Pistepeli

Pistepeli, commonly known as "ski orienteering" in English, is a winter sport that combines elements of skiing and orienteering. The objective is to navigate a predetermined route marked on a map while skiing across snowy terrain. Participants use a map and compass to find control points, which are marked locations along the course, and return to the start within a set time limit.

The sport originated in the 1950s in Finland, where it was developed as a way to make orienteering accessible during winter conditions. Unlike traditional orienteering, which is typically done on foot, pistepeli requires skiers to navigate while maintaining mobility and balance on skis. This adds an extra layer of challenge, as participants must adapt their movement to the snowy environment while still focusing on accurate navigation.

Pistepeli competitions are usually held on groomed ski trails or natural snow-covered terrain, often in forested areas. The courses are designed to test both navigational skills and skiing ability, with varying difficulty levels based on the complexity of the terrain and the density of control points. Races can be individual or team-based, with different formats such as sprint, middle-distance, or long-distance events.

The sport is governed by international orienteering federations, including the International Orienteering Federation (IOF), which oversees its rules, competitions, and development. Pistepeli is particularly popular in Nordic countries like Finland, Sweden, and Norway, where winter sports are widely embraced. It is also gaining recognition in other regions with snowy climates, including parts of Russia, Canada, and the United States.

Equipment for pistepeli includes cross-country skis, poles, a map, compass, and often a GPS device for training purposes. Participants typically wear winter clothing suitable for cold conditions, including insulated jackets, pants, gloves, and helmets for safety. The sport promotes physical fitness, mental acuity, and an appreciation for outdoor navigation, making it appealing to both competitive athletes and recreational enthusiasts.