The art of telemarking

The art of telemark skiing: a historical and technical journey

Telemark is a fascinating and unique skiing technique that combines elements of alpine and Nordic skiing. Characteristic of this technique is the special binding that leaves the heel free and allows the skier to perform elegant and smooth movements in a kneeling position. The history of telemark goes back to the 19th century and is closely linked to the Telemark region in Norway.

The origins of telemark skiing

Sondre Norheim, a Norwegian farmer from the Telemark region, invented the Telemark in the 1860s. Norheim is considered the father of modern skiing, as he invented the Telemark binding, which allowed for better control and stability when skiing. This new technique was particularly advantageous in the steep and winding mountains of Norway.

The Telemark technique

The telemark technique is very different from alpine skiing. In telemark skiing, the heel remains free, allowing the skier to ski in a kneeling position. This movement requires special telemark skis, boots and bindings. The skier distributes his weight evenly over both skis, bends his knees alternately and makes flowing turns. This technique requires good balance, strength and agility, which is why it is often considered more demanding than classic alpine skiing.

Telemark in the 20th century

At the beginning of the 20th century, telemarking also became popular in the USA, especially in the Rocky Mountains. American ski instructors who had been trained in Norway brought the telemark style to the USA, where it quickly became a popular technique for recreational skiers. In the 1960s and 1970s, telemark skiing experienced a revival as more and more skiers came to appreciate the freedom and versatility of the technique. This was largely due to the development of new and improved telemark bindings that made it easier for skiers to control their skis.

The renaissance of telemark skiing

In the 1980s, telemarking experienced a renaissance, particularly in the USA. Ski resorts and ski magazines began to popularize the technique, and events such as the Telemark World Championships helped to spread the discipline further. This revival also led to a revival of the Telemark technique in Norway, the country of origin of the Telemark. Ski factories such as Åsnes began to produce Telemark skis again, and the demand for this special equipment increased sharply.

Telemark today

Telemarking is more than a nostalgic return to the origins of skiing. It is a recognized and valued sport that has fans all over the world. Telemark races have become part of the FIS competitions and there are numerous telemark clubs and communities that cultivate and develop this technique. Telemarking combines tradition with innovation and attracts both nature lovers and sporting adventurers.

Equipment and safety

The right equipment is crucial when telemarking. Telemark skis are generally a little wider and softer than alpine skis to support the turning movement. Telemark boots are more flexible and have a special binding that only fixes the tips of the boots. New developments such as the “New Telemark Norm” (NTN) binding offer more safety and control. Safety is also important when telemarking, as with all winter sports. A helmet, suitable protective clothing and the right technique can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

Conclusion

Telemarking is more than just a skiing technique – it is an art that requires skill, balance and elegance. The history of telemark skiing and its evolution from a traditional Norwegian technique to a globally popular sport is fascinating and inspiring. Whether you are an experienced skier or just starting out, telemark skiing offers you a unique and challenging way to enjoy the mountains while taking your skills to a new level.

We hope that this blog post, which provides a deep insight into the history and technique of telemark skiing, the special requirements for equipment and the importance of safety and learning methods, will awaken your interest in this special skiing technique. So strap on your telemark skis and experience the freedom and elegance of this historic and yet modern winter sport.