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XC SKI STYLE - GEAR NEWS and NOTES
Information about products for xc skiers (Updated June 22, 2009) For news about resorts go to or click Resort News. New items are signified by an asterisk next to the headline below.
Erik Sports Invests in Solar Energy *
Books for Sale (incl. new Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain)
Karhu Introduces Greenlight Core
Madshus Celebrates 100th Year Producing XC Skis
DVD's on XC Techniques and Learning to Nordic Ski
Fischer Adds Womens Package to Cruiser Line
Swix School for Ski Waxing and Tuning
THORLO Introduces 3 Levels of Foot Protection
DVD "The Joy of Telemark Skiing"
Rossignol
Evo XC Ski For Recreational Fun
Erik
Sports Invests in Solar Energy
Erik Sports, a Nordic and snowshoe equipment supplier for more than three decades decided to increase company sustainability by addressing building power and heating needs in the Tranquility, New Jersey location. The company is most known for the White Woods brand of Nordic and snowshoe products.
Company president, Michael Messler recently spoke with XCSkiResorts.com about the summer renovation projects including an upgrade to lighting, retrofitting the boiler, and solar panel installation for thermal and photovoltaic purposes. The greening of Erik Sports brought both environmental and financial advantages to the company's operation.
Adding the investment tax credits from the state and Federal governments to the New Jersey state renewable energy credits has been instrumental to justify the project but Messler, who is also acting as his own contractor cites other issues, too. The depreciation expense and a substantial decrease in the number of cords of wood needed to heat the plant and office are significant as well as the positive public relations of the company's commitment to sustainability. And Messler purchased the solar system directly from the manufacturer.
The lighting upgrade provides improved light and it will result in 65-70 percent in energy savings. A wood boiler replaced the oil-powered heating system. This system will now be integrated with an evacuated tubes solar unit so that the wood will be used only as a backup.
These undertakings and investments make Erik Sports the most sustainable product company in the business.
"Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain" by Bruce Tremper is a new edition that is easy-to-understand and accessible for snowsport novices as well as technically insightful snow safety veterans. Approximately 150 people die in avalanches each year and thousands more are lucky enough to survive them without injuries.
This manual is ideal for backcountry xc skiers, snowshoers, snowmobilers and others and it is organized according to the structure of American Avalanche Association classes and it has been reviewed by peer experts.
Staying Alive covers different avalanche types, judging terrain's hazard level, routefinding and safe travel essentials. Rescue strategies and an analysis of human nature versus danger is also included. The 304-page paperbound book has 235 charts and illustrations and 60 photos, and it is available from The Mountaineers Books for $18.95.
"The Story of Modern Skiing" by John Fry is a book viewed by ski industy insiders as the definitive account of the revolution in ski equipment, technique, resorts, and competition that took place after World War II. It is 408 pages, has 86 photos and maps, a timeline, and an index of more than 1,000 names and places. Jean Claude Killy calls it a remarkable memoir and history of the sport.
The book manages to capture the essence of xc skiing in about 15 pages (though there are a few xc ski writers that could create a separate book on the topic of modern xc skiing), but the book would be a monument to anyone that is into skiing.
You can get it on Amazon but for a personally signed copy send a check of $29.95 ($29 for additional copies) to author John Fry, Editorial, 23 East Lake Drive, Katonah NY 10536. Include the name (s) of the person (s) whom you want the book dedicated to, plus address where you want the book (s) shipped to. Tell him you heard about it on XCSkiResorts.com.
Another new resource book of xc ski and snowshoe trails by First Ascent Press is "Ski Trails of Southwest Montana." This 112-page book by Melynda Harrison has 30 xc ski and snowshoe trails around the Greater Yellowstone region of Big Sky, Bozeman, and the Paradise Valley. The book is $16.95 and can be ordered at http://www.firstascentpress.com/ski-trails-volume1.html
The book "Cross Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness" by Steve Hindman is available from The Mountaineers Books. Steve is a long-time Northwest PSIA certified instructor and former National Nordic Demo Team, who participated in the XCSkiResorts.com Top 10 Page panel of experts.
