Is Uphill Skiing Your Next Adventure? Discover Skimo!

Ski mountaineering, or 'skimo', is set to make its exciting debut at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. This thrilling sport combines elements of skiing and running, featuring a sprint event that consists of three uphill sections and one downhill run, providing a unique challenge for athletes and a fresh spectacle for audiences.

Last updated: 07 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Ski mountaineering is gaining momentum as it prepares for its Olympic debut in 2026. This sport, which requires a combination of endurance, speed, and technical skill, is expected to attract significant attention, showcasing the athleticism of competitors in a dynamic format. As teams and individual athletes train for this new challenge, the anticipation grows for how well they will perform on the world stage.

Key takeaways

Ski mountaineering, or 'skimo', will debut at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The event includes a sprint format with multiple transitions between uphill and downhill segments.
A mixed team relay will also feature one male and one female athlete per team.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of ski mountaineering to the Olympics has been marked by significant milestones:

2020: International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF) petitions for Olympic recognition.
2022: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially includes skimo in the 2026 Games.
2026: Ski mountaineering makes its debut at the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, training camps and selection events are in full swing, with athletes refining their techniques and strategies for the demanding course. New training regimes are being adopted, focusing on the unique elements of skimo.

What was already established

It is already well-known that ski mountaineering combines aspects of skiing and mountaineering, with a focus on endurance and speed. The sport has been gaining popularity in various countries, especially in Europe, and has an established competitive structure through events organised by the ISMF.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The introduction of ski mountaineering to the Winter Olympics presents an opportunity for the UK to engage more with winter sports. Increased interest could lead to more investment in winter sports facilities and training programmes, benefiting local athletes and communities.

Businesses and jobs

As interest in skimo and winter sports rises, businesses in related sectors—such as outdoor equipment suppliers and ski resorts—may see increased demand. This could create job opportunities in retail, coaching, and event organisation as more people become involved in winter sports.

Policy and regulation

The UK government and sporting bodies may consider enhanced support for winter sports as a result of the Olympic spotlight on skimo. This may include funding for training facilities and programmes aimed at developing talent in winter sports.

Numbers that matter

3 to 4 minutes: Average time to complete the skimo sprint course.
10 to 20 metres: Distance athletes will skin to reach the final transition area.
4: Total number of laps in the mixed team relay event.

Definitions and jargon buster

Ski mountaineering (skimo): A sport combining skiing and mountaineering, involving ascents and descents on a variety of terrains.
Skinning: The practice of attaching fabric skins to skis for grip while ascending slopes.
Transition area: Designated spots where athletes switch between skiing and running elements.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, athletes are expected to participate in training camps and selection trials as they prepare for the Olympics. These events will be crucial in determining the competitors who will represent their countries.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the Winter Olympics approach, national teams will finalise their rosters and continue to refine their techniques. Increased media coverage is anticipated, which will help raise awareness of the sport.

Signals to watch

Results from upcoming national and international skimo competitions.
Media coverage and public interest in skimo as the Olympics draw near.
Investment in training facilities and programmes for winter sports in the UK.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay updated on developments in ski mountaineering and upcoming Olympic events.
Consider participating in local winter sports clubs to experience skiing and mountaineering.

Don’t

Don’t overlook the importance of safety while participating in winter sports.
Don’t assume skimo is similar to traditional skiing; it has unique challenges and requirements.

Checklist

Ensure you have the correct gear for skiing and mountaineering.
Familiarise yourself with basic skimo techniques and safety protocols.
Join local clubs or communities focused on winter sports.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As ski mountaineering is still a relatively new sport at the Olympic level, uncertainties remain regarding its long-term popularity and sustainability. Additionally, the physical demands of the sport can lead to injuries if proper training and safety measures are not followed. Athletes and fans alike should remain cautious about the physical risks involved in both training and competition.

Bottom line

The introduction of ski mountaineering at the 2026 Winter Olympics signifies a new era for winter sports, combining the thrill of skiing with the rigours of mountaineering. As this sport gains traction, it presents opportunities for both athletes and the broader winter sports community in the UK. Preparing for the games will require dedication, and the potential for growth in participation and interest is immense.

FAQs

What is ski mountaineering?

Ski mountaineering, or 'skimo', is a sport that combines skiing and mountaineering, featuring events that include both uphill and downhill elements.

How long does a skimo sprint race take?

A typical skimo sprint race takes between three to four minutes to complete, depending on the athlete's speed and technique.

What is the mixed team relay format in skimo?

The mixed team relay consists of one man and one woman per team, completing four laps with two ascents and two descents each.