What kind of skiing can you do?

Answer 1

There are two basic types of skiing - downhill, and cross country, also known as Nordic skiing.

Downhill skiing relies on gravity. The skier starts from a high point and skis to a lower point. It is very difficult to progress on a flat surface or, even worth, go up hill. Skiers can achieve very high speeds, as fast as 70 KPH and more. Downhill skis are wide, the boots are very stiff and hold the leg motionless, and the bindings bind the boots to the skis rigidly. In order to go downhill, one needs to get to a high point, which means that the skier needs to take a ski lift (usually) or a helicopter (if you are very rich).

Cross country skiing relies on the skier's muscle power. Most cross country skiing is done on fairly flat surfaces, with a few mild ups and downs. The skies are usually narrow, the boots flexible and the binding allows the skier to lift his heal up from the ski.

Cross country ski is a quieter sport, and one of its big advantages is that it can be done anywhere there is snow, including secluded nature spots.