Editing Cross-country skiing

{{short description|Form of snow skiing}}
{{About|cross-country skiing in general|the competitive aspects|Cross-country skiing (sport)}}
{{good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2020}}
{{Infobox sport
|name       = Cross-country skiing
|image      = Trip to Skorafjell 1.jpg
|imagesize  = 275px

|caption    = Cross-country skiers in western Norway.
|union      =
|nickname   = Cross-country, XC skiing, Nordic skiing
|first      =
|registered =
|clubs      =
|contact    =
|team       =
|mgender    =
|type       = Outdoor winter sport
|category   = [[Nordic skiing]]
|equipment  = [[Ski]]s, [[ski poles|poles]], [[ski boots|boots]], [[ski bindings|bindings]]
|venue      =
|obsolete   =
|olympic    =
|paralympic =
}}
'''Cross-country skiing''' is a form of [[skiing]] whereby skiers traverse snow-covered terrain without use of [[ski lift]]s or other assistance. Cross-country skiing is widely practiced as a sport and recreational activity; however, some still use it as a means of travel. Variants of cross-country skiing are adapted to a range of terrain which spans unimproved, sometimes mountainous terrain to groomed courses that are specifically designed for the sport.

Modern cross-country skiing is similar to the original form of skiing, from which all skiing disciplines evolved, including [[alpine skiing]], [[ski jumping]] and [[Telemark skiing]]. Skiers propel themselves either by striding forward (classic style) or side-to-side in a skating motion (skate skiing), aided by arms pushing on [[ski poles]] against the snow. It is practised in regions with snow-covered landscapes, including [[Europe]], [[Canada]], [[Russia]], the [[United States]], [[Australia]]<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jRrwAAAAMAAJ&q=cross-country+skiing+australia|title=Australian Cross Country Skiing|last=Hampel|first=Ian|date=1988|publisher=Kangaroo Press|isbn=9780864171993|language=en|access-date=13 April 2019|archive-date=28 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191228041011/https://books.google.com/books?id=jRrwAAAAMAAJ&q=cross-country+skiing+australia&dq=cross-country+skiing+australia&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiAir6_lc3hAhWOmeAKHTZ9DPYQ6AEIKjAA|url-status=live}}</ref> and [[New Zealand]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ExVLAAAACAAJ&q=new+zealand+cross+country+skiing+books|title=New Zealand Backcountry Skiing|last=Broadbent|first=James|date=2004|publisher=New Zealand Alpine Club|isbn=9780958242134|language=en|access-date=13 April 2019|archive-date=28 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191228094644/https://books.google.com/books?id=ExVLAAAACAAJ&dq=new+zealand+cross+country+skiing+books&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi7ztf0ls3hAhVFdt8KHQVnDkoQ6AEIKjAA|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Cross-country skiing (sport)|Competitive cross-country skiing]] is one of the [[Nordic skiing]] sports. Cross-country skiing and [[marksmanship|rifle marksmanship]] are the two components of [[biathlon]]. [[Ski orienteering]] is a form of cross-country skiing, which includes map navigation along snow trails and tracks.<ref name="Idrettsleksikon">{{cite book |title= Kunnskapsforlagets idrettsleksikon |trans-title= Encyclopedia of Sports |language= no |location=Oslo |publisher= Kunnskapsforlaget |year= 1990 |isbn= 82-573-0408-5}}</ref><ref name="Mountaineers">
{{cite book
 | last = Hindman
 | first = Steve
 | title = Cross-Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness
 | publisher = The Mountaineers Books
 | date = 2005
 | location = Seattle
 | page = [https://archive.org/details/crosscountryskii0000hind/page/264 264]
 | url = https://archive.org/details/crosscountryskii0000hind
 | url-access = registration
 | quote = Cross country ski paper test.
 | isbn = 978-0-89886-862-3 }}
</ref>

==History==
{{Main article|History of skiing}}
[[File:SapmianSkier1673.png|thumb|right|[[Sami people|Sami]] hunter using skis of unequal length—short for traction, long for gliding—and a single pole. Both were employed until {{circa|1900}}. (1673 woodcut)]]
The word [[ski]] comes from the [[Old Norse]] word {{lang|non|skíð}} which means stick of wood.<ref>{{cite web|title= Ski |work= Merriam-Webster's Dictionary |publisher= Encyclopædia Britannica |url= http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ski |access-date= 2014-10-21 |archive-date= 12 August 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140812002218/http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ski |url-status= live }}</ref> [[Skiing]] started as a technique for traveling cross-country over snow on skis, starting almost five millennia ago with beginnings in [[Scandinavia]]. It may have been practised as early as 600 BCE in [[Greater Khingan|Daxing'anling]], in what is now [[China]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Ancient Ice Sports|url=http://kaleidoscope.cultural-china.com/en/142Kaleidoscope1348.html|publisher=Shanghai News and Press Bureau|access-date=2012-01-01|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120522053805/http://kaleidoscope.cultural-china.com/en/142Kaleidoscope1348.html|archive-date=22 May 2012}}</ref> Early historical evidence includes [[Procopius]]'s (around CE 550) description of [[Sami people]] as ''skrithiphinoi'' translated as "ski running samis".<ref name=Saur>{{cite book |last= Saur |first= Lasse |year=1999 |title= Norske ski: til glede og besvær |type= Research report |publisher= Høgskolen i Finnmark}}</ref> Birkely argues that the Sami people have practiced skiing for more than 6000 years, evidenced by the very old Sami word ''čuoigat'' for skiing.<ref>{{cite book |last= Birkely |first= Hartvig |year= 1994 |title= I Norge har lapperne først indført skierne |publisher= Idut}}</ref> [[Egil Skallagrimsson]]'s 950 CE saga describes King [[Haakon the Good]]'s practice of sending his tax collectors out on skis.<ref>{{cite book|last=Vaage|first=Jakob|title=Milepeler og merkedager gjennom 4000 ar |language= no |year=1955|publisher=Norske Skiloperer Ostlandet Nord Oslo|location=Ranheim|page=9}}</ref> The [[Gulating|Gulating law]] (1274) stated that "No moose shall be disturbed by skiers on private land."<ref name=Saur/> Cross-country skiing evolved from a utilitarian means of transportation to being a worldwide recreational activity and sport, which branched out into other forms of skiing starting in the mid-1800s.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Lund|first=Morten|title=A Short History of Alpine Skiing|journal=Skiing Heritage|date=Winter 1996|volume=8|issue=1|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=glgEAAAAMBAJ|access-date=2015-06-29|archive-date=10 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610213312/https://books.google.com/books?id=glgEAAAAMBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0|url-status=live}}</ref>

