Skate Ski equipment is extremely specialized, as are all types of skis for specialized uses. The following is a description of the current trends in skate skiing equipment.

Skis: The entire length of the ski is waxed for glide, like a downhill ski. Generally, your skate skis will be 10-15 centimeters (cm) shorter than your touring skis. Length is based on body weight and ski flex. Standard skate skis are 170-195 cm. The shortest range is 150-170 cm, mid-length is 170-180 cm, and long is 180-195 cm. If your classic skis are 200 cm, then your skate skis would be 185 or 190 cm. A few years ago short skis 147-155 cm, also known as micros, splashed the market. They are beneficial under certain conditions, such as firm, packed snow, or for beginner skate skiers. The trend this year is going towards mid-length to full length skate skis, which are more stable, float better, and glide faster in softer conditions than micro skis. The learning curve in skating is so extreme, you will quickly outgrow micro skis.

Boots: The use of the foot for propulsion demands an entirely different type of boot. As compared to track classic boots which are shorter and softer, skate boots are higher and stiffer, with high ankle support and a rigid sole. As compared to telemark boots, skate boots are lighter and made of cloth and plastic materials. This year Solomon is the first company to offer women'sskate ski boots.

Bindings: Skate bindings are smaller and lighter in contrast to the telemark binding. There are subtle differences between track classic and skate bindings, which are not visible to the eye. The rubber flexors in the binding are harder for skate skiing to ensure a quick, snappy rebound during the push off when you drive the ski with the side of the foot. This aids in ski control. For classic skiing, the rubber bumper is softer in order to flex when the ski is driven with the toe, which maximizes kick.

Poles: The poles are longer and lighter than any type of ski pole, with a tiny basket on the tip. Some of the racing pole baskets are as small as a quarter. You will need a pole 10-15 cm longer than your classic ski pole. Poles are continuing to get lighter. The light swing weight helps to maximize aerodynamics, with skillful skaters poling up to 40-50 times per minute. Pole weight is important. Newer poles have a second strap on each grip so thatyou can not drop your pole. Beginning skaters might use the less expensive carbon poles or durable aluminium poles.

It is best to borrow or rent skate skis your first few times. You can try the long or micro skis to get a feeling for what you like. When you purchase a new skate ski package, you can spend as little as $350 or as much as a $1000, with $400-$600 being a common range.