I’m a big fan of both.
This isn’t a whinny comparison with blind evangelical enthusiasm. Let’s be clear … I’m not an advocate of either, and I passionately enjoy both!
I think I’m uniquely qualified to compare with thousands of kilometres on the Nordic skinnies, decades on the telemark boards, and countless descents on my alpine planks.
The first point I must say is why bother to compare?
I have been at the ski chalet enjoying a cold apres-ski barley beverage with gravity slaves, and it’s inevitable, that someone will make some silly ill-informed disparaging comment about my cross-country comrades. More common is the disdain (maybe jealously) fixed heelers have for my telemark free-heeln’ brethren. I can’t figure that one out at all.
One thing history has taught us about hate, disdain, prejudice and distrust is they are not based on reason, but rather sketchy part-truths layered with a sprinkling of insecurity.
I must say, my Nordic buddies often don’t seem to harbour the same ill feelings for alpine skiers. Heck if I know why?
With all that silliness off my chest, I loaded up with a season pass for the ski hill and one for the cross-country trails … I’m waiting with eager anticipation for the magical snow. White gold!
Compare Alpine vs Nordic skiing:
- hard on the knees vs. hard on the lungs
- cold vs. hot,
- fast vs. not so much,
- really really expensive vs. not so much,
- stylin’ vs. who cares!
- Nov-May vs. Dec-April, (because of snowmaking)
- fat vs. skinny,
- fixed heels vs. free heal,
- Mountain vs. hills,
- poutine vs. granola
- beer vs. wine
- goggles vs. glasses
- mitts vs. gloves
What they have in common:
- Great for the whole family,
- Zombies can’t do either,
- Better than Playstation,
- Clean healthy Fun!
No matter how you look at it, they are both a great way to pass the winter. Now get off the computer and get outside … Rough it in comfort ©
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