"Cross-Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness" provides techniques demonstrated in step-by-step photos, special learning activities to reinforce instruction, sidebars for trouble-shooting common problems and matching technique to terrain and snow conditions and tips for the whole family including 10 activities for teaching kids to xc ski with fun and games.
The book acknowledgement of contributors and photographers is a virtual who's who in the xc ski industry. It is 240 pages and it can be purchased for $19.95 at www.mountaineersbooks.org
Karhu Introduces Greenlight Core
With the sustainability buzz abounding in every industry, the ski industry is also getting on board. Karhu introduced the new Greenlight™ Core – found in the BC 100, Jak BC, Bertha, Jil, Betty, XCD Guide, XCD 10th Mountain, XCD GT and XCD Pinnacle skis – a new wood core that improves performance, cuts weight, and helps reduce the product footprint.
Greenlight™ Cores comes in several forms, depending on the type of ski, but the bulk of the core is Paulownia, laminated with stringers of maple and bamboo. Native to China, Paulownia wood is locally sourced, cutting transportation needs and reducing the impact from global shipping. Valued for its reforestation abilities on marginal and contaminated soil, it grows extremely quickly, reaching maturity two-to-four times faster than equivalent hardwoods, making it easy to farm and harvest instead of logging old growth timber. But most of all, its fast growth and large leaf production give it a high carbon sequestration value, as it sucks in carbon dioxide, converts it into wood mass and releases oxygen back out.
The core is just one of many materials that make up a
ski, and there is room for improvement in each and every one. Karhu
believes that the next generation of design should go further than just
functionality, taking into account the footprint of its entire lifecycle,
from production to disposal or reuse. They won’t get there overnight,
but they are taking the first steps and reducing their impact. According
to Karhu, "winter is our business and our life, and we’d like
to keep it that way."
The inside scoop on xc ski equipment companies is that there were plenty of changes among the product suppliers in the past couple of seasons. Movings and pairings have rocked the world of long time players, but it is doubtful that there'll be any major aftershocks for consumers.
Fischer Skis decided to switch its boot/binding system from the SNS Salomon binding (single ridge/groove on the binding plate under the boot sole) to the NNN version (two ridges/grooves on binding plate under the boot sole). This changes the equation of the boot world so that the two types evenly split sales. But with regard to alliances, Fischer joins Alpina, Rossignol, Madshus, and Karhu as NNN boot configuration alignees, while the SNS bindings match with only Salomon and Atomic xc ski boots.
At this point, the different boot/binding versions are not able to be interchangeable. This means that if you have a boot that works with an NNN binding, it will not work with an SNS binding and vice versa. So if your skis are mounted with one type of binding system, you must be loyal to a boot brand that is aligned with the binding. If you decide to switch boot brands, you would need to purchase a new binding to match your different boots (if they are in the different system version). This also entails removing your existing binding and replacing it with the new binding mounted on your skis. Don't ask us which system is best for you, go ask your retailer those questions.
But there is breaking news and confirmation that Salomon has developed a plate to work with the new NIS binding, which is an NNN product that is integrated on some ski models within the Rossignol, Madshus, and now Fischer brands. The NIS requires that the binding be "snapped on" to the ski and adjusted to size for an individual skier. This means that mounting the binding does not require drilling holes in the ski.
Other Scuttlebutt
Rossignol was purchased by Quicksilver (surf/clothing company) and moved from Burlington, VT to Park City, UT. Salomon and Atomic Skis were acquired by Amer Sports and they have moved in together in Ogden, UT. The Madshus brand is now distributed in the US by K2 Corporation in Seattle. The brand was formerly distributed by Alpina Sports. The K2 company now has Karhu and Madshus in xc skiing and Tubbs, Atlas, and Little Bear in snowshoeing. K2 was purchased by the giant Jarden Corporation. Fischer and Alpina remain in NH, but perhaps the phrase "Utah exodus" would be appropriate...more to do with taxes and shipping than with religion.
Partnerships sprouted on the NIS binding project where Rossignol, Madshus, and Alpina cooperated to develop the product. Word has it that Rossignol has had some skis made by Fischer. Atomic and Salomon skis will come from a new plant in Bulgaria. One reason that partnerships are being developed is because the factories are challenged to better utilize their space and operations. But there are strategic motivations, too. Many companies in the clothing business have cooperated like this for years.
