down hill equip. for cross- country?

Question
Is there any reason I cannot use my DH ski equipment for skating on wide open groomed cross-country trails? (two hour excursions probably)

Answer
hi
and thanks for the question.

You can use downhill or alpine skis for crosscountry.

Things to consider if this will be appropriate for you:
* how heavy are the skis?
    2 hours with heavier weighted skis will be a burden in the first half hour. In sayign that tho - alpine ski weight mostly comes from teh binding set-up, so it maybe ok.

* do i need to be able to go uphill?
    cross country skis have scales on the base that hold on when going uphill to avoid sliding back. You can herringbone uphill if they are small enough and you have the fitness - again, how heavy are the skis? You can probably get 'skins' to put onto the bases of your skis for the uphill - but generally you taken them off when you go downhill. This may get frustrating after a while if you are travelling with others.

* how long are the skis?
    you dont want the skis too long, especially if you have to herringbone all day, as you will need to take bigger gliding steps. You may be able to adjust your technique to do classic style on the flatter sections - this will be taxing on your arms.

So technically - yes you can use them. It all comes down to a matter of preference as to how hard you are going to have to work on the track.  But you can usually pick up a cheap pair of cross country before the season - perhaps se what is out there before mounting the bindings.  But your alpine skis could possibly make reasonable telemark skis.

Good luck and have a great trip

lisa