In a recent skiing event, Ilkka Herola emphasized the crucial role of gear in the 10-kilometer cross-country skiing segment, especially in challenging slushy conditions. Together with his friend Eero Hirvonen, both of whom belong to the same ski team, they engaged in ski tests to determine the best equipment for their performance. The camaraderie allowed for swapping skis between athletes, especially when they share similar weight categories, leading to optimal results in a competitive setting.

Hirvonen ultimately decided to use Herola's skis based on their testing collaboration, despite the fact that both athletes had skis that were relatively equal in performance. This level of trust and teamwork can be vital in competitive sports, where equipment can significantly influence outcomes. Herola confirmed that the choice was sound considering their performance, suggesting that the right gear, evaluated under swift conditions, can indeed lead to better race results.

The discussion raises questions about past attempts to create a ski-sharing library within the Finnish national ski team, which had mixed results and a backlash when such initiatives were introduced in earlier seasons. Although this idea had difficulties gaining acceptance, the success of informal gear sharing among friends and teammates like Herola and Hirvonen provides a contrasting perspective on collaboration in sports. Their experience indicates a positive shift back to encouraging cooperation and shared resources among athletes, at least among those who trust each other and work closely together in their training.