Jack Rabbits (JR) – age 6-9

The checklist for JR Skiers ages 6-9:

Equipment:
Classic Gear Mandatory:
•waxable classic skis that are appropriate for your child’s weight ( please have the camber & kick zone checked at a reputable ski store for weight) and height (tops curve over the head or slightly longer is the approximate size ski length for this age group & skill level). Have your kick zones marked with permanent marker on the ski sidewall.
•waxless classic skis are not optimal if your child wishes to pursue ski racing. When learning how to skate ski in JR level 3/4, the fish scales on waxless skis will provide resistance.
•classic poles- pole top/handle straps should be between the armpit & top of shoulder. Straps should be adjusted so hands are close to the pole.
•classic boots that fit well. No lift or rubbing in the heel area. A way to snug them up tightly ie) laces or pull tie.
Skate Gear Optional:
•Optional for JR level 3/4: skate skis that are appropriate for your child’s weight ( please have the camber checked at a reputable ski store for weight) and height (tops curve over the head).
•skate poles- pole top/handle straps should be between chin and nose. Straps should be adjusted so hands are close to the pole.
•skate ski boots that fit well. No lift or rubbing in the heel area. A way to snug them up tightly ie) laces or pull tie.
•Some children are choosing to use the same pair of skis and boots for both classic and skate. If this is the case, the set should be classic gear. Longer poles for skate skiing would be needed. Their skis will need to be cleaned of all kick wax (sticky wax) prior to a skate ski day. When glide waxing skis that are shared between classic & skate, never glide wax the kick zone area.

Clothing:
3 w’s wicking layer (no cotton):
•under layer (wicking layer -to take dampness away from the skin such as polypropylene long underwear or wool (NO cotton!))
•mid layer (warm layer– fleece or wool works well)
•windproof layer (our club jacket and a pair of light windproof pants will work)

A vest is a good to keep your core warm. It is better to dress in multiple thin layers, rather than one bulky one. (you can regulate your temperature better). Be warm but avoid sweating – take off layers as needed and make sure your outer layers are breathable. Being damp is what will make you cold (especially if you have to stop moving)
•appropriate ski socks (no cotton)-You can again use the 3 Ws; wicking, warm, then your boots are the wind layer. It’s better to have two thin socks than one pair of bulky thick socks. If your feet are prone to getting cold, then get a ‘boot warmer’. (It’s a layer you put over your boots that are designed for ski boots and bindings). For kids- a large wool sock over their boot, (with the appropriate holes cut in it to accommodate bindings) will suffice as a boot warmer.
•mitts are warmer than gloves (no cotton). Again, for colder days, layering mitts are a good idea. Some little fleece mittens work well inside a x-country ski mitten for cold days. Instant hand warmers (‘hot shots’) are good if your hands get really cold.
•a toque
•thin neck buff (Lycra)
•sunglasses (for Fridays)
•Headlamp NOT necessary for Friday 4-5pm jackrabbits classes, but ARE required for Thurs 5-6pm jackrabbit classes during the darkness of winter.
•Plastic whistle mandatory for emergencies (no metal whistles)

Other:

•Water bottle and holder (the bottle needs to be covered or it will freeze)
•Snack for after practice
•Hip pack for water bottle. Backpacks are not optimal as they will throw balance off, especially with skate skiing.

Wax: (for the family)

For starting out, 3 hard waxes will suffice-for example: Swix green (-10/-20C), Swix blue extra (v40 -1/-7C), Swix red (-1/+2)
•Cork
•Scraper
•Wax remover- I like “KUU” bio citron base cleaner ( pump bottle)
•Shop cloths (lint free cloths- blue shop towels from Canadian Tire work great). The x-c version is called
•fiberlene-it’s much more expensive)
•Universal klister

Nice to have:
•Balaclava for our coldest days
•Ear warmers or headband for warmer days
•Other waxes not on the above list

Please have your child put on and take off gear on their own in daylight prior to XCBC programs. This will help them learn and become familiar with their equipment. At this age, they should be self-sufficient with gear and clothing.