The hottest new winter sport is about to get even hotter
Vox
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The rise of backcountry skiing and the Olympic debut of ski mountaineering, or “skimo,” mark a significant shift in winter sports culture. Over recent years, more people have turned to backcountry skiing, escaping crowded resorts for untouched snow and quieter trails. This trend has gained momentum due to factors like affordable gear, safety education, and a growing desire for solitude, with many turning to the sport during pandemic lockdowns.
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina will feature skimo as a new medal event, showcasing athletes’ endurance and technical skill as they race up steep slopes with lightweight skis and skins before descending rapidly. This addition highlights backcountry skiing’s evolution from a niche pursuit to a mainstream activity, drawing global attention.
However, the sport’s growth coincides with a growing threat: climate change is making reliable snowpack increasingly uncertain, affecting both natural landscapes and winter sports infrastructure. Studies show that many current Olympic sites may become unsustainable by mid-century, raising concerns about the future of winter recreation and the policies needed to address these challenges.
For those who love skiing, skimo’s debut at the Olympics offers a moment of celebration but also serves as a reminder of the fragility of winter conditions. As resorts invest in artificial snowmaking and other adaptations, the backcountry remains deeply tied to nature’s rhythms. Yet, its purity and vulnerability make it a symbol of both human passion and the delicate balance of our climate.
Ultimately, the surge in backcountry skiing and skimo’s Olympic arrival reflect broader societal shifts toward outdoor exploration and environmental awareness. As readers interested in politics and policy consider the future of winter sports, they must grapple with the tension between preserving natural spaces and adapting to a changing climate—a challenge that will shape the sport’s—and our—ability to enjoy winters for generations to come.
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Originally published on Vox on 2/19/2026