I'm too old to ski at high speed through the woods. It can be very strenuous. But since beginning to snowshoe and ski some years ago, I enjoy winter and have camped down to -20F and been completely comfortable. Last year I went to a nearby state forest right after 10" on new snow with not another soul about. Snow deadens sound so that the woods were very quiet and peaceful and I had a very enjoyable 2-3 hours.

There are several types of xcountry skis (no surprise). There are very skinny skis that would be used at a ski area with prepared tracks and such skis are very fast. Another similar but wider ski, which does not fit in prepared tracks, had some shape to enable some turns in mellow terrain and will also work well in 6-10 inches of snow. This second type is often called XCD for Cross Country Downhill. Just like buying a bike, it is best to have an idea of what a bike of a ski is to be used for. It would be best to go to a xcountry ski area and rent before buying. Actually, for occasional use, renting is a better option. Give it a go.