Equipment & Uniforms
Equipment
Both Classic and Skate (freestyle) skiing are used during season, meaning two pairs of skies and poles for each skier. Team is usually able to loan/lease skis, poles and bags to first year skiers. Skiers are encouraged to purchase Classic skis if they intend to continue. (This is a great lifetime sport!) Skiers should take good care of team equipment, to continue to offer this option, and are required to wax regularly and properly. Waxing time at school or home is also necessary once or twice a week. A waxing clinic is held early in the season to teach correct process. Gear West holds weekly clinics throughout season. Patience and care required due to size, maintenance and frequent transport of equipment. Gear West’s owner Brian Knutson is a Former Cardinal skier and State Champion and provides a discount to the Coon Rapids Skiers.
Coach Denny Green and the Coon Rapids Nordic Ski Boosters Club are always looking for deals on new skis and poles. Parents should as well. The Boosters Club was able to replace many of the really old pairs of skis last year, so most of our skis are now less than 10 years old. There may be a possibility of a Lease Program through Gear West for equipment for First and Second year skiers. By year three all skiers are encouraged to have their own equipment. Look for deals at the Ski Swap held at the State Fair Grounds in the fall.
Clothing/Uniforms
Racing uniforms issued to all skiers. Warm layers recommended for season: warm socks, sock liners, winter boots, several thermal tops and bottoms, lined wind pants/waterproof snow pants, t-shirts, sweatshirt or vest, windbreaker or light jacket, warm jacket, warm but flexible gloves or mittens, glove liners, hat-headband-earmuffs and face mask. Don't need to be fancy, just functional! While active athletes stay much warmer than prior to or after running or skiing. Each will find their own comfort levels in various temperatures. Layering allows for flexibility with the ever changing weather. Clothing next to skin should be polypropylene or other fabrics that wick away moisture - NOT COTTON. A hip pouch/water bottle is necessary for practices and meets away from school.