Abstract: The invention relates to a running surface for a cross-country ski or similar generic ski, which running surface has a climbing aid profile within a part-portion of its length to prevent backward sliding, which comprises a plurality of consecutive step profiles in the longitudinal direction of the running surface, which are of a saw tooth design as viewed in longitudinal section through the running surface. A flank height of the saw tooth step profiles extending transversely to the longitudinal direction of the running surface increases or decreases continuously or discontinuously by reference to the longitudinal direction of the running surface. Also specified is a cross-country ski or similar generic ski equipped with this running surface. The features proposed by the invention result in an improved ratio between the gliding and kick-off behaviour of the running surface.