Gail McQueen

Professional Home Economist

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New Life for Old Skis

Cross country skiing is a wonderful sport. What better way to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of winter? It's so environmentally friendly that the only fuels burned are measured in kilocalories, a real bonus for weight control. Good for your health, good for the environment, a definite win win activity! Unfortunately, many of us who have enjoyed the same equipment for years will find that our boots have deteriorated much faster than the rest of our equipment. I was in this predicament. I needed new boots.

After going to several local ski and outdoor shops, I was disappointed to find that the the type of boots that I needed (the ones that fit a three pin harness) were no longer available. That's what I was told. I was given the option of replacing the harnesses on my skis (which could be difficult) and buying new boots to fit the new harnesses or buying an entirely new set of equipment (skis, harnesses and boots).

Not wanting to risk breaking my skis by changing the harnesses or worse, retire my perfectly sound skis to the trash, I pursued the search on-line. Yes, you still can buy ski boots that fit a 3- pin harness. The ones I bought are made by Alpina and they work great. I will caution that they do fit narrow.

I ordered them from Skirack

I notice there are other sites selling the same boot as well. There may be other companies making similar boots. The point is, boots that fit a 3-pin harness are still available. If you are happy with your old skis, there is no need to throw them out.

Have a great winter and enjoy those trails.