How to Use Heel Lifters With Telemark Skis
When you hike uphill with skins on your telemark skis, you'll probably feel the burn in your thighs and calves. Heel lifters can reduce your fatigue and enable you to climb steeper slopes.
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Instructions
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1
Inspect your telemark bindings to see if they are lifter-compatible - most modern bindings are. Look for holes or grooves on the heel plates of your bindings, or ask a ski store for assistance.
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2
Buy a pair of heel lifters to fit your heel plates.
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3
Install the heel lifters according to the instructions.
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4
Attach skins to your skis and prepare to climb up a slope.
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5
Adjust the heel lifters to their upright, locked position by pulling up on the lifters.
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Climb up the hill, noticing that your heels drop onto the heel-lifter and not all the way down to the skis. This reduces the work your thighs and calves must perform.
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Tips & Warnings
Using heel lifters with skins allows you to climb steeper slopes than you could if you used skins by themselves. If you slide back while climbing up, click the heel lifters up.
Telemark skiing is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.