Early skiers used one long pole or spear in addition to the skis. The first depiction of a skier with two [[ski pole]]s dates to 1741.<ref>{{cite book|last=Hergstrom|first=P|title=Beschreibung von dem unter schwedischer Krone gehörigen Lappland|year=1748|publisher=von Rother|location=Leipzig |language= de}}</ref> Traditional skis, used for snow travel in Norway and elsewhere into the 1800s, often comprised one short ski with a natural fur [[Ski skins|traction surface]], the ''andor'', and one long for gliding, the ''langski''—one being up to {{convert|100|cm|in|0|abbr=on}} longer than the other—allowing skiers to propel themselves with a scooter motion. This combination has a long history among the [[Sami people]]. Skis up to 280&nbsp;cm have been produced in Finland, and the longest recorded ski in Norway is 373&nbsp;cm.<ref name=Berg>{{Cite book | last = Berg | first = Karin | language = no | year = 1993 | title = Ski i Norge | isbn = 82-588-0951-2 | location = Oslo | publisher = Aventura – Skiforeningen | url = http://urn.nb.no/URN:NBN:no-nb_digibok_2010053106003 | access-date = 25 December 2015 | archive-date = 17 September 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200917131629/https://www.nb.no/items/URN:NBN:no-nb_digibok_2010053106003 | url-status = live }}</ref>

===Transportation===
[[File:Bundesarchiv Bild 102-12927, Riesengebirge, Reichswehrübung.jpg|thumb|German ''[[Reichswehr]]'' military patrol on skis training in the [[Karkonosze|Giant Mountains]], January 1932.]]
[[Ski warfare]], the use of ski-equipped troops in [[war]], is first recorded by the [[Denmark|Danish]] historian [[Saxo Grammaticus]] in the 13th century. These troops were reportedly able to cover distances comparable to that of light [[cavalry]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Magnus|first=Olaus|title=Historia de Gentibus Septentrionalibus|url=http://www.ub.uit.no/northernlights/eng/omagnus.htm|access-date=2012-09-25|archive-date=14 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130914071533/http://www.ub.uit.no/northernlights/eng/omagnus.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> The garrison in [[Trondheim]] used skis at least from 1675, and the Danish-Norwegian army included specialized skiing battalions from 1747—details of military ski exercises from 1767 are on record.<ref name=Bergsland>{{cite book |last= Bergsland |first= Einar |year= 1946 |title= På ski |location= Oslo |publisher= Aschehoug}}</ref> Skis were used in military exercises in 1747.<ref>{{cite book
 | last = Needham
 | first = Richard
 | title = Ski Magazine's Encyclopedia of Skiing
 | publisher = Harper & Row
 | date = 1979
 | location = New York
 | page = 452
 | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=12VYAAAAYAAJ&q=ski+pole
 | isbn = 978-0-06-014006-9
 | access-date = 17 September 2020
 | archive-date = 28 December 2019
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191228064123/https://books.google.com/books?id=12VYAAAAYAAJ&dq=SKI+Magazine%E2%80%99s+Encyclopedia+of+Skiing.+New+York%3A+Harper+%26+Row.+1979.&focus=searchwithinvolume&q=ski+pole
 | url-status = live
 }}</ref> In 1799 French traveller Jacques de la Tocnaye recorded his visit to Norway in his travel diary:<ref>{{cite book|last=de La Tocnaye|first=Jacques|title=Promenade d'un Français en Suède et en Norvège|year=1801|publisher=P.F. Fauche et Cie|location=Brunswick|language=fr}}</ref> Norwegian immigrants used skis ("Norwegian snowshoes") in the US midwest from around 1836. Norwegian immigrant "[[Snowshoe Thompson]]" transported mail by skiing across the Sierra Nevada between California and Nevada from 1856.<ref name=Saur/> In 1888 Norwegian explorer [[Fridtjof Nansen]] and his team crossed the Greenland icecap on skis. Norwegian workers on the [[Buenos Aires and Pacific Railway|Buenos Aires - Valparaiso railway line]] introduced skiing in South America around 1890.<ref name=Saur/> In 1910 [[Roald Amundsen]] used skis on his [[Amundsen's South Pole expedition|South Pole Expedition]]. In 1902 the Norwegian [[consul (representative)|consul]] in Kobe imported ski equipment and introduced skiing to the [[Japanese people|Japanese]], motivated by the death of Japanese soldiers during a snow storm.<ref name=Saur/> Starting in 1919, [[Vladimir Lenin]] helped popularize the activity in the Soviet Union.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Childs |first1=Olga |title=Russia's love/hate relationship with cross-country skiing |url=https://www.rbth.com/lifestyle/331769-russians-cross-country-skiing |website=Russia Beyond|date=2 March 2020 }}</ref>

===Sport===
[[File:Michal Malak at Tour de Ski retouched.jpg|Michal Malák skate-skis at a qualifier for the [[Tour de Ski]], 2007.|thumb|right]]
{{main article|Cross-country skiing (sport)}}
Norwegian skiing regiments organized military skiing contests in the 18th century, divided in four classes: shooting at a target while skiing at "top speed", downhill racing among trees, downhill racing on large slopes without falling, and "long racing" on "flat ground".<ref name=Bergsland/> An early record of a public ski competition occurred in [[Tromsø (city)|Tromsø]], 1843. In Norwegian, {{lang|no|langrenn}} refers to "competitive skiing where the goal is to complete a specific distance in groomed tracks in the shortest possible time". In Norway, ''ski touring competitions'' ({{langx|no|turrenn}}) are long-distance cross-country competitions open to the public, competition is usually within age intervals.<ref name=Idrettsleksikon/>

