Nordic Safety

Panhandle Nordic Club prioritizes safety in all Nordic activities and ski tours. Participants are responsible for choosing trips suited to their abilities, traveling thoughtfully, improving skills, and continually assessing navigation and snow safety. Trip descriptions, maps, and reports on this site are not intended for independent travel, as backcountry routes may be unmarked and un-patrolled.

1. Do not go alone; winter navigation can be difficult, and touring with experienced leaders who know local terrain and conditions is strongly advised.

2. Do not set out on a long tour without training and select trips that match your skill level.

3. Tell someone where you intend to go.

4. Listen to experienced mountain folks.

5. Respect the weather and weather reports and prepare for winter driving.

6. Be prepared for stormy weather even on short tours.

7. Bring a well-packed rucksack: extra clothing, flashlight or headlamp, water, food and emergency items (matches, fire starter, space blanket, first aid kit) are good choices. Carry an avalanche beacon where needed.

8. Bring a map and compass and/or GPS unit. Monitor snow, weather and stamina during your tour.

9. Turn back in time; most tragedies occur because this rule was disregarded.

Select tours and activities that align with your current skill and comfort level—attempting trips beyond your ability can create risks for yourself and others. If you’re unsure, contact the trip leader in advance to discuss skills and equipment.

Panhandle Nordic Club tours vary in distance and difficulty. Skill levels applied to touring are as follows:

• A – Easy: Basic skills; mostly level terrain; a few miles.

• B – Intermediate: Entry-level backcountry; 10+ miles; moderate hills; elevation gain 1,000+ feet.

• C – Advanced: Increased elevation, steep terrain, and longer time on skis.

• D – Expert: Challenging backcountry and high-terrain routes with significant distance and technical demands.

Trip leaders may adjust the level, destination, or cancel a trip if conditions require. Your safety and enjoyment are our priority.

The goal of proper Nordic ski clothing is to remain comfortable—not too cold and not too hot— in a winter environment while both exercising and resting. Unlike downhill skiing, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing are high-energy activities, so clothing must adapt to changing exertion levels and weather conditions. The following principles should guide every clothing choice:

Key Considerations

• Thermal insulation – preserves body warmth

• Moisture control – allows perspiration to escape while keeping melting snow and rain out

• Wind barrier – protects against wind chill

Clothing Fabrics: What to Wear (and What Not to Wear)

Choose wool or synthetic fabrics, especially next to the skin. These materials wick moisture away from your body and dry quickly. Wool, in particular, continues to insulate even when wet.

Avoid cotton at all costs, especially as a base layer or mid (insulating) layer. Cotton absorbs moisture and promotes evaporative cooling, which can rapidly chill your body in winter conditions and increase the risk of hypothermia.

Core Protection: Layering System

Using a layering system for both the upper and lower body allows you to regulate body temperature as conditions and exertion levels change.

Base Layer

• Worn next to the skin

• Insulates lightly while transporting moisture away from the body

• Should be snug but not restrictive

Middle (Insulation) Layer

• Traps warm air to provide thermal insulation

• Often fleece, wool, or lightweight synthetic insulation

• Can be added or removed as conditions change

Outer Layer

• Protects against wind, snow, and moisture

• Should be breathable to allow sweat to escape

• Soft-shell or lightweight shell layers are often ideal for Nordic skiing

Extremity Protection

Head

A significant amount of body heat is lost through the head.

• Wear a cap or hat made of wool or synthetic material

• Look for options with thermal and wind-blocking properties

• Consider lighter hats for high-energy skiing and warmer hats for rest stops

Hands

• Use lightweight cross-country ski gloves rather than heavily insulated downhill/alpine gloves

• Mittens provide greater warmth by keeping fingers together

• Always carry an extra pair of gloves, as hands can get wet from snow or sweat

Feet and Socks

• Wear a thin liner sock paired with a medium-weight wool or synthetic sock

• This combination improves moisture management and reduces friction

• Use gaiters in deep snow to keep snow out of boots

Footwear: Skiing vs. Snowshoeing

Cross-Country Ski Boots

• Designed to work with Nordic ski bindings

• Insulated yet breathable to manage moisture during high activity

• Should fit snugly but allow toe movement for warmth

• Waterproof or water-resistant materials are essential

Snowshoe Footwear

• Waterproof winter boots or insulated hiking boots are recommended

• Boots should provide good ankle support and traction

• Ensure boots are compatible with snowshoe bindings and not overly bulky

• Warm, waterproof footwear is especially important, as snowshoeing often involves slower movement and more time standing still

Eye Protection

• Dark, wrap-around sunglasses are recommended to protect eyes from intense sunlight reflected off snow

• Snow glare can cause eye strain, headaches, and even snow blindness

• Alpine or downhill ski goggles are generally not appropriate for Nordic skiing, as the higher exertion level often causes fogging

• Anti-fog solution on sunglasses can be very helpful

Backpack Essentials

A backpack allows you to adjust to changing conditions and carry essential safety gear.

Choose a pack that:

• Has a low center of gravity matching your body’s natural balance

• Offers stable support and does not swing while skiing

• Transfers weight to the hips rather than the shoulders

Carry critical gear for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing:

• Extra clothing layers to replace wet items or add warmth during rest stops

• Gloves, hats, or socks as backups

• Food, water, and any personal essentials

Learn From Experience

Our members have a great deal of experience and are always happy to share knowledge, tips, and firsthand advice to help you stay comfortable, safe, and confident while learning to enjoy Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.