Telemark skiing

Telemark skiing, often referred to as the original form of alpine skiing, offers a unique mountain gliding experience. It is distinguished by a characteristic turning technique in which the heel of the front foot is raised while the skier deeply bends the knees. This sport combines the freedom of cross-country skiing with the dynamics of alpine skiing, and therefore requires specific equipment. This guide aims to help mountain enthusiasts and advanced skiers choose the best telemark ski equipment, focusing on skis, bindings and boots. Find our best telemark ski equipment and other telemark gear.

Choosing your telemark skis

Among our telemark brands such as Blizzard, the choice of telemark skis is essential to get the most out of this sport. Unlike alpine skis, telemark skis must offer an optimal balance between lightness for ascent and stability for descent. Here are the main factors to consider:

Ski type

• Piste skis: Stiffer and narrower, they are designed for speed and precision on groomed runs.
• All-terrain skis: With a wider skate width, they offer better lift in soft snow and are versatile for different types of terrain.
• Touring skis: Ultra-light and often featuring advanced materials such as carbon, they are ideal for long ascents and discovering unexplored areas.

Ski size

Ski size depends mainly on your level of experience and your weight. In general, skis should be slightly shorter than those used in alpine skiing, to optimize agility when turning.

Cambre or rocker?

• Traditional camber: Ideal for hooking on hard terrain with good control when carving turns.
• Front rocker: Improves buoyancy in powder while facilitating turn initiation in soft snow.
• Full rocker: Combines the above advantages, offering the versatility sought by some skiers.

Selecting your telemark bindings

Having the right type of bindings is essential, as they ensure safety while optimizing performance during your runs. Telemark bindings are distinguished mainly by their design, which fixes only the front of the foot:

Overview of cable bindings

These are the traditional option, offering a solid connection between boot and ski with increased strength for tight maneuvering on fast descents.

Overview NTN (New Telemark Norm)

With their modern design, these models guarantee greater control and ease of donning and doffing, and are compatible with brake systems and safety devices such as avalanche triggers.

Selecting your telemark boots

The ideal equipment starts with the right boots, which must combine comfort, flexibility and support. See all our telemark boots. They are generally more flexible than alpine models:

Flex details

Flex varies according to performance orientation (downhill/hiking); stiffness is preferable if you prefer fast descents and tight turns.

Shell details

Plastic shells ensure durability, while lightweight materials such as Pebax or carbon are ideal for touring thanks to their reduced weight.

Closure system details

Buckles and straps provide the precise fit and support essential to mastering the technical subtleties of telemark style.

Liner details

A comfortable, well-insulated and thermoformable liner adapts perfectly to the shape of the user's foot.

The right equipment guarantees optimum performance and maximum pleasure during your mountaineering adventures! Don't hesitate to test several options and consult specialists to find the right equipment for your specific needs. With the right equipment, telemark skiing will transform your mountain experience, offering a freedom and connection to the terrain unmatched by any other board sport!