I attended a seminar on a clearer understanding between skate skiing and class cross-country skiing. A few weeks ago I tried classic cross-country skiing and loved it! This is why I attended this beginner workshop at REI. The best way to describe skate skiing is that it is similar to speed skating, and it is a shorter ski than a classic ski. It was interesting to learn how to wax the skis. Adding grip wax helps the classic skier climb hills. Best part is I received a day pass to Devils Thumb Ranch. I may take a lesson before when heading out again.