These days in Australia, skis used for cross country ski touring all have a pattern base with metal edges. The pattern base gives grip to the ski allowing the skier to travel up slopes without sliding back. A grip wax is not needed and generally skins are not necessary. Skis with a pattern base are perfect for the undulating terrain of the Australian Alps. They allow you to travel up hills, along the flats and down without the need of stopping. The metal edges give you greater edge control. It is important to look after your skis, particularly the bases. A glide wax should be applied throughout the season. At the end of the season, your bases should be cleaned and then rewaxed with a glide wax which is not scraped off until you are preparing for your next ski.

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