Current Issue
#44.1 | 2025 Gear Guide
The 2025 Gear Guide is our biggest one ever, with reviews of 60 skis, boots, poles and bindings. We also highlight three destinations in Canada that offer incomparable ski experiences: British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, the historic Skoki Lodge near Banff and several Nordic trail systems in Quebec. Critically acclaimed cartoonist Alison Bechdel shares how cross country skiing inspires her work, Cross Country Skier founder Ron Bergin celebrates World Cup racing in the U.S., and veteran ski journalist Peggy Shinn looks at the legacy of American biathlete Joanne Reid. Also included: skiing in eastern Idaho’s Teton Valley; the Canadian Ski Marathon’s long history; the future of Michigan’s ABR Nordic Center; how to improve your technique through double poling; searching for the best snow and slowing down to enjoy the view; accessories to keep you warm; and why one of writer Leath Tonino’s favorite ski companions is a snowshoe hare.
Inside the Issue ›
Features
Page 48
2025 Gear Guide
We returned to Colorado’s Snow Mountain Ranch last March to put 60 pieces of gear to the test: skis, boots, poles and an innovative new binding. Our crew of 33 skiers gave it all a thorough vetting, and we share the results in our biggest-ever guide to everything you’ll want for a new season on snow.
Image by Jon Geeslin
Page 72
Northern Exposure
Canada’s got so much good skiing that we couldn’t settle on just one destination to feature in this issue. So we went for three. Tag along with a trio of writers as they discover the huge variety of Nordic trails in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, the serenity at one of Canada’s oldest backcountry ski lodges and family-friendly skiing in southern Quebec.
Words by Paul Tolmé, Cindy Hirschfeld & Erika Corbett Klein | Image by Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson
Mass Start
Page 13
Editor’s Note
A Rookie Racer Reflects
Page 14
Wax Box
Page 16
Gallery
Page 24
Essays
Tom Weaver learns to like speed, Rebecca Weiss skis among giants and Hansi Johnson finds satisfaction in slowing down.
The Skinny
Page 28
Shooting for Change
U.S. biathlete Joanne Reid left the national team because of the sexual harassment she experienced. Now, a biathlon festival in her honor aims to inspire other women in a safer, more welcoming environment.
Page 32
The Legacy of Michigan’s ABR Nordic Center
A generous land donation by its founders ensures this first-rate trail system’s future for skiers.
Page 35
A World Cup Win
After an incredible weekend of racing in Minneapolis last February, will we see more World Cup events in the U.S.?
Page 38
Overland: Skiing with the Master
Writer Leath Tonino’s favorite ski companion is the elusive snowshoe hare.
Destination
Page 40
Making Tracks in Teton Valley
A robust series of trail networks in eastern Idaho attracts longtime Nords as well as downhill skiers looking for alternatives.
Words by Tom Hallberg | Image by Jonathan Selkowitz
The Final Stretch
Page 84
Inside Line
Double poling is a whole-body technique that can improve nearly every aspect of your skiing.
Page 86
Gear Bag
Warm mittens, merino base layers and winter-worthy footwear.
Page 94
Perspective
Cartoonist Alison Bechdel, who has earned critical acclaim for her creative work, finds inspiration in cross country skiing.
Page 96
Classics
For almost six decades, the Canadian Ski Marathon has drawn participants with its quirky format and welcoming vibe.
Page 98
Photo Finish
A young racer steps up to the podium.
The Journal of Nordic Skiing