Cross Country Skier 2023 Gear Guide

On the cover: Eoin O’Mahoney, of the Quarry Road Ski Club, wraps up the freestyle portion of the Maine Eastern High School Champs Qualifier in Waterville. [Photo] Steve Fuller FEATURES 2023 Gear Guide We rounded up a crew of 30 enthusiastic and knowledgeable skiers to put this winter’s freshly minted skis, boots and poles through their paces. With testing taking place at three locations in Colorado, we were able to evaluate the gear in a variety of conditions, from fresh snow to spring slush. The result? Reviews of 19 skis, 21 boots and two poles, plus previews of a dozen more new items. Road to Resilience There’s no denying climate change is affecting our winters, from more frequent thaws and warmer temps to less snow and shorter seasons. But the picture is not entirely grim. Nordic centers are adapting through measures like more efficient snowmaking, different grooming tactics and innovative snow storage. Here’s what four of them across the U.S. are doing to keep you skiing longer an