Section 2: Equipment
2.1 Skis
- Classic skis: Minimum length = competitor’s height minus 20 cm. Maximum width 48 mm (1.89 in). Feature a “wax pocket” or “kick zone” under the foot for grip wax or mechanical grip patterns (fish scales, skin inserts). Relatively soft flex to engage the kick zone underfoot.
- Skating skis: Minimum length = competitor’s height minus 10 cm. No maximum width restriction. Full glide base (no kick zone). Stiffer camber than classic skis for edge-to-edge stability during skating pushoff.
- Ski base material: Sintered polyethylene (P-Tex), stone-ground for optimal glide structure matching snow conditions
- Binding system: Must be FIS-approved. Common systems: NNN (New Nordic Norm), SNS (Salomon Nordic System), Turnamic, Prolink
2.2 Poles
- Classic: Maximum pole length = 83% of body height (measured with the athlete standing in ski boots on a flat surface)
- Skating: Maximum pole length = 100% of body height
- Pole baskets must not exceed 100 cm² (15.5 in²) in area
- Carbon fiber or composite construction standard at elite level; aluminum for entry-level
- Pole straps must be detachable under load for safety (prevents wrist injury in falls)
2.3 Boots and Clothing
- Classic boots: Low-cut, flexible sole for ankle articulation during diagonal stride
- Skating boots: High-cuff design with ankle support for lateral stability during skating push
- Must be commercially available models (no custom prototypes at World Cup level without prior FIS approval)
- Race suit: One-piece or two-piece lycra suit. No aerodynamic aids, fairings, or modifications. Bib number worn over suit.
- Gloves, hat/headband, and sunglasses/goggles as conditions require
2.4 Waxing and Fluorocarbon Ban
- Kick wax (classic only): Applied to the grip zone; must be matched to snow temperature and humidity. Harder waxes for cold/dry, softer waxes (klisters) for warm/wet conditions.
- Glide wax: Applied to tips and tails (classic) or full base (skating). Ironed into the base structure for maximum speed.
- Fluorocarbon ban (Article 343.10, ICR): Since the 2023–2024 season, all fluorinated wax products (including powder overlays and blocks) are prohibited. Spot checks are conducted using portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometers. Detection of fluorine above the threshold results in DSQ and equipment confiscation.
- Teams employ dedicated wax technicians who prepare 8–15 pairs of skis per athlete for testing on race day