Cross-country skiers wear skis bound to each ski boot by bindings that allow for free foot and ankle movement. In each hand, skiers hold ski poles that help propel them forward.

There are two skiing techniques in cross country. Classical and freestyle (skating) each use a different set of equipment.

The skis used in the classical technique are longer (185-210 cm long) than freestyle skis. They have two types of wax applied to the bottoms. Kick wax is applied to the "kick zone" (45-60 cm from the heel to above the toe, depending on snow conditions) to add grip for levels and inclines. Glide wax is applied above and below the "kick zone" in the "glide zone" to add gliding speed on levels and declines.

Freestyle skis are shorter (170-200 cm long). Only glide wax is applied to freestyle skis, along the entire length of each ski.

The difference in pole length is the reverse of ski length. Freestyle poles come to chin-level from the ground, while classical poles are about 10 cm shorter.

Restrictions

Skis

* Length (minimum): height of skier, minus 100mm

* Width at binding (minimum): 40mm

* Tip, shovel curvature (minimum): 30mm

* Tail width (minimum): 30mm

* Both skis must be constructed the same way, and be of the same length

* No flexibility restrictions

* Mass (minimum): 750g per pair

Poles

* Two poles of equal length must be used

* Length: (minimum) skier's hip (maximum) skier's full height

* No weight restrictions

* Grip, strap, shaft, basket, tip

Bindings & boots

* No restrictions

Equipment changes during the race
Poles may be changed during any competition. One or both skis may be changed if the ski(s) or the binding(s) is broken or damaged. Equipment failure must be proven to the race jury after the competition. Waxing, scraping or cleaning of the skis during competition is forbidden, except in classical technique competitions.