A new technique, [[skate skiing]], was experimented with early in the 20th Century, but was not widely adopted until the 1980s. [[Johan Grøttumsbråten]] used the skating technique at the [[FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 1931|1931 World Championship]] in Oberhof, one of the earliest recorded use of skating in competitive cross-country skiing.<ref name="Olav 1993">{{cite book |last= Bø |first= Olav |title= Skiing throughout history |others= W. Edson Richmond (trans.) |location= Oslo |publisher= Samlaget |year= 1993}}</ref> This technique was later used in ski orienteering in the 1960s on roads and other firm surfaces. It became widespread during the 1980s after the success of [[Bill Koch (skier)|Bill Koch]] ([[United States]]) in [[FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 1982|1982 Cross-country Skiing Championships]] drew more attention to the skating style. Norwegian skier [[Ove Aunli]] started using the technique in 1984, when he found it to be much faster than classic style.<ref>{{cite web | last = Bengtsson | first = Bengt Erik | title = Cross-country skating: How it started | work = Skiing History Magazine | publisher = International Skiing History Association | url = https://skiinghistory.org/history/cross-country-skating-how-it-started | access-date = 2014-10-20 | archive-date = 23 October 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141023051103/https://skiinghistory.org/history/cross-country-skating-how-it-started | url-status = live }}</ref> Finnish skier, [[Pauli Siitonen]], developed a one-sided variant of the style in the 1970s, leaving one ski in the track while skating to the side with the other one during endurance events;<ref name=marathonskate>{{Citation
 | last1 = Field
 | first1 = Patrick
 | last2 = Corradini
 | first2 = Angelo
 | title = Wordloppet Anniversary Book—30 years of skiing around the world (Skating, Siitonen and Koch)
 | work = Anniversary Book
 | publisher = World Loppet Ski Foundation
 | editor-last = Paal
 | editor-first = Epp
 | editor-last2 = Corradini
 | editor-first2 = Angelo
 | date = 2007
 | url = http://www.worldloppet.com/anniversary_book.php
 | access-date = 2015-01-04
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150703001512/http://www.worldloppet.com/anniversary_book.php
 | archive-date = 3 July 2015
 | url-status = dead
 }}</ref> this became known as the "marathon skate".<ref name="skixc1">{{cite web| title = Marathon Skate
 | work = Cross Country Ski Tips and Information
 | publisher = XCSki.com
 | date = 2010
 | url = http://www.skixc.com/skate-marathon.html
 | access-date = 2015-06-29
 | archive-date = 4 January 2015
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150104200809/http://www.skixc.com/skate-marathon.html
 | url-status = live
 }}</ref>

===Terminology===
[[File:NansenJohansen.jpg|thumb|right|Arctic travelers, [[Fridtjov Nansen]] and [[Hjalmar Johansen]] at the camp of [[Frederick George Jackson|Frederick Jackson]] on [[Northbrook Island]] in 1896.]]
The word ''ski'' comes from the [[Old Norse]] word {{lang|non|skíð}} which means "cleft wood", "stick of wood" or "ski".<ref>Caprona, Yann de: ''Norsk etymologisk ordbok''. Oslo: Kagge forlag, 2014. {{ISBN|9788248910541}}.</ref> Norwegian language does not use a verb-form equivalent in idiomatic speech, unlike English "to ski".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sprakradet.no/Vi-og-vart/Publikasjoner/Spraaknytt/Arkivet/spraknytt-2013/Spraknytt-12013/Spraknytt-40-ar/|title=Språknytt 40 år (1973–2013)|website=Språkrådet|language=no|access-date=2018-08-29|archive-date=29 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191229205338/https://www.sprakradet.no/Vi-og-vart/Publikasjoner/Spraaknytt/Arkivet/spraknytt-2013/Spraknytt-12013/Spraknytt-40-ar/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":1">Bleken, Brynjulv (1973). ''Riksmål og moderat bokmål: en sammenlignende oversikt.'' Oslo: Aschehoug. {{ISBN|8203053025}}.</ref> In modern [[Bokmål|Norwegian]], a variety of terms refer to cross-country skiing, including:<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.nob-ordbok.uio.no |title= Nynorskordboka og Bokmålsordboka |publisher= Språkrådet (Language Council of Norway) and University of Oslo |type= database search |access-date= 2014-10-14 |url-status= dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140921001329/http://www.nob-ordbok.uio.no/ |archive-date= 21 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last= Follestad |first= Sverre |title= Engelske idiomer. Ord og vendinger fra norsk til engelsk |location= Oslo |publisher= Kunnskapsforlaget |year= 1993}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last= Kirkeby |first= Willy A. |title= English-Norwegian Dictionary |location= Oslo |publisher= Universitetsforlaget |year= 1998}}</ref>

* {{lang|no|gå på ski}} (literally "walk on skis")—a general term for self-propelled skiing
* {{lang|no|turgåing på ski}} (literally "hiking on skis")—refers to ski touring as recreation
* {{lang|no|langrenn}} (literally "long race")—refers to cross-country ski racing

In contrast, alpine skiing is referred to as {{lang|no|stå på ski}} (literally "stand on skis").

[[Fridtjof Nansen]], describes the crossing of Greenland as {{lang|no|På ski over Grønland}}, literally "On skis across Greenland",<ref>{{cite book |last= Nansen |first= Fridtjof |title= Paa ski over Grønland. En skildring af Den norske Grønlands-ekspedition 1888–89 |location= Kristiania |publisher= Aschehoug}}</ref> while the English edition of the report was titled, ''The first crossing of Greenland''. Nansen referred to the activity of traversing snow on skis as {{langx|no|skilöbning}} (he used the term also in the English translation), which may be translated as ''ski running''. Nansen used {{lang|no|skilöbning}}, regarding all forms of skiing, but noted that ski jumping is purely a competitive sport and not for amateurs. He further noted that in some competitions the skier "is also required to show his skill in turning his ski to one side or the other within given marks" at full speed on a steep hill. Nansen regarded these forms (i.e., jumping and slalom) as "special arts", and believed that the most important branch of skiing was travel "in an ordinary way across the country".<ref>{{cite book |last= Nansen |first= Fridtjof |title= The first crossing of Greenland |url= https://archive.org/details/firstcrossingofg02nans |location= London |publisher= Longmans, Green and Co. |year= 1890}}</ref> In Germany, Nansen's Greenland report was published as {{lang|de|Auf Schneeschuhen durch Grönland}} (literally "On snowshoes through Greenland").<ref>{{cite book |last= Nansen |first= Fridtjov |title= Auf Schneeschuhen durch Grönland |publisher= autorisirte deutsche Uebersetzung von M. Mann |location= Hamburg |year= 1891}}</ref> The German term, {{lang|de|Schneeschuh}}, was supplanted by the borrowed Norwegian word, {{lang|de|Ski}}, in the late 19th century.<ref name=Vaage/> The Norwegian encyclopedia of sports also uses the term, {{lang|no|skiløping}}, (literally "ski running") for all forms of skiing.<ref name=Idrettsleksikon/> Around 1900 the word {{lang|de|Skilaufen}} was used in German in the same sense as {{langx|no|skiløping}}.<ref name=Vaage>{{cite book |last= Vaage |first= Jacob |title= Norske ski erobrer verden |location= Oslo |publisher= Gyldendal |year= 1952}}</ref>

==Recreation==
[[File:Påske.jpg|thumb|right|Ski touring in untracked terrain.]]
Recreational cross-country skiing includes [[ski touring]] and groomed-trail skiing, typically at resorts or in parklands. It is an accessible form of recreation for persons with [[Ski for Light|vision and mobility impairments]]. A related form of recreation is [[Skijoring#Dog skijoring|dog skijoring]]—a winter sport where a cross-country skier is assisted by one or more dogs.

