We strongly recommend using tip-skins for all first time skiers, especially if conditions are fast and less forgiving. They are to skiing what training wheels are to a bicycle.

We tested the best cross-country skis from Atomic, Rossignol, Salomon, and more to help you find the best option for your needs and budget. ... Grip: Skin ; Weight (pair): 3 lbs., 1 oz.

Nylon skins provide the most traction, ideal for skiers who are newer to backcountry skiing or looking for skins that come at a slightly lower price point. BD’s Ascension Climbing Skins are a full ...

At the top of that gear list (after avalanche beacon, shovel, probe) is climbing skins. If you're planning to earn your turns, you'll need to get up to get down, and the only way to "ski" uphill ...

The 70 percent mohair and 30 percent nylon Pomoca Free Pro 2.0 Skins are the go-to for diehard backcountry skiers like Hoji and Cody Townsend for their balance of grip/glide performance ...

WHISTLER, British Columbia As large, wet snowflakes fell onto the finish area at the cross-country skiing venue at the Vancouver Olympics, Tjere Smevold appeared to be more than a little exasperated.

Touring skis, skins and cross country equipment have become the bounty of those luckily enough to be in the ... with their heels loose out the bindings while the skins grip the snow below.