Temperature Guidelines for BKL Programs
| Temperature | Racing | Training | Easy Skiing |
| Below zero °F or -18°C Gaitor over mouth, eye |
NO | NO | Several (1-3) short, easy periods of skiing (10-15 minutes each) with proper clothing such as neck protection; watch for frostbite, don't go too far from shelter |
| 0-5°F -18 to -15°C |
Not recommended | Steady work, no intervals | OK, but keep moving |
| 6-10°F -14 to -12°C |
Usually OK Consider factors below* |
Intervals with caution, a good warm-up |
OK, keep moving |
| 11°F (-11°C) and warmer |
OK | OK | OK |
These are guidelines. In making your decision, be sure to take the following into account:
* Factors that make things worse:
- wind chill factors
- long distance from heated space
- lack of shelter from wind
- poorly dressed skiers
- younger and less experience skiers
- longer race course
- remember that skating will be very slow
* Factors that make things better:
- plentiful sunshine
- nearby heated space
- shelter from wind
- warmly dressed skiers
- older or more experienced skiers
- shorter race course
- classic may be more satisfying for very cold conditions
Berkshire Trails Ski Team 