===Ski touring===
[[Ski touring]] takes place off-[[piste]] and outside of [[ski resorts]]. Tours may extend over multiple days. Typically, [[ski]]s, [[ski bindings|bindings]], and [[ski boot|boots]] allow for free movement of the heel to enable a walking pace, as with [[Nordic skiing|Nordic disciplines]] and unlike [[Alpine skiing]].<ref name=branigan>{{cite book|title= A Complete Guide to Alpine Ski Touring Ski Mountaineering and Nordic Ski Touring Including Useful Information for Off Piste Skiers and Snow Boarders|date= 2014|publisher= Authorhouse|isbn= 978-1-4918-8808-7|page= xvii}}</ref> Ski touring's subgenre [[ski mountaineering]] involves independently navigating and route finding through potential [[avalanche]] terrain and often requires familiarity with [[meteorology]] along with skiing skills. Ski touring can be faster and easier than summer [[hiking]] in some terrain, allowing for traverses and ascents that would be harder in the summer. Skis can also be used to access backcountry alpine climbing routes when snow is off the technical route, but still covers the hiking trail. In some countries, organizations maintain a network of huts for use by cross-country skiers in wintertime. For example, the [[Norwegian Trekking Association]] maintains over 400 huts stretching across thousands of kilometres of trails which hikers can use in the summer and skiers in the winter.<ref name=volken>{{cite book|last1= Volken|first1= Martin|last2= Schnell|first2= Scott|last3= Wheeler|first3= Margaret|title= Backcountry Skiing: Skills for Ski Touring and Ski Mountaineering|date= 2007|publisher= Mountaineers Books|isbn= 978-1-59485-038-7|page= [https://archive.org/details/backcountryskiin00volk/page/12 12]|url= https://archive.org/details/backcountryskiin00volk/page/12|access-date= 2014-07-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title = DNT routes
 | work = Routes and cabins
 | publisher = The Norwegian Trekking Association
 | date = 2015
 | url = http://english.turistforeningen.no/index.php?fo_id=3982
 | access-date = 2015-06-29
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150901154948/http://english.turistforeningen.no/index.php?fo_id=3982
 | archive-date = 1 September 2015
 | url-status = dead
 }}</ref>

===Groomed-trail skiing===
{{main article|Cross-country skiing trail}}
[[File:Loipe am Mordfleck.jpg|thumb|right|Groomed ski trails for cross-country in [[Thuringia]], track-set for classic skiing at the sides and groomed for skate skiing in the center.]]
[[snow grooming|Groomed]] trail skiing occurs at facilities such as [[Nordmarka]] (Oslo), [[Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort]] and [[Gatineau Park]] in [[Quebec]], where trails are laid out and groomed for both classic and skate-skiing. Such grooming and track setting (for classic technique) requires specialized equipment and techniques that adapt to the condition of the snow. Trail preparation employs snow machines which tow snow-compaction, texturing and track-setting devices. Groomers must adapt such equipment to the condition of the snow—crystal structure, temperature, degree of compaction, moisture content, etc. Depending on the initial condition of the snow, grooming may achieve an increase in density for new-fallen snow or a decrease in density for icy or compacted snow. Cross-country ski facilities may incorporate a course design that meets [[homologation]] standards for such organizations as the International Olympic Committee, the International Ski Federation, or national standards. Standards address course distances, [[degree of difficulty]] with maximums in elevation difference and steepness—both up and downhill, plus other factors.<ref name=CanadianManual>{{cite web 
| last = Thomson 
| first = Jim 
| title = A Technical Manual for the Organization of Cross Country Ski Events 
| work = Officials' Manual Version 3.4 
| publisher = Cross Country Canada 
| date = November 2009 
| url = http://www.cccski.com/getmedia/79317bda-f719-4390-a8cd-a7636ef63ba9/CompetitionOfficialsHandbookv34.pdf.aspx 
| access-date = 2014-10-21 
| archive-date = 13 February 2014 
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140213025325/http://www.cccski.com/getmedia/79317bda-f719-4390-a8cd-a7636ef63ba9/CompetitionOfficialsHandbookv34.pdf.aspx 
| url-status = live 
}}</ref>
Some facilities have night-time lighting on select trails—called ''[[Elljusspår|lysløype]]'' (light trails) in Norwegian and ''[[elljusspår]]'' (electric-light trails) in Swedish. The first ''lysløype'' opened in 1946 in Nordmarka and at Byåsen ([[Trondheim]]).<ref>
{{cite book 
| title= Kunnskapsforlagets idrettsleksikon 
| trans-title= Encyclopedia of Sports 
| language= no | location=Oslo 
| publisher= Kunnskapsforlaget 
| year= 1990 | isbn= 82-573-0408-5
| page = 197
}}
</ref>

==Competition==
{{Main article|Cross-country skiing (sport)}}
Cross-country ski competition encompasses a variety of formats for races over courses of varying lengths according to rules sanctioned by the [[International Ski and Snowboard Federation]] (FIS) and by national organizations, such as the [[U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association]]<ref>{{cite web | last = Directors | title = Cross Country Sport Committee | work = USSA Programs | publisher = U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) | date = 2012 | url = http://ussa.org/ussa/cross-country-sport-committee | access-date = 2014-11-04 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141105103943/http://ussa.org/ussa/cross-country-sport-committee | archive-date = 5 November 2014 | url-status = dead}}</ref> and Cross Country Ski Canada.<ref>{{cite web | last = Directors | title = Rules and Regulations | publisher = Cross Country Ski Canada | date = 2012 | url = http://www.cccski.com/Events/Rules-and-Regulations.aspx | access-date = 2014-11-04 | archive-date = 23 October 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141023142758/http://www.cccski.com/Events/Rules-and-Regulations.aspx | url-status = dead }}</ref> It also encompasses cross-country [[ski marathon]] events, sanctioned by the [[Worldloppet Ski Federation]], cross-country [[ski orienteering]] events, sanctioned by the [[International Orienteering Federation]], and Paralympic cross-country skiing, sanctioned by the [[International Paralympic Committee]].

