Get your gear!

Stopped by Skirack yesterday to check out the goods they've got in store for our Junior Racers! Kyle (he's a former CVU skier and big Sleepy Hollow supporter!) was there and ever so helpful. The Skirack will be offering our crew TEAM PRICING so if you need some gear, they are a great resource. You can check them out at www.skirack.com to browse a bit, but I definitely recommend going into the store to get fit. If you have any questions about equipment for this season, don't hesitate to get in touch with me!

As skiers are expected to be skiing both skate/freestyle and classic techniques in the Junior Racer program there might be new issues that arise when selecting gear. There are several options. For skis, there are combi skis (on which you can do both skate and classic techniques, but that, no surprise here, are not ideal for either type of skiing), skate skis, and classic skis. The Skirack has both junior and adult skis in stock with junior skis typically being appropriate for skiers under 100lbs (a lot of proper ski fitting has to do with weight). Bindings are bindings when it comes to the race-type bindings as there is no difference in junior versus adult there. Once again there is the combi concept and then skate and classic, so don't forget to factor in the price of multiple bindings if you are getting multiple skis. We'll be going over some of the basics of the differences in equipment and what characteristics make skis and bindings skate or classic specific when we meet, but, once again, let me know if you have questions.

There are also combi boots, skate boots, and classic boots. Here, the combi option actually does work well. I skied on combi boots for quite a while when I was starting out and the extra support that they offer (since you need more support for skating) was really a benefit and a comfort as far as keeping me on top of my classic skis and not so wobbly. Skate boots and classic boots do have certain features that make them better suited for their individual techniques, but with growing feet, I gladly endorse use of a combi boot to save money and keep things simple.

As far as poles go, there isn't really a combi option as pole length really influences efficiency and comfort in each technique. There has long been debate on proper pole length for both techniques and many reference points that have evaded true consensus. For our purposes, here are some general guidelines. You'll want a classic pole that goes to the armpit and a skate pole that hits between the chin and your lips. When starting out, better to go on the shorter side than longer, but also realize that most poles (depending on material) can be cut down to size if needed. There are also different straps for poles - there is the more traditional loop strap and then more of a racer strap which velcros around the hand for greater control.

I was given some price range info, which I am happy to supply if you contact me, but I also suggest going into the Skirack to get more accurate and specific pricing. Other area stores may also have appropriate equipment, but I don't know of their stock or pricing. I believe we are beyond the ski swap season by now, but those can be good options for equipment as well. There is also the rental program at Sleepy Hollow which is a great option for growing skiers!

***Please let me know as soon as possible if anyone is finding that obtaining equipment is a barrier to participation in the program so that we can find a solution early***