In 2022 the Skirack partnered with the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team, and sent a Wintersteiger Race NC that had been in our shop from Burlington, VT to Estonia. The U.S. Ski Team had a plan to move that grinding machine into a mobile ski work truck. This would allow the service team to massively expand their capabilities in preparing athletes skis for World Cup competition.

Well, this multi-year project is finally taking off for the 2024-25 World Cup season!!! We recently had a chance to catch-up with Paul Choudoir, from the U.S. Ski Team, who is leading the project. For those unfamiliar, ski stone grinding is a process where a specialized machine uses a grinding stone to remove a very thin layer of the ski base. This refreshes the surface by flattening it, removes scratches and damage, and exposes fresh pores to better absorb wax - all of which improves ski glide and performance. The micro pattern of the stone, which gets transferred onto the ski base, is cut by a small diamond. This allows the skis to be optimized for different snow conditions. The Ski Team will look at everything from temperature, humidity, snow pack, and snow crystal shape to decide on this grind pattern.

As the chilly fall air rolls in and with it dreams of snow and skiing, the former racer in me can’t help but feel the excitement that comes with an upcoming race season. A new start, a chance to let hard work and a love for the sport pay off. Whether you’re a seasoned collegiate skier, a master-blaster, or someone trying out racing for the first time, here are some useful tips for getting race ready!

Skirack's Workshop Series is a 3-part bicycle learning experience ideal for those looking for fundamental bicycle knowledge. Classes start Tuesday, August 6th.

Whether you are riding around the latest and greatest the bike industry has to offer, an old school relic, or the die-hard four season commuter, admittedly as a cyclist, you care about the bike you are on. Keeping your bicycle running smoothly will only ensure the longevity of the bike, its performance, and the overall enjoyment you will get out of every ride.

While many tunes and services are best left for your friendly local bike shop, the first and foremost is something everyone who rides is capable of maintaining.

Ski Rack Inc. is delighted to announce a new partnership with U.S. Ski & Snowboard. Ski Rack Inc. supplied U.S. Ski and Snowboard with a Wintersteiger Race NC tuning machine that will be the foundation for the first ever proprietary, European-based ski grinding program for the Davis U.S. Cross Country Team.

Ski wax is an integral part of modern cross country skiing. Wax improves the performance of skis and maintains the health of ski bases. There are hundreds of wax options to maximize performance in different snow types and temperatures. For the beginner, starting a collection of waxes can seem like a confusing and expensive process.

Here is a very basic guide to help you find the most affordable, effective, and easy to use waxes. 

The Popularity of Cross Country Skiing + Backcountry Snowsports

Last winter, the outdoor community saw an unprecedented surge in winter outdoor activities. Between travel and ski resort restrictions, more people discovered or rediscovered snowsports as a way to get out of the house, get back into shape, or socialize while enjoying the outdoors.

As a direct result of this popularity, winter gear has been in demand like never before. Last winter, touring and backcountry cross country skis and equipment sold out, with few or no options for our buyers to reorder. We also saw an uptick for backcountry gear and snowshoes. Indoor bike trainers also increased in popularity as people preferred the flexibility of riding at home with their friends virtually. More recently, running shoes and clothing have seen supply issues due to production and shipping delays.

If this all sounds familiar, it should. We’re still experiencing the same demand and supply issues with finding a bike.

Hometown: Burlington VT

Years of Experience: 11 Years here total at The Skirack as a mechanic. I've been the Catagory manager/Buyer for Snowboard product for the last 10 years and the Bike Parts and Accessories buyer for the last 3 years. I've been and avid rider and biker for around thirty years.

Outside Interests and Hobbies: In winter it's getting as many days on snow as my schedule and body will allow. Usually at Sugarbush or Bolton and the surrounding backcountry. Summer time its long rides off the beaten path especially if it involves camping, or just a quick cruise around town to meet up with friends for a beer. Golfing, disc golf, seeing live music or just hanging out with my Wife and our dog.

Whether you are riding around the latest and greatest the bike industry has to offer, an old school relic, or the die-hard four season commuter, admittedly as a cyclist, you care about the bike you are on. Keeping your bicycle running smoothly will only ensure the longevity of the bike, its performance, and the overall enjoyment you will get out of every ride.

While many tunes and services are best left for your friendly local bike shop, the first and foremost is something everyone who rides is capable of maintaining.

Not only did you need to be “Broke, Rad, Athletic and Determined,” but you also needed a snorkel because man, Rasputista was WET! When Rasputista said on their website “It’s not about the racing. It’s about challenging the human spirit,” they weren’t kidding!

Looking back on it, April 27th would have been a great day for a meteorologist because no matter what weather they predicted, the odds were ever in their favor. There was a little bit of rain, some sleet, a glimpse of sunshine and oh some SNOW! Yes, that’s right there was some white stuff coming down from the sky and yes, I was very confused. But, hey, it's Vermont and weird stuff happens all the time.