===FIS-sanctioned competition===
[[File:Anna Haag 2011-02-28.jpg|Swede [[Anna Haag]] with classic technique in the women's 10&nbsp;km classic race at the [[:en:FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 2011|2011 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships]] in Oslo, Norway.|thumb|right]]
The [[FIS Nordic World Ski Championships]] have been held in various numbers and types of events since 1925 for men and since 1954 for women. From 1924 to 1939, the World Championships were held every year, including the [[Winter Olympic Games]]. After World War II, the World Championships were held every four years from 1950 to 1982. Since 1985, the World Championships have been held in odd-numbered years.<ref name=FIS>{{cite web| title = FIS History | work = About FIS | publisher = International Ski Federation | url = http://www.fis-ski.com/inside-fis/about/fis-history/snowsports/ | access-date = 2014-10-23 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140807205119/http://www.fis-ski.com/inside-fis/about/fis-history/snowsports/ | archive-date = 7 August 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Notable cross-country ski competitions include the Winter Olympics, the [[FIS Nordic World Ski Championships]], and the FIS World Cup events (including the [[Holmenkollen ski jump|Holmenkollen]]).

===Other sanctioned competition===
[[Ski marathon|Cross-country ski marathons]]—races with distances greater than 40 kilometers—have two cup series, the [[Cross-country skiing (sport)#Ski Classics series|Ski Classics]], which started in 2011,<ref>{{cite web
 | url = http://www.vismaskiclassics.com
 | title = Visma Ski Classics
 | last = Nilsson
 | first = David
 | date = 2015
 | access-date = 2015-12-15
 | archive-date = 13 May 2020
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200513191140/https://vismaskiclassics.com/
 | url-status = live
 }}</ref> and the [[Cross-country skiing (sport)#Worldloppet series|Worldloppet]].<ref name=Worldloppet/> Skiers race in classic or free-style (skating) events, depending on the rules of the race. Notable [[Worldloppet Ski Federation|ski marathons]], include the ''[[Vasaloppet]]'' in [[Sweden]], ''[[Birkebeinerrennet|Birkebeineren]]'' in Norway, the [[Tartu Maraton]] in [[Estonia]], the [[Engadin Skimarathon]] in [[Switzerland]], the [[American Birkebeiner]], the [[Tour of Anchorage]] in [[Anchorage]], [[Alaska]], and the [[Boreal Loppet]], held in [[Forestville, Quebec]], Canada.<ref name=Worldloppet>{{cite web| title = What is Worldloppet? | publisher = Worldloppet Ski Federation | date = 2012 | url = http://www.worldloppet.com/what_is_worldloppet.php | access-date = 2014-10-23 | archive-date = 25 October 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141025111411/http://www.worldloppet.com/what_is_worldloppet.php | url-status = live }}</ref>

[[Biathlon]] combines cross-country skiing and [[shooting sport|rifle shooting]]. Depending on the shooting performance, extra distance or time is added to the contestant's total running distance/time. For each shooting round, the biathlete must hit five targets; the skier receives a penalty for each missed target, which varies according to the competition rules.<ref>{{cite web | last = IBU Congress | title = IBU Event and Competition Rules | work = Rules adopted by the 2012 10th Regular IBU Congress | publisher = International Biathlon Union | date = 2012 | url = http://www.biathlonworld.com/media/download/Handbook_event_and_competition_rules.pdf | access-date = 2015-06-29 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150923184852/http://www.biathlonworld.com/media/download/Handbook_event_and_competition_rules.pdf | archive-date = 23 September 2015}}</ref>

[[Ski orienteering]] is a form of cross-country skiing competition that requires navigation in a landscape, making optimal route choices at racing speeds. Standard [[orienteering map]]s are used, but with special green overprinting of trails and tracks to indicate their [[Navigate|navigability]] in [[snow]]; other symbols indicate whether any roads are snow-covered or clear. Standard skate-skiing equipment is used, along with a map holder attached to the chest. It is one of the four [[orienteering]] disciplines [[Sport governing body|recognized]] by the [[International Orienteering Federation]]. Upper body strength is especially important because of frequent double poling along narrow snow trails.<ref>{{cite web| title = Ski Orienteering
 | publisher = International Orienteering Federation
 | date = 2011
 | url = http://orienteering.org/ski-orienteering/
 | access-date = 2015-06-29
 | archive-date = 17 July 2015
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150717082430/http://orienteering.org/ski-orienteering/
 | url-status = live
 }}</ref>

[[Paralympic cross-country skiing|Paralympic cross-country ski competition]] is an adaptation of cross-country skiing for athletes with disabilities. Paralympic cross-country skiing includes standing events, sitting events (for wheelchair users), and events for visually impaired athletes under the rules of the [[International Paralympic Committee]]. These are divided into several categories for people who are missing limbs, have amputations, are blind, or have any other physical disability, to continue their sport.<ref name = "Nordic Skiing Classification">{{cite web | last = IPC | title = Nordic Skiing Classification | work = IPC Cross-Country Skiing and Biathlon | publisher = International Paralympic Committee | date = 2013 | url = http://www.paralympic.org/nordic-skiing/rules-and-regulations/classification | access-date = 2014-10-04 | archive-date = 4 December 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141204023805/http://www.paralympic.org/nordic-skiing/rules-and-regulations/classification | url-status = live }}</ref>

==Techniques==
[[File:Rotchev-veerpalu-2006.jpg|Skiers employing step turns, while descending during a 2006 FIS World Cup Cross Country competition in Otepää, [[Estonia]].|thumb|right]]
[[file:Skiing In The Kauppi.webm|thumb|Video of skiers demonstrating a variety of techniques.]]
Cross-country skiing has two basic propulsion techniques, which apply to different surfaces: classic (undisturbed snow and tracked snow) and skate skiing (firm, smooth snow surfaces). The classic technique relies on a [[Ski wax|wax]] or texture on the ski bottom under the foot for [[Traction (engineering)|traction]] on the snow to allow the skier to slide the other ski forward in virgin or tracked snow. With the skate skiing technique a skier slides on alternating skis on a firm snow surface at an angle from each other in a manner similar to ice skating. Both techniques employ poles with baskets that allow the arms to participate in the propulsion. Specialized equipment is adapted to each technique and each type of terrain. A variety of turns are used, when descending.<ref name="Rees"/>

Poles contribute to forward propulsion, either simultaneously (usual for the skate technique) or in alternating sequence (common for the classical technique as the "diagonal stride"). Double poling is also used with the classical technique when higher speed can be achieved on flats and slight downhills than is available in the diagonal stride, which is favored to achieve higher power going uphill.<ref name="Rees"/><ref name=pole/>

