We are getting 10-14" of snow in Iowa today. I am going to rent some CC skis and try it out this weekend. Any tips or suggestions for a beginner?
Get a lesson. I had a skate lesson last week and it was invaluable.
Why is it that invaluable and valuable mean the same thing? Flammable, inflammable?
Where in Iowa are you? I agree on the lesson. Rent classic equipment unless you’ll be on groomed trails. I think most classic rentals are waxless, so you don’t need to worry about kick wax. If the forecast is for above freezing, go earlier in the day. Ideal temp in the range 25-30 F. When you pick up your rentals, ask them to quickly apply some glide wax to the full length of the ski. On waxless skis, this is simply wiped on with a liquid or paste in a couple minutes. This can make or break your day, especially if you are breaking your own trail and the snow is wet. This time of year, lingering heat in the ground warms the bottom layer of snow and you can get clumps of wet snow sticking to the ski base. When that happens skiing is impossible. The wax inhibits snow from sticking to your bases. Better yet, buy some paste wax to take with you. You’ll have fun!
One suggestion… take plenty of food. Nothing, and I mean nothing, worse than bonking on skis, especially when it’s cold.
Learn to roll when you fall. Use your poles when getting up. Take plenty of wine for when you rest. Don’t overdress.
Rocketboy