Beginner Skate Skiing

This class is for people who are new to skate skiing, who would like a review of the basics, or who feel like they haven’t made much progress learning on their own. Skate skiing evolved from a classic ski technique called marathon skate (side note: the best ski technique ever!), and was popularized in the early 1980s by US skier Bill Koch after he used a two sided version of the marathon skate to win the 1982 World Cup. The techniques of skate skiing and the equipment (skis, boots and skate pole length) have changed a whole lot since then. In addition to on-snow techniques we will also cover the basics of ski equipment fit (boots, skis, poles) and what kind of clothing to wear.

Please review the descriptions of the Level 1 and 1+  (Beginner and Beginner +) skate skier to see where you fit.

This class will be held on the ski trails at either Snowflake Nordic Center or Grand Avenue Nordic Center depending on the snow conditions.

Registration Includes…

Registration includes six 1 hour sessions. You will need to bring your own skis, boots and poles and you are responsible for purchasing your own ski pass.

What goes into our class pricing? As a local nonprofit, Duluth Folk School is committed to supporting both our instructors and community. We want to compensate our instructors fairly, keep class sizes small, and keep our doors open—while also keeping prices as low as we can.

Thank you for participating in our local handcraft and education economy! Together, we help keep Duluth a fun and vibrant place.

Student Requirements

• Best for Ages: 18 and older
• Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: This class is for Beginners and Beginners+ (Level 1 and 1+). View a full description of skill levels here.

Level 1 Skate (Beginner)

• • I am working on correctly putting on and taking off my skis and poles.
  • I rely largely on my poles to create forward movement and to propel myself down the trail.
  • I use my poles for balance.
  • I am not sure WHEN to use my poles relative to my skis.
  • I prefer to keep both skis on the snow at the same time.
  • I have never successfully executed a snowplow.
  • I can use a snowplow to slow my speed on straight, gradual downhills but have difficulty stopping quickly.

Level 1+ Skate (Beginner +)

• • I can put on my skis and poles correctly and take then off with ease.
  • I can skate without poles for short periods on flat terrain.
  • I can ski using one of the three poling techniques (V1, V2, and V2 Alternate).
  • I can bring myself to a complete stop using a snowplow.
  • I can execute individual snowplow turns to the left or right.
  • I am beginning to connect multiple snowplow turns in succession.

• You should bring:
  • You are expected to have your own skate skis, skate boots and skate ski-length poles. Check with the Ski Hut Adventure Center if you would like to rent skis. Your skis should be ready to go, with the correct glide wax. Please take your skis to one of the local shops if you need help with waxing prior to the first class. Dress in layers for current weather conditions.
  • Ski pass: A Spirit Mountain nordic ski pass (daily or for the season and good for both the Upper Spirit and Grand Avenue trail systems) can be purchased on-line. The Snowflake Nordic Center ski pass can be purchased as a day pass (in person, cash) or an annual ski pass (by mail, check). All City of Duluth trails are covered by the Great Minnesota Ski Pass ($25 annual, $70 three-year).

Location

If there is adequate natural snow we will meet at Snowflake Nordic Center.

If there is not adequate natural snow we will meet at Grand Avenue Nordic Center. 

You will be notified prior to class where we will meet.