On 10–11 December 2025, six members of the IBU Development Department carried out the annual Material Distribution, delivering essential equipment to IBU National Federations. The distribution included more than 1,000 pairs of gloves, over 200 pairs of skis and more than 0.5 million rounds of biathlon ammunition, supporting athlete development around the world.

Thanks to the support of 28 partners and suppliers, a total of 37 National Federations benefited from the programme. The overall value of the distributed material reached EUR 965,000. Of this total, 53.9% was allocated to B Nations, 38.2% to C Nations and 7.9% to D Nations, ensuring targeted support according to development level.

Allocation Criteria

The allocation of material follows a structured and transparent process. Several factors are taken into account, including:

• the actual material needs of National Federations collected through an application process;

• the total number of athletes participating in IBU events, including IBU Regional Events; and

• the federation’s development category within the IBU system.

Delivered Equipment

The following items were delivered for the Material Distribution 2025/2026:

• 252 wax boxes

• 265 pairs of skis

• 240 pairs of poles

• 161 pairs of boots

• 444 pairs of ski bindings

• 140 roller ski bindings

• 14 rifle stocks

• 225,000 rounds of Polar Biathlon ammunition

• 280,000 rounds of Standard Plus ammunition

• 1,656 pairs of gloves

• 195 pieces of cross-country clothing

• 250 arm slings

• 47 rifle bags

• 22 laser rifles from Kiwi Precision

• 85 harnesses

• 16 helmets

• 45 Anschütz vouchers (€50)

• 204 roller skis

Fun Facts from the Material Distribution

Beyond the numbers, the Material Distribution also reveals interesting insights into athlete preferences across National Federations. The most frequently requested sizes highlight clear trends in equipment demand.

• 186 cm was the most requested ski length.

• 165 cm was the most requested pole length.

• Size 42 was the most requested boot size.

Material Distribution is an annual project delivered in close cooperation with IBU partners and suppliers. The programme aims to support National Federations by addressing their material needs and strengthening sustainable development in biathlon worldwide. More information about the project is available here.

We thank all the suppliers and National Federations that participated in the Material Distribution 2025/2026.

Photos: IBU Photopool