What is the difference between touring skis, skate skis, backcountry skis and cruiser skis?
A. Touring skis feature the classic technique of gliding from one leg to the next in a straight line. The arm opposite the pushing, or kicking, leg pushes off the ski pole for added propulsion. Touring skis come in different lengths. Narrow touring skis are designed for groomed trails and packed surfaces. “Short” skis can also be used on groomed trails but can negotiate terrain that has not been groomed or packed. Some touring skis are short and wide, giving added stability, agility and flotation. Touring poles propel the skier forward as much as possible without being cumbersome. The ideal length of poles is shoulder height. Skate-skis are similar to racing skis. They are slightly shorter than touring skis and have reinforced edges to help dig into the snow when the skier pushes off his or her back leg. The boots are stiff to support the skier’s ankle during the push phase of the skating stride. Ski poles used in skating are taller and stiffer than touring poles and should reach the t