===Classic===
The classic style is often used on prepared trails (pistes) that have pairs of parallel grooves (tracks) cut into the snow. It is also the most usual technique where no tracks have been prepared. With this technique, each ski is pushed forward from the other stationary ski in a striding and gliding motion, alternating foot to foot. With the "diagonal stride" variant the poles are planted alternately on the opposite side of the forward-striding foot; with the "kick-double-pole" variant the poles are planted simultaneously with every other stride. At times, especially with gentle descents, double poling is the sole means of propulsion.<ref name="Rees">{{Cite book | edition = 3d | publisher = Copp C. Pitman | isbn = 978-0-7730-4045-8 | oclc = 300405310 | last = Rees | first = David| title = Cross-country skiing: touring and competition | location = Toronto | year = 1981}}</ref> On uphill terrain, techniques include the "side step" for steep slopes, moving the skis perpendicular to the fall line, the "herringbone" for moderate slopes, where the skier takes alternating steps with the skis splayed outwards, and, for gentle slopes, the skier uses the diagonal technique with shorter strides and greater arm force on the poles.<ref name="Rees"/>

===Skate skiing===
{{Main articles|Skate skiing}}
With skate skiing, the skier provides propulsion on a smooth, firm snow surface by pushing alternating skis away from one another at an angle, in a manner similar to [[ice skating]]. Skate-skiing usually involves a coordinated use of poles and the upper body to add impetus. Three common techniques are "V1", "V2" and "V2 alternate". In "V1" the skier pushes with a double pole plant each time the ski is extended on a temporarily "dominant" side, this technique is optimal for climbing. In "V2 alternate" the skier performs the double pole plant before the "dominant" ski is extended, this technique allows for maintaining a higher speed and is often used on slightly downhill terrain. In "V2" the skier performs the double pole plant each time the ski is extended on either side, on flat ground and in slight inclines this technique is often the fastest and most efficient of the 3. Skiers climb hills with these techniques by widening the angle of the "V" and by making more frequent, shorter strides and more forceful use of poles.<ref>{{cite web | last = Hindman | first = Steve | title = Technique & Training: Three steps to skating | work = Cross Country Skier Magazine | date = December 2008 | url = http://www.crosscountryskier.com/magazine/08_dec/technique.htm | access-date = 2014-10-20 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141017042359/http://www.crosscountryskier.com/magazine/08_dec/technique.htm | archive-date = 17 October 2014}}</ref> A variant of the technique is the "marathon skate" or "Siitonen step", where the skier leaves one ski in the track while skating outwards to the side with the other ski.<ref name="skixc1"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://crosscountryskitechnique.com/the-early-development-of-skate-skiing/|title=Swedish Olympic Champion Recalls the Early Development of Skate Skiing – Cross Country Ski Technique|language=en-US|access-date=2019-02-18|archive-date=19 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190219020144/http://crosscountryskitechnique.com/the-early-development-of-skate-skiing/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Turns===
Turns, used while descending or for braking, include the [[snowplough turn|snowplough]] (or "wedge turn"),<ref name=PSIA>{{cite web | last = PSIA Standards Committee | title = Cross Country Certification Standards 2014 | publisher = Professional Ski Instructors of America | date = June 2014 | url = http://www.psia-nw.org/wp-content/uploads/PSIA_XC_Standards-2014_FINAL.pdf | access-date = 2014-10-22 | archive-date = 7 November 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161107220555/http://www.psia-nw.org/wp-content/uploads/PSIA_XC_Standards-2014_FINAL.pdf | url-status = live }}</ref> the [[stem christie]] (or "wedge christie"),<ref name=PSIA/> [[parallel turn]], and the [[Telemark turn]]. The step turn is used for maintaining speed during descents or out of track on flats.<ref name=Telemark>{{cite news | last = Fabricant | first = Florence | title = The Novice; Mastering the Practical Curtsy, on Skis | work = The New York Times | date = 26 January 1999 | url = https://www.nytimes.com/1999/01/26/health/the-novice-mastering-the-practical-curtsy-on-skis.html | access-date = 2014-10-21 | archive-date = 3 January 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170103080909/http://www.nytimes.com/1999/01/26/health/the-novice-mastering-the-practical-curtsy-on-skis.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name=Turns>{{cite web | last = Hindman | first = Steve | title = Going Downhill | department = Training & Technique | work = Cross Country Skier Magazine | date = 2003 | url = http://www.crosscountryskier.com/training_technique_jan_2003.html | access-date = 2014-10-21 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141023045014/http://www.crosscountryskier.com/training_technique_jan_2003.html | archive-date = 23 October 2014}}</ref>

==Equipment==
[[File:108 Frognersæteren - no-nb digifoto 20150914 00046 bldsa PK02744.jpg|thumb|Pre-1940 ski gear in Oslo: bamboo poles, wooden skis, and [[cable binding]]s.]]
Equipment comprises skis, poles, boots and bindings; these vary according to:
* Technique, classic vs skate
* Terrain, which may vary from groomed trails to wilderness
* Performance level, from recreational use to competition at the elite level<ref name="Rees"/>

===Skis===
{{main article|Ski}}
[[File:Cross-country equipment--Skate and Classic.jpg|thumb|Cross-country ski equipment for skate-skiing (left) and classic-style skiing (right). Ski and pole lengths are different for each. Classic skis have a "grip zone" in the area under the binding.]]
Skis used in cross-country are lighter and narrower than those used in [[alpine skiing]]. Ski bottoms are designed to provide a gliding surface and, for classic skis, a traction zone under foot. The base of the gliding surface is a plastic material that is designed both to minimize friction and, in many cases, to accept waxes.<ref name=oly>{{cite web|title=Cross Country Skiing Equipment and History|url=http://www.olympic.org/cross-country-skiing-equipment-and-history?tab=history|publisher=International Olympic Committee|access-date=2014-10-11|archive-date=16 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141016185653/http://www.olympic.org/cross-country-skiing-equipment-and-history?tab=history|url-status=live}}</ref> Glide wax may be used on the tails and tips of classic skis and across the length of skate skis.<ref name="Rees"/><ref name=mec>{{cite web|title=Cross Country Skis (Nordic Skis)|url=http://www.mec.ca/AST/ContentPrimary/Learn/Snowsports/SkisBootsAndSkins/NordicSkis.jsp|website=MEC|publisher=Mountain Equipment Coop|access-date=2014-10-19|archive-date=13 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120813113907/http://www.mec.ca/AST/ContentPrimary/Learn/Snowsports/SkisBootsAndSkins/NordicSkis.jsp|url-status=live}}</ref>

