Bindings
The bindings used in cross-country skiing secure only the toe of the boot to the ski and the heel remains free.
Ski
The skis used in cross-country skiing are light and narrower than those used in Alpine skiing. The skis used in cross country skiing are freestyle skis and classic skis that have different requirements. Freestyle skis are generally 1.7-2 m long and 4.5-5 cm wide while classic skis are longer than the freestyle ones having a length of 1.95-2.3m. Gliding wax is used on the undersurface of the skis to reduce friction.
Ski Poles
Ski poles are made of aluminium tubes and are used to help maintain balance during skiing. Freestyle ski poles should reach up to the mouth of the skier, and classic ski poles should come up to the armpits of the skier.