After reading through all the responses to my other post about four or five times ( http://www.backcountrytalk.earnyourt...d-in-BC-skiing ), and after scanning through the internet reading reviews and equipment specs and who knows all what else, I freely admit to being more confused than I was at the start. No doubt this is due primarily to trying to cram years, or even decades, of education about skis into a few months. Also, there is a whole lot of different types of gear out there.
I'll admit that I am obsessing a bit about it. A shoulder injury has sidelined this year's cycling / kayaking / long haul hikes. Activity wise, skiing next winter is what I have to look forward to the most. So, I have the time to plan and make a rational decision about gear.
Anyways, I'm thinking of running with rugged XC skis, and some sort of NNN BC or telemark binding and boot. I'll also go take alpine lessons at a nearby resort (Salmo or Whitewater) so that I can become proficient in DH skiing. My decision is based upon:
1) I essentially know squat about BC skiing. To try and make a decision about that kind of gear now is a bit crazy.
2) If I did buy AT gear, I might get myself in over my head (figuratively and/or literally)
3) I know I do like mucking about on golf courses, mild slope hills, and some moderate trails.
4) I need to get in better physical condition before I'll be ready to get into steeper terrain.
5) I like the idea of having skis that I can carry across the street and go play out on a field
Because I'm a heavier guy (240 lbs), I'm thinking of something like the Rossignol BC 125 http://www.rossignol.com/CG/CA/bc-12...ckcountry.html I'm hoping it would provide plenty of float on the powder.
What I am stuck on are bindings and boots. Do I go NNN BC? Three pin? Telemark? (Or are a 3 pin and telemark the same thing?) Or something else? What will allow me a decent amount of control in moderate terrain, and withstand a skier who's on the big side?
Oh, and is it safe / advisable to get any of this gear used?
Other info, in case it helps: skier in mid 40's, 5' 11", 240 lbs, one season mountain experience, XC skied on the prairies for 10+ years. I reside and ski in the Kootenay, BC region.
I should mention that I currently have a set of Alpina Red Birds (60-50-55, 210 cm length, full metal edges, waxless) with SNS bindings and boots. I have no illusions about SNS being a great binding for control off the groomed trails - they're not. However, my weight (+ a 15-20 lb pack) means that I am sinking a whole heck of a lot on those skis.
I realize that with a wider set of waxless skis, I won't have much in the way of kick and glide when I'm on the flats or on an upslope. That's okay. I'm looking more for control on the way down, without having to use skins on the way up.
P.S.: Would this package be a good idea? If so, what upgrades would be a good idea? http://www.orscrosscountryskisdirect...i-package.html
I'll admit that I am obsessing a bit about it. A shoulder injury has sidelined this year's cycling / kayaking / long haul hikes. Activity wise, skiing next winter is what I have to look forward to the most. So, I have the time to plan and make a rational decision about gear.
Anyways, I'm thinking of running with rugged XC skis, and some sort of NNN BC or telemark binding and boot. I'll also go take alpine lessons at a nearby resort (Salmo or Whitewater) so that I can become proficient in DH skiing. My decision is based upon:
1) I essentially know squat about BC skiing. To try and make a decision about that kind of gear now is a bit crazy.
2) If I did buy AT gear, I might get myself in over my head (figuratively and/or literally)
3) I know I do like mucking about on golf courses, mild slope hills, and some moderate trails.
4) I need to get in better physical condition before I'll be ready to get into steeper terrain.
5) I like the idea of having skis that I can carry across the street and go play out on a field
Because I'm a heavier guy (240 lbs), I'm thinking of something like the Rossignol BC 125 http://www.rossignol.com/CG/CA/bc-12...ckcountry.html I'm hoping it would provide plenty of float on the powder.
What I am stuck on are bindings and boots. Do I go NNN BC? Three pin? Telemark? (Or are a 3 pin and telemark the same thing?) Or something else? What will allow me a decent amount of control in moderate terrain, and withstand a skier who's on the big side?
Oh, and is it safe / advisable to get any of this gear used?
Other info, in case it helps: skier in mid 40's, 5' 11", 240 lbs, one season mountain experience, XC skied on the prairies for 10+ years. I reside and ski in the Kootenay, BC region.
I should mention that I currently have a set of Alpina Red Birds (60-50-55, 210 cm length, full metal edges, waxless) with SNS bindings and boots. I have no illusions about SNS being a great binding for control off the groomed trails - they're not. However, my weight (+ a 15-20 lb pack) means that I am sinking a whole heck of a lot on those skis.
I realize that with a wider set of waxless skis, I won't have much in the way of kick and glide when I'm on the flats or on an upslope. That's okay. I'm looking more for control on the way down, without having to use skins on the way up.
P.S.: Would this package be a good idea? If so, what upgrades would be a good idea? http://www.orscrosscountryskisdirect...i-package.html
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