Overview and selection of cross-country ski clothing

Choosing cross-country ski clothing requires special consideration. Even the smallest details such as material, zippers on pockets, streamlining and shape of the suit depend on the feeling of comfort, thermal insulation and double pleasure from walking in the frosty air.

Cross-country ski clothing is not an everyday set of clothes, but specially selected pieces of equipment for sports. A quality suit consists of 3 layers, each of which has its own function.

1. Base inner layer. It can be made of high quality fabrics - cotton, synthetics, wool. And also the composition can be mixed. The basic element of clothing is thermal underwear. An important condition is a tight fit of thermal underwear to the body, so that moisture is absorbed and removed as much as possible, while not getting wet.
2. Insulating layer. It is the middle layer (sometimes called the membrane layer). Its purpose is to wick moisture out and keep warm inside the suit. Material - fleece, polyester, fabric with lycra. This part of the suit should be lightweight and quick-drying, worn on individual request.
3. Protective layer. This outer layer is designed to protect the skier from cold winds and cold temperatures. An important condition is the tightness of the material, at the same time it must "breathe", therefore it is made of mesh microfibers.

Tracksuits for winter sports are divided into several types, the choice depends on the preferences of the skier.

The main outfit options are 2 types of clothing.

• Overalls. One-piece suit, which for easy removal and donning is equipped with zippers at the back (on the back), on the sleeves or on the sides. It is preferred for professional skiing. Thermal underwear is additionally put on under the overalls to keep warm.

• Costume. The set, consisting of trousers and a jacket separately, is equipped with shoulder straps, pockets, zippers. Clothing involves the use of all three basic layers to avoid freezing.

Classification of winter clothing for skiing.

• For training (warm-up). Designed for professional athletes or long-term workouts. This option can separately consist of pants and a jacket or one-piece overalls. The difference between the overalls and the separate components lies in the streamlining of the body, protecting from the wind and retaining heat, while two layers can be dispensed with, since the material is made of membrane fabric.

• For walking. The clothes are designed for consumers - lovers of leisurely tourist walks. The tailoring is characterized by a free cut, the suit does not adhere to the body, it has a reinforced insulated layer, unlike professional equipment. To retain heat, a synthetic winterizer, natural fluff and a layer of artificial thermal insulator are used.

• For sports racing. This "ammunition". Made from high-tech materials for maximum protection against harsh weather conditions. The suit perfectly fits the athlete's body, has high aerodynamic properties, allowing you to quickly pick up speed during the competition.

Sportswear for skiers is produced by specialized manufacturers. When choosing a jumpsuit or a ski set, you should pay attention to well-known brands. They differ in quality characteristics and materials used. Products of several popular brands can be distinguished.

• Noname. Scandinavian manufacturing company. The main advantages of the brand are bright colors with a unique design, logos of well-known sports companies and event sponsors, as well as high-quality premium material. The brand owns a whole line of sports equipment designed for outdoor activities, skiing, walking, winter fishing. The material and form of clothing depends on temperature and weather conditions. Prices range from 7,000 to 12,000 rubles.

• Craft. Country of origin - Sweden. A clothing brand that is also designed for an audience of amateurs and professionals. The equipment was tested on military pilots and showed excellent results, the heat was retained at –50 ° С. The brand includes 5 lines of thermal underwear and clothing for cross-country skiing. Prices for a suit are from 7,000 to 13,000 rubles.

• Nordski. Russian brand. For sewing, a waterproof membrane material - Softshell and high-quality accessories are used. The cost of the kit is from 2550 rubles.

Finding clothes for cross-country skiing in winter is not easy. This is a whole ritual, which should be approached carefully and thoroughly, having previously studied all the nuances necessary for this.

When choosing equipment, you should use simple rules.

1. Material. The choice directly depends on individual goals. For amateurs, it should be a denser and larger insulated layer. For professionals, on the contrary, it is easier. It must protect against harsh winter weather conditions - snow, wind, moisture.
2. Rule "3 layers". The duration of the walk in the fresh air and high performance for professional athletes depend on this rule.
3. Complete absence of defects. For proper heat transfer, as well as moisture removal, the suit must be tight.
4. Correctly calculate the temperature regime of clothing. All equipment for skiing and outdoor activities is sewn and used taking into account the air temperature.
5. Air permeability of the material. An important point - the density is 5000-10000 g / m2 - the suit is designed for short walks (1-2 hours maximum), 10000-15000 g / m2 - designed for beginners, outdoor enthusiasts, over 15000 - you can go long distances, suitable for heavy physical activity.

In addition to the costume, one should not forget about the choice of additional accessories, such as:

• hat or balaclava (buff);
• gloves / mittens, they must be made of moisture-resistant material and with an anti-slip coating;
• socks made of warm technological material;
• glasses for descending from mountain peaks will protect from snow, gusty winds and bright sunlight;
• covers for ski boots, prevent feet from freezing;
• thermopack / waist bag / backpack for storing spare clothes, hot drinks and snacks.

There are several additional nuances for children:

• for a walk, you should take a spare change of clothes and shoes;
• dress the baby in special equipment, and not in everyday things, in order to avoid freezing;
• do not wear too many things;
• check legs, arms and head periodically.