Skis: Double camber, with central area for kick wax (waxless skis have a “fish scale” pattern imprinted on the ski base); when the skier’s weight is evenly distributed between skis, the central kick zone should not contact the snow, thus allowing maximal glide. When the ski is aggressively weighted, the kick zone is engaged in the snow, thus allowing a push-off, or “kick.” Skis are typically 20–25 cm greater than the skier’s height, but the skier’s weight should also be considered when choosing ski length and ski flex.

Boots: Lightweight, relatively low cut, flexible sole

Bindings: Currently, there are two predominant systems: New Nordic Norm (NNN) and Salomon Nordic System (SNS). Both are lightweight and engage the ski boot at the toe alone, allowing the heel to lift freely off of the ski while striding. The two systems primarily differ by the ridges on the binding plate that fit into corresponding slots on the boot’s sole.

Poles: Carbon fiber (preferred by elite skiers) or aluminum, with variable grip and strap systems. Pole length extends to a height between the skier’s armpit and top of shoulder.

Skis: Typically 10–15 cm shorter than classic skis, with more torsional rigidity to accommodate the forces generated during skate push-off; ski design continues to evolve, particularly in relation to side cut and ski tip shape. Racing ski bases have specified “grinds” to enhance glide wax absorption and maximize glide when matched to specific snow conditions.

Boots: Skate boots are cut higher, with a stiffer upper boot that is hinged at the ankle, and provide more lateral support than classic boots. Skate boots also have a more rigid sole.

Bindings: Similar to classic bindings, but with a more rigid toe plate; the SNS Pilot system has a second attachment point to the boot under the toe that operates as a spring-loaded hinged plate and provides slightly more control over the ski.

Poles: Carbon fiber (best) or aluminum, with variable grip and strap systems, slightly longer than classic poles; typical height of a skate pole is skier’s midchin.

Ski glide: Considerable effort is directed at maximizing ski glide during cross-country ski competitions. Most elite skiers carry several different pairs of skis with variable base compositions and stone ground patterns, or “grinds,” each best suited to a particular snow condition. A “rill” pattern may also be pressed onto the ski base to facilitate channeling of melting snow and reduce friction on particularly warm and humid days.

Glide wax: Typically applied to the entire length of the base of skate skis and to the tips and tails of classic skis; layers of wax are melted in with an iron, scraped nearly clean between layers, and then the final layer is brushed and polished after it is ironed and scraped. Modern, high-performance ski waxes contain a variable percentage of fluorocarbon, typically using a higher percentage for warmer, higher-humidity conditions. 100% fluorocarbon wax, though expensive, is often used as the final layer on a fully prepped race ski, even at the citizen race level.

Kick wax: Applied to the center section of classic skis to provide grip for forward propulsion; waxes are specifically formulated for different temperature ranges—harder for colder snow, softer for warmer snow—and can be rubbed on like a crayon, then melted with an iron. Certain conditions (icy or warm and wet) call for Klister wax—a sticky, glue-like paste squeezed from a tube.

Fabric and fit: Cross-country skiing is a highly aerobic sport. Race participants typically wear light, form-fitting, synthetic clothing, although newer merino wool and silk alternatives are available.

Layers: Layered clothing is a key strategy to avoid either overheating or excessive cooling that might otherwise be caused by variations in exertion or variations in weather, particularly during training or casual skiing.