We at ProXCskiing.com, in collaboration with Rullskidcenter, have tested some of this year’s skin skis from seven different manufacturers.

Winter is coming, and in recent years, more and more people have chosen to tackle their sessions on cross-country skis with skins. But how do we really know which skin skis to buy?

ProXCskiing.com, in collaboration with Rullskidcenter’s cross-country skiing specialists, has tested skin skis from seven manufacturers. In order to test good skin skis but not the most expensive models, the test has been done on the respective manufacturer’s second-best skin skis model. In other words, the model is just below their respective “top ski.”

How was the test?

The testing experts Johanna and Jakob (read more about them below) skied the same loop in the Torsby Ski Tunnel with all models. The model tested first was also tested last to ensure a fair evaluation of the skin skis. 

All skin skis were tested with the binding in the neutral position, even if they were equipped with a removable binding. The respective manufacturer’s specialists helped Johanna and Jakob to get the right flex and length of the test skis so that the experience would be as fair as possible.

Testing personnel

Johanna – grew up in Sorsele, Sweden. “I have been skiing all my life.” Today works at Rullskidcenter but also runs her own business as a ski instructor. She has worked as a ski instructor in New Zealand, Mora, and Orsa Grönklitt, Sweden.

Jakob – grew up in Skåne, Sweden. He moved three years ago to Mora for better access to skiing on snow and studies at the Mora high school. Jakob has also been working since last spring at Rullskidcenter in Landskrona.

Evaluation 

Everyone has different preferences regarding how they want their cross-country skis, so instead of picking a test winner, we have categorized the skin skis based on which type of ski suits a specific type of skier.

How quickly do you notice the characteristics of different skis?

On a pair of skin skis, it is mainly when you come to an uphill that you notice the difference. That is when you ski with a kick-double pole or diagonal stride technique, which means you use the kick zone on the ski.

The Test

The skis are presented by brand in alphabetical order.

• Atomic Redster C9 Skintec

For the seasoned skier who wants a dynamic ski. Easy skiing for those with ski experience.

 • Fisher Twin Skin Carbon Pro

Great skiing feel. Dynamic ski. Easy to kick for experienced skiers.

• Kästle XP20 Skin

Good skiing feel for the experienced and easy skiing for the beginner. Stable in the track, easy to kick. Underdog brand delivering a ski to match the big brands.

• Madshus Race Pro Skin

Good skis for the avid recreational skier as well for the beginner. Compliant and easy to handle. Easy skiing.

• Peltonen SkinPro Classic

Very stable on the track. Easy to get a secure kick. The ski feels very safe. Suitable for both the beginner and the experienced skier.

• Rossignol X-Ium R-Skin

Great skiing feel. Dynamic skiing. Easy to kick for experienced skiers. 

• Salomon S/Max eSkin

Nice and easy skiing for beginners as well as experienced skiers. Feels stable on the track. Recycled material is used on the core.