What is a cross-country sit-ski?
Officials' detail · Categories and classes · 1 of 1A sit-ski is a fixed seat rigidly joined to two cross-country skis, with no springs, the seat at most 40 cm above the skis. The sitting bones stay on the seat, with thighs and hips strapped in non-stretch material. Legs may not steer or brake. All adaptive equipment is registered by the national association.
How it works
- Seat: fixed, not adjustable in the race.
- Height: 40 cm at most.
- Frame: rigid, no springs.
- Seated: sitting bones on the seat.
- Straps: thighs and hips, non-flexible.
- Legs: no steering or braking.
- Fallen sit-skier: may be helped back.
- Registration: by the national association.
The glossary has the sit-ski, the sit-ski strapping, the sit-ski steering, the prostheses (cross-country), the adaptive equipment registration and the sitting classes.
Tricky cases
Can a sit-skier adjust the seat mid-race?
No.
A sit-skier falls. Can a coach help?
Yes, back to the same place.
Can a leg drag to brake?
No.
Are seat cushions registered?
Yes.
Why the rule exists
A fixed, low seat stops riders using trunk movement their class lacks. Registration keeps kit consistent.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Seat | 40 cm | AE C 1.1 |
| Straps | Non-flexible | AE C 1.1.5 |
| Legs | No steering | R 12343.7.2 |
From the rule book
FIS, Para Snow Sports Adaptive Equipment Regulations (9 July 2026), Section C, with FIS, International Competition Rules, Para Cross-Country (9 July 2026), article 12343.7.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: FIS ICR Para Cross-Country and Para Nordic Classification Rules.