====Types====
Each type of ski is sized and designed differently. Length affects maneuverability; camber affects pressure on the snow beneath the feet of the skier; side-cut affects the ease of turning; width affects forward friction; overall area on the snow affects bearing capacity; and tip geometry affects the ability to penetrate new snow or to stay in a track.<ref name = SnowCountry>{{Citation
 | last = Woodward
 | first = Bob
 | title = Cross Country's Short Story
 | journal = Snow Country
 | volume = 8
 | issue = 1
 | pages = 127–132
 | date = January 1995
 | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=rEEo8WqmRRsC&q=Cross-country+ski+design&pg=PA127
 | access-date = 2016-01-05
 | issn = 0896-758X
 | archive-date = 6 May 2016
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160506044107/https://books.google.com/books?id=rEEo8WqmRRsC&pg=PA127&dq=Cross-country+ski+design&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwir44ns15PKAhVChhoKHdIWC4kQ6AEIRzAJ#v=onepage&q=Cross-country%20ski%20design&f=false
 | url-status = live
 }}</ref> Each of the following ski types has a different combination of these attributes:
* '''Classic skis''': Designed for skiing in tracks. For adult skiers (between 155&nbsp;cm/50&nbsp;kg and 185&nbsp;cm/75&nbsp;kg), recommended lengths are between 180 and 210 centimetres (approximately 115% of the skier's height). Traction comes from a "grip zone" underfoot that when bearing the skier's weight engages either a textured gripping surface or a grip wax. Accordingly, these skis are classified as "waxable" or "waxless". Recreational waxless skis generally require little attention and are adapted for casual use. Waxable skis, if prepared correctly, provide better grip and glide.<ref name="Rees"/><ref name="Bergin">{{cite web|url = http://www.snocountry.com/article.php/20041227133240622 |title = Back to Basics: A Quick Look at Paste Waxes, Waxless Ski Preparation and Kick Waxing|access-date = 2009-01-25|last = Bergin|first = Ron |year = 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070402051820/http://www.snocountry.com/article.php/20041227133240622 |archive-date = 2 April 2007}}</ref><ref name="REIAdvice">{{cite web|url = http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/crosscountry-ski-touring-gear.html|title = Cross-Country Ski Gear: How to Choose|access-date = 2015-06-29|last = Recreational Equipment, Inc.|year = 2015|archive-date = 16 May 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150516163933/http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/crosscountry-ski-touring-gear.html|url-status = live}}</ref>

:When the skier's weight is distributed on both skis, the ski's [[wikt:camber|camber]] diminishes the pressure of the grip zone on the snow and promotes bearing on the remaining area of the ski—the "glide zone". A test for stiffness of camber is made with a piece of paper under the skier's foot, standing on skis on a flat, hard surface—the paper should be pinned throughout the grip zone of the ski on which all the skier's weight is placed, but slide freely when the skier's weight is bearing equally on both skis.<ref name = Mountaineers/>
* '''Skate skis''': Designed for skiing on groomed surfaces. The usual recommended length is skier length +5-15cm.  The entire bottom of each skate ski is a glide zone—prepared for maximum glide. Traction comes from the skier pushing away from the edge of the previous ski onto the next ski.<ref name="Rees"/>
* '''Back country skis''': Designed for [[ski touring]] on natural snow conditions. Recommended lengths are between 150 and 195 centimeters for adult skiers, depending on height and weight of the user. Back country skis are typically heavier and wider than classic and skate skis; they often have metal edges for better grip on hard snow; and their greater [[sidecut]] helps to carve turns.<ref name=Berg/><ref>{{cite web| title = How to choose the right ski length | work = Back Country | date = 2 September 2013 | url = http://www.backcountry.com/explore/how-to-pick-the-right-ski-length | access-date = 2014-10-22 | archive-date = 23 October 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141023055824/http://www.backcountry.com/explore/how-to-pick-the-right-ski-length | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name=Melbye/>

:The geometry of a back country ski depends on its purpose—skis suited for forested areas where loose powder can predominate may be shorter and wider than those selected for open, exposed areas where compacted snow may prevail. Sidecut on Telemark skis promotes turning in forest and rugged terrain. Width and short length aid turning in loose and deep snow. Longer, narrower and more rigid skis with sharp edges are suited for snow that has been compacted by wind or freeze-thaw. Touring ski design may represent a general-purpose compromise among these different ski conditions, plus being acceptable for use in groomed tracks.<!---We don't see these terms in English: (referred to as mountain skis or crust skis)---> Traction may come from a textured or waxed grip zone, as with classic skis, or from [[ski skins]], which are applied to the ski bottom for long, steep ascents and have hairs or mechanical texture that prevents sliding backwards.<ref name=Berg/><ref name=Melbye>{{cite book|last1=Melbye|first1=Mats|title=Friluftsliv i vinterfjellet|date=1997|publisher=Universitetsforlaget|location=Oslo|isbn=82-00-42088-4|pages=31–32}}</ref>

====Gliding surface====
{{main article|Ski wax#Glide wax}}
Glide waxes enhance the speed of the gliding surface. The wax is either melted on the base using an iron or applied in a liquid form. The excess wax is first scraped off and then finished by brushing. Most glide waxes are based on [[Paraffin wax|paraffin]] that is combined with additive materials. The paraffin hardness and additives are varied based on snow type, humidity and temperature. Since the 2021-2022 race season, fluorinated products are banned in FIS sanctioned competitions.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Flourinated Wax Ban implementation to begin in the 2021-22 season|url=https://www.fis-ski.com/en/international-ski-federation/news-multimedia/news/flourinated-wax-ban-implementation-to-begin-in-the-2021-22-season|access-date=2021-11-05|website=www.fis-ski.com|language=en}}</ref> Before the ban, most race waxes combined fluorinated hydrocarbon waxes with [[fluorocarbon]] overlays.<ref>{{cite web |last=Harvey |first=Ian |date=9 February 2011 |title=Information on Fluorinated Waxes |url=http://www.nordicskiracer.com/news.asp?NewsID=5429 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425075240/http://www.nordicskiracer.com/news.asp?NewsID=5429 |archive-date=25 April 2012 |access-date=2014-10-21 |work=A Michigan Nordic Ski Racer}}</ref> Fluorocarbons decrease surface tension and surface area of the water between the ski and the snow, increasing speed and glide of the ski under specific conditions. Either combined with the wax or applied after in a spray, powder, or block form, fluorocarbons significantly improve the glide of the ski.<ref>{{cite web |last=Swix |date=22 February 2011 |title=Information on Fluorinated Waxes |url=http://www.nordicskiracer.com/news.asp?NewsID=5482 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425080020/http://www.nordicskiracer.com/news.asp?NewsID=5482 |archive-date=25 April 2012 |access-date=2014-10-21 |work=A Michigan Nordic Ski Racer}}</ref>

