The Skijor Manifesto — Skijoring 101

A Guide for New (and Experienced) Skijor Competitors

By Jed Moore — also the rider in the photo above

After visiting with several race producers and industry professionals, we compiled what we believe is a solid foundation of information for both new and experienced skijor competitors.

These ideas help producers and competitors work together to create a well-run, safe, and exciting spectator event. By working together, we can continue growing this incredible sport for the world to see.

This is not meant to be a comprehensive “how-to” guide. Instead, it’s an introduction for those wanting to try the most addicting winter sport there is—and a reminder for those who have already fallen in love with it.

Entering Events

The days of showing up the night before a race and signing up are mostly gone. Today, online registration and payment systems are becoming the norm, and many races fill up within minutes of entries opening.

Successful competitors plan their race season early, connect with teammates in the offseason, follow race websites for entry announcements, and communicate with other racers about race selection.

Choose the Right Division

With the growing popularity of skijoring, race entries are limited and demand is high. If you have never skijored before, your first race should be in the Novice Division.

Every horse owner believes their horse is fast until they race truly fast horses. Every skier thinks they can skijor quickly until they race seasoned competitors.

Entering a division above your skill level increases risk for everyone involved.

Earning Your Place at Elite Races

Just because you want to compete at a particular race doesn’t mean you automatically get a spot.

Much like rodeo, many elite events prioritize experienced competitors. Lower divisions may be lottery based while higher divisions may become invite-only.

This protects safety, the quality of the spectator experience, and the integrity of the sport.

Volunteer If You Can’t Enter

If you don’t get into a race, consider volunteering. Events rely heavily on volunteers to help run gates, manage timing, coordinate parking, and assist at the start line.

Volunteering is one of the best ways to learn the sport and build relationships with producers and competitors.

Learn the Rules for Each Race

While most skijor races follow similar formats, rules vary from event to event.

Pay attention to rope length requirements, entry limits, protest procedures, saddle connections, and other race-specific regulations.

Seek Advice from Experienced Racers

The skijor community is full of people willing to help newcomers. Riders, skiers, and producers often share valuable insights if you simply ask.

Online communities and race groups are excellent places to learn.

Be Professional and Courteous

Volunteers are the backbone of skijor racing. Without them working gates, timing runs, managing parking, and helping at the start line, the sport wouldn’t exist.

Treat them with respect. Professionalism and attitude matter both on and off the course.

Equipment Basics

Rider Equipment

Standard skijor saddle setups connect behind the cantle or create a loop through the saddle’s D-rings.

Many beginner horses run barefoot, while more advanced competitors may use snow rims, studs, borium spots, or ice nails for traction.

Skier Equipment

Skijor ropes come in many styles, thicknesses, and materials. Skiers should experiment to find what feels best in their hands while wearing gloves.

Heavy-rated carabiners are typically used to connect the rope to the rider’s rigging.

Competitive skiers usually use slalom-style race skis. Wide powder skis make quick gate turns more difficult.

Skiers bring ropes. Riders bring horses.

Be Prepared on Race Day

Every competitor plays a role in keeping the event running smoothly.

Have your horse warmed up, know the run order, and be ready at the start gate before your run.

Saving even a few seconds per run can save significant production time across a full race day.

Horsemanship

Training horses to pull objects before race day is critical. Practice with sleds, logs, or other drag objects so the horse is comfortable pulling weight.

Horses should also be prepared for distractions like flags, loud music, crowds, announcers, drones, and obstacles along the course.

Build Relationships in the Sport

Many respected figures in skijoring have earned their reputation through dedication, integrity, and years of supporting races.

Building relationships with competitors and race producers helps strengthen the sport and your place in the community.

Travel Responsibly

Skijoring often requires winter travel. Prepare with a reliable vehicle, proper tires, chains, and a plan for weather conditions.

Entering a race is a weekend commitment for both skier and rider.

Horse Care

Horse owners should travel with proper winter supplies including water buckets, hoses, feed, blankets, generators, tank heaters, fencing panels, and veterinary supplies.

Skiers can help by filling water buckets, hauling hay, and assisting with horse care around the race site.

Final Thoughts

Entering skijoring can feel intimidating, especially when competing alongside seasoned racers.

But the strength of the sport lies in the community that supports it. Most competitors want to see others succeed and grow within the sport.

“Skijoring is the funnest thing you can do with your clothes on.” — RWIII