8 Best Kids Cross Country Skis 2025 in the United States

The Sporten Favorit Beginner Kids Junior Cross Country Skis are a great option for young skiers who are just starting out. With a length of 110cm, they are appropriately sized for kids, making it easier for them to learn and balance. The adjustable universal bindings are a significant advantage, allowing the skis to grow with your child or to be shared among siblings. The inclusion of poles with baskets and adjustable wrist straps is a nice bonus, providing a complete set to get your child started right away.

The fishscale bases help with grip, which is particularly useful for beginners who need the extra traction to maintain stability and control on different types of snow. These skis are made from wood, giving them a traditional feel and likely contributing to their durability. Being manufactured by Sporten, a reputable company with over 100 years of experience, adds a layer of trust in their quality.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The skis are designed for beginners, so they might not offer the performance features that more advanced young skiers might look for. Additionally, while the adjustable bindings are convenient, they may not provide as secure a fit as fixed bindings for more aggressive skiing. Despite these points, the Sporten Favorit skis are a solid choice for kids who are new to cross-country skiing and looking to have fun outdoors.

The Nordic Rocks Cross Country Skis offer a beginner-friendly option for children and youth new to skiing. The key feature is the step-in bindings, which allow users to wear any winter boots rather than specialized ski boots. This makes it convenient and cost-effective for families. The adjustable-length ski poles are a great addition, ensuring they can grow with the child and are comfortable to use. These poles are lightweight and come with adjustable straps and ski baskets for better control and stability.

The skis have a fish scale-patterned waxless base, which means there's no need to worry about waxing, providing a good balance of grip and glide on various snow conditions. Additionally, the included ski holders make it easy to carry and store the skis and poles together. The skis are 130 cm long, which is a suitable length for young beginners, and they are made from durable aluminum and plastic materials.

The set's primary limitation is its beginner-level skill rating, which may not be suitable for more advanced young skiers looking for higher performance. Furthermore, the 30-day warranty is relatively short, offering limited protection post-purchase. This ski set is an excellent choice for families looking to introduce their kids to cross-country skiing without a significant financial investment in specialized equipment.

The SOLA Kids Ski Set is a solid choice for very young beginners aged 3 to 4 who want to try cross-country skiing in a safe and fun way. The skis are lightweight and compact at 27.25 inches long and 3.5 inches wide, making them easy for little ones to handle and carry. Their plastic construction with rounded tips ensures safety by eliminating sharp edges, which is ideal for kids just starting out. The adjustable webbing bindings fit securely over most winter boots, simplifying preparation for parents.

The slightly raised tips help the skis glide smoothly on flat or gently rolling snow, perfect for backyard play or easy trails. However, the plastic material and relatively simple design mean they are not suitable for more serious or rough cross-country skiing. The skis do not offer advanced camber or flex, which could limit control and performance as children progress. The included poles are appropriately sized for small kids but may feel light or less durable in very active use.

This ski set is a practical and safe starter kit for toddlers exploring cross-country skiing in a casual setting, but it won’t meet the needs of children ready for more advanced skiing techniques or rough terrain.