====Traction surface====
{{main article|Ski wax#Grip wax}}
Skis designed for classic technique, both in track and in virgin snow, rely on a traction zone, called the "grip zone" or "kick zone", underfoot. This comes either from a) ''texture'', such as "[[fish scale]]s" or [[mohair]] skins,<ref>{{Cite web|last=Jhung|first=Lisa|date=2020-12-05|title=This Is the Winter to Invest in Cross-Country Skis|url=https://www.outsideonline.com/2419169/how-buy-cross-country-skis|access-date=2021-03-02|website=Outside Online|language=en}}</ref> designed to slide forward but not backwards, that is built into the grip zone of waxless skis, or from applied devices, e.g. [[Ski skins|climbing skins]], or b) from ''grip waxes''. [[Ski wax#Grip wax|Grip waxes]] are classified according to their hardness: harder waxes are for colder and newer snow. An incorrect choice of grip wax for the snow conditions encountered may cause ski slippage (wax too hard for the conditions) or snow sticking to the grip zone (wax too soft for the conditions).<ref name="Rees"/> Grip waxes generate grip by interacting with snow crystals, which vary with temperature, age and compaction.<ref name="Rees"/> Hard grip waxes do not work well for snow which has metamorphosed to having coarse grains, whether icy or wet. In these conditions, skiers opt for a stickier substance, called ''klister''.<ref name="Rees"/>

===Boots and bindings===
[[File:Cross-country ski boot and binding system--Classic.jpg|thumb|Cross-country ski boot and ''standardized'' binding system for classic skiing. The skier clicks the toe of the boot into the binding and releases with the button in front of the boot.]]
[[Ski boots]] are attached to the ski only at the toe, leaving the heel free. Depending on application, boots may be lightweight (performance skiing) or heavier and more supportive (back-country skiing).<ref name=Boot-binding/>

[[Ski binding|Bindings]] connect the boot to the ski. There are three primary groups of [[Nordic Integrated System|binding systems]] used in cross-country skiing (in descending order of importance):<ref name=Boot-binding>{{cite web | last = Dzierzak | first = Lou | title = Cross country skiers venture off track | department = On the Wild Side | work = Cross Country Skier Magazine | date = November 2008 | url = http://www.crosscountryskier.com/magazine/08_nov/wild_side.htm | access-date = 2014-10-21 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150302164504/http://www.crosscountryskier.com/magazine/08_nov/wild_side.htm | archive-date = 2 March 2015}}</ref>
* '''Standardized system''': Boots and bindings have an integrated connection, typically a bar across the front end of the sole of the boot, and platform on which the boot rests. Two families of standards prevail: NNN (New Nordic Norm) and SNS (Salomon Nordic System) Profil. Both systems have variants for skiing on groomed surfaces and in back country. These systems are the most common type of binding.
* '''Three-pin''': The boot-gripping system comprises three pins that correspond to three holes in the sole of the boot's toe, used primarily for back-country skiing.
* '''Cable''': A [[Cable binding|cable]] secures the free-moving heel and keeps the toe of the boot pushed into a boot-gripping section, used primarily for back-country and telemark skiing.

===Poles===
{{main article|Ski pole}}
Ski poles are used for balance and propulsion. Modern cross-country ski poles are made from [[aluminium]], [[fibreglass-reinforced plastic]], or [[carbon fibre]], depending on weight, cost and performance parameters. Formerly they were made of wood or [[bamboo]].  They feature a foot (called a basket) near the end of the shaft that provides a pushing platform, as it makes contact with the snow. Baskets vary in size, according to the expected softness/firmness of the snow. Racing poles feature smaller, lighter baskets than recreational poles. Poles designed for skating are longer than those designed for classic skiing.<ref name=pole>{{cite web | last = Hindman | first = Steve | title = Poling Principles | department = Training & Technique | work = Cross Country Skier | date = February 2004 | url = http://www.crosscountryskier.com/training_technique_feb_2004.html | access-date = 2014-11-18 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141129024911/http://www.crosscountryskier.com/training_technique_feb_2004.html | archive-date = 29 November 2014}}</ref> Traditional skiing in the 1800s used a single pole for both cross-country and downhill. The single pole was longer and stronger than the poles that are used in pairs. In competitive cross-country poles in pairs were introduced around 1900.<ref name= Aftenposten>{{cite news
 | last = Brugge
 | first = Mette
 | title = Skistavens historie: Hjelpemiddel og bråkmaker
 | newspaper = [[Aftenposten]]
 | location = Oslo
 | pages = 14
 | language = no
 | date = 20 December 2015
 | url = http://www.aftenposten.no/fakta/innsikt/Skistavens-historie-Hjelpemiddel-og-brakmaker-8288452.html
 | access-date = 2015-12-22
 | archive-date = 23 December 2015
 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151223141051/http://www.aftenposten.no/fakta/innsikt/Skistavens-historie-Hjelpemiddel-og-brakmaker-8288452.html
 | url-status = live
 }}</ref>

==Gallery==
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150px">
Image:Skigudinne.jpg|An early depiction of a skier—a [[Sami people|Sami]] woman or goddess hunting on skis by [[Olaus Magnus]] (1553).
File:Birkebeinerne ski01.jpg|Loyal retainers transporting [[Haakon IV of Norway|Prince Haakon IV]] of Norway to safety on skis during the winter of 1206—1869 depiction by [[Knud Bergslien]].
File:138. Kronprins Olav - no-nb digifoto 20150710 00006 bldsa pk kgl0061.jpg|[[Olav V of Norway]] as crown-prince in 1939
Image:olympic skier in ice storm.jpg|A skate-skier in [[Gatineau Park]], [[Quebec]], a North American groomed-trail ski venue.
File:AchenseeWinter01.JPG|A recreational cross-country trail, groomed for classic skiing only, in [[Tyrol (state)|Tyrol]].
File:Blind skier and guide.jpg|A blind cross-country skier with guide at a regional [[Ski for Light]] event.
File:Skijor worlds.jpg|Dog skijoring—dogs provide added propulsion to the cross-country skier.
</gallery>

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Cross-country skiing}}
{{wikivoyage|Cross-country skiing}}
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gqb09bLVdoM Tutorial on classic style.]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUBGWDUM4Ck Tutorial on skate skiing.]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rGOKDjTZEs Tutorial on the snowplough or wedge turn.]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKamE8Zvtuk Tutorial on the stem or wedge christie turn.]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1U8jiKghcAg Tutorial on the Telemark turn.]
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yRGLRAR7QI Tutorial on the step turn.]

{{Skiing}}
{{Human-powered vehicles}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Cross-country skiing| ]]
[[Category:Nordic skiing]]