Intro to Classic XC Skiing (Part 4): Basic Techniques for Cross-Country Skiing Downhill

In this fourth part of my “introduction to classic cross-country skiing” series of videos, I present a broad range of basic downhilling techniques. Before you get too excited, though, know that the techniques I present here are very basic. This is not an advanced cross-country downhill tutorial. I produced this video specifically for beginner and intermediate cross-country skiers who want to learn how to safely negotiate hilly terrain. And, my emphasis is on the basic snow plow. So if you’re looking to become a master downhiller on cross-country skis, look elsewhere.

I also discuss and demonstrate staying in the classic tracks on the downhill, stepping out of the tracks while skiing downhill, performing a half snow plow while skiing downhill in classic tracks. Additionally, I talk about and illustrate step turns, kick turns, and stem christie turns. Again, though, this is a very broad and basic overview of the options that you have on cross-country skis when faced with downhill aspects of terrain.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:31 Dealing with Classic Tracks
5:22 Snow Plow
13:27 Side-Step
15:09 Step-Turn
16:45 Kick Turn
18:49 Pseudo-Parallel Turns
19:10 Closing Thoughts
22:30 POV Downhill Run

On the groomed xc ski trails I was running a set of old, beat-up (rock skis) Fischer Summit Crowns with NNN bindings and a pair of basic Fischer touring boots. In the backcountry setting I was on Fischer Spider 62mm skis with NNN bindings and that same pair of Fischer touring boots.

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Please note that I produced my series of articles and videos tagged “Cross-Country Skiing Explained” with the beginner or intermediate cross-country skier in mind. Therefore, I don’t intend to address racing-oriented philosophy, technique, or gear selection.

Classic Cross-Country Ski Components:

Introduction to Classic Cross-Country Skis (Part 1)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Geometry of Classic Cross-Country Skis (Part 2)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

The Grip Zone of Classic Cross-Country Skis (Part 3)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Types of Bindings for Classic Cross-Country Skiing (Part 4)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Ski Boots for Classic Cross-Country Skiing (Part 5)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

Classic Cross-Country Ski Poles (Part 6)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/cross-cou...

FAQs about Classic Cross-Country Skiing
https://tahoetrailguide.com/faqs-abou...

Waxing Your “Waxless” Cross-Country Skis (for beginner and intermediate xc skiers):

Introduction to Waxing Your Waxless XC Skis
https://tahoetrailguide.com/waxing-yo...

Considerations for buying cross-country ski gear (new and beginner xc skiers):

Buying Cross-Country Ski Gear, for Beginners (Part 1)
https://tahoetrailguide.com/buying-cr...

I've produced this collection of articles and videos about backcountry travel and exploration with the beginner and intermediate adventurer in mind. This is the demographic for whom I most often served while working in the Lake Tahoe outdoor recreation industry. In essence, these informational projects I create and publish are extensions of the many conversations we've had over the years.

Please note that, although I encourage you to venture out of your comfort zone, you need to know your limits and when to turn back. Tahoe Trail Guide and its contributors are not liable for property loss or damage, personal injury, or death. Always consult multiple sources when venturing into the backcountry. Always be prepared for the worst case scenario. Your safety is your responsibility.

Copyright © 2021 Jared Manninen

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