Nordjörk, an unstructured 5-panel hat in a deep, velvety, wide corduroy. With a simple cursive ‘nordie’ embroidered on the front, it's understated and clean with a whiff of statement-making fashion. Don’t need a hat? Consider the ‘Silently Judging Your Wax Choice’ long-sleeve tees.” —Nordjörk
“I love a good wool sock. I like mine so much that I wear wool socks year-round; they’re worth the investment. And I want them funky, too. Like Darn Tough Oslo Nordic Boot Lightweight Cushion Ski and Snowboard sock.” —Keystone Resort Nordic Center
“LaSportiva Koro Jacket is our staff pick for our favorite lightweight Nordic jacket — both men and women. It fits great and looks great. Fun colors and priced at only $139.95.” —Vail Nordic Center