
You'd think you could set up a crampon setup with these and scale some larger mountains, but, alas, they're really only set up for a Nordic ski with a BC binding. The lace up system covers that internal tongue, creating that unique seal that a mountaineering boot has, and the stiffer lugged sole has the beefy and burly feeling that rugged work boots and alpine setups normally have. These look a lot more like a mountaineering boot versus a cross-country boot, and when you pick them up and hold them in your hands, it's clear that you're getting a very burly setup. The water-bottle sleeve holds a standard 21-ounce vessel (included).The Fischer BCX Transnordic Waterproof cross-country ski boots are an amazing choice for adventurous skiers who find themselves wanting a beefier setup than a normal Nordic boot, even by BC standards. Its rectangular zippered storage pocket is just a bit bigger than what you’d find on typical hydration belts-enough to fit a phone, gloves, and snacks. If you’re just going out for a few hours, CamelBak’s Podium Flow belt is all you need. (women’s XS–XL / men’s S–XL)ĬamelBak Podium Flow Belt ($45) (Photo: Courtesy Camelbak) We especially like the pants’ wide, flat waistband, which is covered in the same stretchy fabric found on the back of the legs-they’re almost as comfortable as yoga pants. That lining is almost as soft as fleece, minus the fuzz.ĭaehlie Sportswear Conscious Pants ($200) (Photo: Courtesy Daehlie)ĭaehlie’s latest uses a Tencel-wool blend-soft shell on the front of the legs and airy elastic mesh on the back-so you can stay warm on blustery days without getting sweaty, even when you’re working hard. This pair uses a terry lining made of looped wool yarn, which generates a shocking amount of warmth with relatively little bulk (a windproof shell helps). The solution: hybrid gloves, which group your fingers into three slots instead of five individual ones.
#FISCHER OTX ADVENTURE BC FULL#
You need full finger dexterity to grip and release the pole with each stride. Unfortunately for those of us with cold hands, mittens are a no-go for nordic skiing. Hestra Windstopper Wool Terry Split Mitts ($70) (Photo: Courtesy Hestra) The VRG has those benefits (sans lateral protection) in a stylish silhouette. Shield frames offer refuge from both sun and wind but look undeniably dorky. Goodr VRG Sunglasses ($35) (Photo: Courtesy Goodr) This year it got an upgrade: a waterproof front panel, 1.2 extra liters of storage capacity, and a two-ounce weight reduction.

Turns out it rocks for nordic touring too-it’s just big enough to hold water, snacks, and an extra layer or two, without getting in the way of an efficient stride. The D Route has been one of our favorite resort-ski packs for years due to its low-profile design. Mystery Ranch D Route Pack ($99) (Photo: Courtesy Mystery Ranch) One Way’s aluminum BC Vario is adjustable from 95 to 160 centimeters, with a long cork-and-foam grip that comes in handy on angled traverses. One Way BC Vario Poles ($119) (Photo: Courtesy One Way)Īny old beater poles will do the trick for low-key woodland adventures, but touring-specific ones with adjustable shafts and powder baskets sure are nice. At 46 millimeters underfoot, they’re also skinny enough to fit into groomed tracks. Atomic’s Savor boasts a new silhouette designed with maneuverability in mind: it’s wider and shorter, with a gradual sidecut for a stable yet nimble ride that skiers of all abilities will enjoy. They require minimal maintenance, so you can pretty much just slap them on at your back door and head off into the woods.
#FISCHER OTX ADVENTURE BC SKIN#
When it comes to off-track nordic adventures, skin skis, which use built-in alpine-style climbing skins under the foot to produce grip, are the way to go. (women’s XS–XL / men’s S–XXL)Ītomic Savor XC Skintec Skis ($335) (Photo: Courtesy Atomic) It’s light, breathable, soft enough to wear over a T-shirt, and wards off flurries.

The Berrino has fleecy merino on the inside and durable synthetic polyamide on the outside. Ortovox Berrino Jacket ($240) (Photo: Courtesy Ortovox)

The rubber outsole is more flexible and deeply lugged than typical nordic boots to keep you surefooted in icy parking lots. Not these, which are stiff and supportive enough for off-track endeavors in a surprisingly light (1.3-pound), svelte package, with a secure speed-lace system that locks the foot in place. Fischer OTX Trail Boots ($149) (Photo: Courtesy Fischer) Those days call for different gear: a fatter ski, a slightly beefier boot, and clothing and accessories to keep you warm even if you’re moving slow. But there’s something special about just clipping into your bindings and going-around the backyard, down an unplowed forest road, or through the woods on a hiking trail that doesn’t see a lot of traffic.
#FISCHER OTX ADVENTURE BC ZIP#
Sure, it’s fun to zip down corduroy on a well-waxed skate setup.
