How to Buy Telemark Skis

The telemark ski was the original ski and consisted of a long wood plank with a leather binding. Today there are hundreds of models to choose from.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ski Clothing
• Telemark Ski Equipment

1. Settle on a price range. New telemark skis range from $200 to $800 or more.

2. Look for a flexible, light ski. Telemarkers use flexible, light skis because they can carve a turn with less pressure from the legs.

3. Brace the ski on the tip and tail and push on the middle to test the flexibility.

4. Choose between a shaped ski that allows for easier turning or a traditional straight ski that is more stable at high speed.

5. Test several pairs of skis and compare them if possible before buying.

Tips & Warnings

• Telemark skis are generally lighter and flex more than alpine skis. In alpine skiing the heel is locked to the ski, making it easier to apply pressure and turn. Telemarkers, on the other hand, ski free-heeled, meaning less pressure can be applied to the ski to turn. Fortunately, a light, flexible ski turns with little pressure.
• Alpine skis with telemark bindings can be used for telemark skiing.

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