In July, it was announced that Garmont, a ski boot distributor in the US has acquired Life-Link Backcountry (Jackson Hole, WY), which is a provider of backcountry equipment including ski and trekking poles, avalanche probes, collapsible shovels and such. Garmont is located in Williston, VT and was formerly associated with Exel ski poles so this move would appear to be a natural one.
The xc equipment business was reported to be worth $32 million in sales in the last year at the wholesale level. This is probably equivalent to a good day at Walmart (the alpine and snowboard product business is estimated at more than $500 million at wholesale). The SIA tally of xc ski sales for the year was 160,000 pairs. In the late 1980's when the waxless skis first arrived on the scene, that annual number once topped 900,000 pairs. To further put it in perspective, the US xc ski sales are fourth in the world. Norway sold 330,000 pairs, Finland 240,000 pairs, and Germany 220,000 pairs….that's what winning medals in the Olympics does for a country's sales of xc skis. Canadian xc sales are about a third of the US sales (much smaller population). The biggest suppliers of xc ski products in the US are Fischer for skis, Salomon for boots, and Rossignol in package sales (skis, boots, bindings, poles combined).
Madshus Celebrates 100th Year of Manufacturing
Congratulations to Madshus Skis, which celebrated its hundredth birthday making it the world's oldest ski factory. A first rate coffee table book called "Setting First Tracks" by Arvid Moller was published and sent out to ski media showing the historical record in copy and photos.
Martin Madshus founded his company in 1906 using handmade tools to make wooden skis in the barn at his father's farm in Vardal, Norway. In 2006, the Madshus factory produced 300,000 pairs of xc skis.
The distribution of Madshus in the US recently moved from
Alpina in Hanover, NH to K2 Sports in Seattle, WA. K2 also distributes
Karhu xc skis, Tubbs and Atlas snowshoes, a number of alpine/snowboard
equipment brands and different lines of clothing.
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DVD's on XC Ski Technique and Learning to XC Ski
A DVD program with a personal approach for new xc skiers on how to learn to xc ski including the fundamentals of xc skiing with instructors for novice to intermediate level skiers is available from XCZONE, self proclaimed leaders in clean oxygen fed sports cinematography. This is essentially "xc ski lessons in a box" for the price of a ski lesson. Learn to Nordic Ski is available in a time-limited promotional price at $19 Cdn.
A new DVD on nordic ski technique for intermediate to advanced xc skiers with information that can be directly applied to fast track development of xc ski skills. The DVD provides a highly interactive toolkit, uses menus, multiple viewing angles, and alternate audio tracks. There is also critical analysis and bio-mechanical modeling, MP3 audio books, a photo gallery, and more. The Nordic Ski Technique DVD is available in a time-limited promotional price at $29 Cdn.
For more details see www.xczone.tv or contact XCZONE in Ottawa, Canada at gravity@xczone.com
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Fischer Expands Nordic Cruiser Line
Fischer XC offers the VISION CRUISER package specifically for women. The ski is softer and lighter and is available in small (164 cm), medium (174 cm) or large (184 cm). But the big deal is that the ski is color-coordinated with boots, ski poles and a matching ski bag, too!
Fischer's Wide Body Technology (WBT) is the original concept behind Nordic Cruising, and is responsible for the stability and grip features. The shape creates a ski that is noticeably wider under foot with a narrowing in the forward and tail sections. Nordic Cruising sidecuts are now defined by 5 measurements instead of the usual 3.
The Cruiser series features a wider waist, which provides control and stability by allowing more pattern contact with the snow to improve uphill grip without reducing glide.
The Nordic Cruising series shows its versatility with 7 adult models and 1 junior to accommodate the whole range of recreational skiers from novice to expert, in-track, out of track or skating, to fit any xc skiing need.
CLICK HERE FOR THE NEW WOMEN'S PAGE for women events and more!
SWIX SCHOOL FOR SKI WAXING AND TUNING
Swix Sport USA has developed a CD-Rom and Web site to provide info about waxing and Swix products for improving ski performance. Techniques for new ski base preparation, base cleaning, glide waxing, kick waxing, ski tuning and such are covered in one-three minute video vignettes. Each vignette features a smile-less man and a voice-over that proficiently demonstrates each of the techniques. Additionally, there is an animated review on half of the screen to display techniques and products in an artist's rendering.
