Freely explore the mountains and fields. "BC Cross Country" Gear Edition

If you decide to start backcountry cross-country skiing, what kind of gear should you choose?

Should I choose the width and length in the same way as when skiing on the slopes? What kind of boots and bindings do I need? We asked Mr. Ito of Well-tuned, Japan's only shop specializing in BC cross-country skiing, about these basics

The board has a step sole with edges

When starting out in backcountry cross-country skiing, the basic specifications should include a step sole with edges.
This allows you to grip the snow and walk on flat ground as well as going up and down slopes. The ideal length is about your height plus 10 centimeters for easy maneuverability while skiing.
Anything longer will make it harder to change direction while walking, as it will reduce agility.

And most importantly, the width of the skis is crucial.
For the light and agile walking that is the essence of backcountry cross-country skiing, a waist width of 60-80mm is recommended for stability. Many rental skis are also this size, so taking a tour that includes rentals to try them out before purchasing will help alleviate any concerns about choosing the right gear.

Also, because cross-country skis are measured by the thickness of the top, the number in the product name often indicates the thickness of the top. Don't forget to check the sidecut when you pick up a board

Fischer/Traverse 78 Crown/Skin

Length = 169, 179, 189, 199cm
Dimensions = 78-61-69mm
Weight = 1,880g (179cm pair)
- Lightweight and featuring a well-balanced shape. An all-around model with a proven track record of adoption by various guide clubs in Japan.

Fischer/Excursion 88 Crown/Dual Skin

Length = 169, 179, 189, 199cm
Dimensions = 88-68-78mm
Weight = 2,050g (179cm pair)
- Suitable for all snow conditions and offers high maneuverability even on untracked routes. A standard model favored by guides.

Fischer/S-Bound 98 Crown/Dual Skin

Length = 159, 169, 179, 189cm
Dimension = 98-69-88mm
Weight = 2,200g (179cm pair)
This wide model is characterized by its high potential for stability even in deep snow conditions, making it ideal for use in heavy snow areas.

MADSHUS/ PANORAMA M68

Length = 162, 172, 182cm
Dimensions = 99-68-84mm
Weight = 2,530g (182cm pair)
- Features a deep sidecut for excellent control and sufficient buoyancy. Also a model with superior downhill performance.

MADSHUS/ PANORAMA M78

Length = 162, 172, 182cm
Dimensions = 109-78-95mm
Weight = 2,530g (182cm pair)
The 109mm tip and overall wide design provide excellent buoyancy. Recommended for users who want to ski firmly even in deep snow.

ROSSIGNOL/XP 85 POSITRACK

Length = 165, 175,
185, 195cm Dimension = 85-61-75
Weight = 1,246g (195cm)
A new model compatible with Xplore bindings, offering improved downhill performance. The low-density core provides light handling and high durability, while the deeper sidecut enhances skiing performance.

Salomon/OUTSIDE 82

Length=172cm
Dimensions=82-62-70
Weight=1,700g (172cm)
A promising new model that has just arrived in the BC Cross-Country category. Featuring a recycled ABS core, this model is ahead of its time, with an eco-friendly design where the core is visible through the transparent top sheet.

Kästle/XT 84

Length = 170, 180,
190, 200cm Dimensions = 84-62-72
Weight = 917g (170cm)
- Kessle is a long-established brand that has made a significant presence in Nordic races in recent years. It is a wide model in the BC cross-country category and is suitable for deep snow in Japan.

NNN BC standard bindings and boots

With these bindings, only the toes are secured to the boot, leaving the heel free and allowing you to walk.
An important point to know is the difference between these bindings and the NNN standard bindings used for cross-country skiing. For backcountry cross-country skiing, it's recommended to choose the NNN BC standard, which provides greater stability. Compared to the NNN standard for cross-country skiing, the wider toe-locking area makes walking and skiing on uneven terrain smoother.

You also need to choose boots that are NNN BC rated to match your bindings. Most boots are mid-cut to high-cut, allowing you to walk through ungroomed areas with fresh snow, and are made of lightweight leather, making them easy to put on

■Bindings

ROTTEFELLA/ BC AUTO

Length=242mm
Width=57.9mm
Weight=444g
This classic model is easy to use, even for beginners, as it simply locks into place when installing and can be removed with a single touch.

ROTTEFELLA/ BC Magnum

Length=242mm
Width=68.0mm
Weight=529g
• The wider frame design accommodates wider skis. Enhanced power transfer to the edges improves gliding performance and stability.

■ Boots

Fischer/BCX GRAND TOUR

Sizes: 36-47 (EU)
Weight: 740g / 42
Features a durable and stable leather upper. The breathable construction keeps your feet warm and dry, making it ideal for long rides.

CRISP(Crispi) / STETIND GTX® BC

Sizes: 36-46 (EU)
Weight: 860g/42
• Mid-cut boots equipped with GORE-TEX. Made entirely of full-grain leather, these boots will become even more comfortable with each wear.

CRISP/ NORDLAND HOOK GTX® BC

Sizes: 36-46 (EU)
Weight: 729g/size 42
- Lightweight yet stable with side support thanks to GORE-TEX technology.

Also worth checking out: ROTTEFELLA's new binding "Xplore"

ROTTEFELLA, a Norwegian company specializing in cross-country bindings, has introduced the Xplore pin-type binding system, suitable for all terrains. It offers
easy attachment and detachment, and its flexible flex pad provides greater freedom of ski control, making natural changes of direction easy.

Heel support is also included, enabling smooth walking even on inclines. Compared to the conventional NNN BC standard, increased strength and stability result in improved gliding performance.
Compatible boots are from alpina's classic ALASKA series, a benchmark for BC cross-country boots. These boots offer a high level of hold while also providing rigidity underfoot thanks to rubber reinforcement covering from toe to heel.

ROTTEFELLA/Xplore BCOff-Track Binding

Length=---
Width=---
Weight=374g

alpina(Alpina) / ALASKA XP

Size = 36-48 (EU)
Weight = 860g

Poles affect the ease of walking

While most backcountry poles can be used, dedicated backcountry poles are more practical for easier weight transfer during walking. Ideally
, choose poles with a comfortable grip and a wide-range powder basket. The ONE WAY BC VARIO, specifically designed for BC cross-country skiing, offers smooth pole work and allows for a firm push in the direction of travel. It features an extended BC grip at the bottom, which is particularly useful during traverses.

Furthermore, the soft powder basket with a wide range of motion adapts to any slope or snow condition, and the rounded shape of the tip makes it easy to thrust in various directions.
Equipped with a quick-lock system that allows for easy length adjustment from 115cm to a maximum of 160cm, it provides high maneuverability even on long, flat routes, and the thoughtful design addresses every need.

ONE WAY/ BC VARIO

Size=Free

The shop that told me