1 - Choosing the right SIZE
The size of a cross-country ski is chosen according to your level of ability and weight rather than your height.
For the 500 ski with ski skins:
- 55 to 65 kg = 181 cm
- 60 to 70 kg = 188 cm
- 65 to 75 kg = 195 cm
- 75 to 90 kg = 202 cm
- 85 to 100 kg = 207 cm
If you're between two sizes:
- For more comfort, choose the lower size to ensure the ski is more manoeuvrable.
- For more intensive use = choose the larger size.
2 - SKIN grip, simplicity itself!
The grip of a cross-country ski corresponds to the area located in the centre of the base (underside of the ski).
It provides the "grip" needed to avoid slipping in uphill sections while delivering smooth glide performance on flat or descending terrain.
3 systems:fish scales, grip wax or skins.
The Ski 500 is equipped with a 100% mohair skin grip
The ski skins provide the same quality of grip as fish-scale bases but they have the advantage of not making any noise and do not require waxing
3 - PERFORMANCE bindings, the key to an optimised experience!
All of our skis are sold with Rottefella bindings that are compatible with the NNN, Prolink and Turnamic standards.
The 500 skis with skins are equipped with the classic Rottefella PERFORMANCE bindings which are more suited to experienced skiers.
The binding can be moved forwards or backwards to your preferred position using the key provided: For more grip, move the binding forwards/for better glide performance move the binding backwards.
Easy to use locking mechanism.
5 - A sintered base, for a superior glide performance
The base is the part of the ski in contact with the snow. It is made of polyethylene (HDPE), which can be extruded or sintered during the manufacturing process.
The base of the ski 550 is in sintered PEhd, made from a plastic powder with high molecular weight, heated, compressed and cut into slabs.
This process produces a more dense base and delivers superior glide performance.
6 - Waxing, the secret to making your skis last!
When buying skis, we recommend that you prepare the base well to achieve an optimum glide. Several consecutive waxings are best to "nourish" the base properly.
To maintain the performance of your skis, don't forget to wax them regularly!
To wax your skis, check out our tutorials on our Inovik YouTube channel or book an appointment in your Decathlon workshop.
Changing your skins
If your ski touring skins are worn, change them...
We recommend you contact the workshop to order and get them changed
Ski size 181 cm: Skin reference code 4063263
188: Skin reference code 4063264
195: Skin reference code 4063265
202: Skin reference code 4063266
207: Skin reference code 4835537
GLOSSARY = Construction of a ski
Our skis are made using a "sandwich" structure: by layering different materials in the core of the ski and across its entire width.
The final product is assembled with a press.
CORE = the centre of the ski: wooden (solid or with channels) or composite (honeycomb or Nomex®)
BASE = Part in contact with snow: it is made of sintered or extruded high density polyethylene (HDPE).
GRIP = grip area under the ski
SIDECUTS = width of a ski at the nose, waist and tail