Another aspect of the school is the Wax Wizard, which allows skiers to submit information (snow temp and conditions) and get wax recommendations in return. A catalog of products is also available on the CD or Web site. There is a variety of perspectives offered including racing, sport and recreational for Nordic skiing, alpine skiing and snowboarding. Great steel edge tuning tips, too. The CD will be available for purchase at xc ski shops and areas or get it free on the Web at www.swixschool.com.
THORLO Introduces 3 Levels of Foot Protection
Thorlo, Inc. the originator of the activity-specific sock, has created an entire collection of snowsports sock products. The Levels of Protection is an easy 1-2-3 system, which provides maximum, moderate and minimum protection based on skiers' needs, intensity of their activity and varied weather conditions.
Level 3 is the maximum level sock comprised of Thorlon and wool/silk, which offers the most padding for foot support, impact and shearing (rubbing and blistering) resistance and insulation. The second level is a mid-level sock in terms of the THORLO characteristics while level 1 provides light padding protection for those who prefer a more technical boot fit. The Level 1 Ultra Thin Ski sock uses Thermolite, which provides low-bulk insulation and excellent moisture wicking properties.
Prices of the THORLO Snow sock collection range between $9.99 for the kids snow sock to $19.99 for a pair Thermolite adult high performance ultra thin extreme ski sock. For more info www.thorlo.com
DVD "The Joy of Telemark Skiing"
Dick Hall and friends whip up a tasty batch of innovative teaching tips in the movie "The Joy of Telemark Skiing." It is the perfect blend of clear and precise instruction, great music, and inspirational skiing. To order 800-835-3404 or on the Web site www.telemarknato.com
Dick Hall is one of the forefathers of American telemark skiing and the founder of the North American Telemark Organization (NATO). This organization has been an educational resource for two decades and has helped 40,000 people master telemark and backcountry skiing. Hall created and conducted one of the world's largest and oldest telemark skiing parties at Mad River Glen in Vermont. The annual NATO Telemark Festival is usually scheduled for March.
Keep your eyes out for the NATO telemark camps, workshops and adventure tours on the XCSkiResorts.com Resort News Page and in the words of Dick Hall, "Ski Hard, Play Fair, and Have Fun."
Rossignol Evo XC Ski For Recreational Fun
A few years ago, Rossignol introduced its Evo concept skis, which are ideal for recreational skiers, who demand equipment that is easy to use without sacrificing high performance. These skis are on average 20 cm shorter than traditional xc skis. The EVO Glade is a new model in the EVO series, which has a softer look and feel and was constructed in a more eco-friendly manner without lacquer. It is wider and has a waxless base. Evo Skate and the Evo Classic are 20 centimeters shorter than traditional skating or classic skis and come in three lengths - small, medium and large. Rossignol’s breakthrough new design means that skiers gain unprecedented control without sacrificing glide.
The Evo Skate uses a Cobra side cut to give the ski more shape (46/44/44). The Evo Classic maximizes its shape with a (53/45/50) side cut. Rossignol utilized its Air Tech core technology to offer a cross-country ski that is both lightweight and durable. Each of the Evo Skate and Evo Classic skis use Rossignol’s Active Edge, which is an ABS sidewall/edge that is placed between the cap and base of the ski. Skiers can now apply direct pressure to the edge of the ski, making it easy to corner with control. Both of the Evo ski styles also include a new integrated binding plate, which allows the skier to apply more pressure during the kick phase.
These skis are designed with two types of skiers in mind. First, Evo skis are perfect to use in Nordic Terrain Parks. XC Centers can now carve out jumps, banked turns and other moto-cross terrain on designated ski trails, which adds a whole new dimension to Nordic skiing. Skiers can also use Evo skis on the miles of snowmobile tracks behind their homes.
Second, because they are lightweight and easy to control, Evo skis are ideal for skiers, who previously experienced difficulties with mastering either the classic or skating technique. Evo skis cut the learning curve in half and even beginner skiers will be able to successfully master a technique within hours.
