Telemark

Telemark skiing, also known as freeheel skiing, differentiates itself from alpine skiing in that the heel of the binding is not fixed (hence the term 'free heel'). The unfixed heel allows the skier to easily kick and glide (as a cross country skier would) on flat and uphill terrain. It also requires the skier to drop a knee when turning, resulting in the telemark turn.

Modern equipment (plastic boots, cable bindings and shorter, fatter skis) makes it easier to learn and enjoy telemark skiing than the leather boots and long skis many associate tele with. Some argue that it's easier on the knees than skiing, others just like the grace of the tele turn itself. Regardless of why folks do it, most will agree it's because they find it a fun way to get down the mountain.

Links

Telemark Tips and Instruction: An online telemark skiing magazine featuring articles, lesson pages, gear reviews, free mpeg movies, and the most active telemark discussion forum on the web.
United States Telemark Ski Association: U.S. Telemark Ski Assocation official website. Topics include information about the association, racing, events and schedules, results, bylaws, free skiing, and points. Provides a message board, photo gallery, links, and contact information.
Telemark Skier Magazine: Magazine by and for telemark skiers, created by the folks at Couloir Magazine.
Telemark Skiing Injury Study: General injury information, demographics, knee injuries, equipment and injury, and backcountry hut survey summary. Also provides a photo gallery and related links.
Telemarkski.com: A telemark site from Crested Butte, CO featuring reviews, advice, tips, events, information and gear.
Ultimate Grooves: Telemark ski clinics specifically for women, taught by some of the most accomplished women in telemark (including Heather Paul, founder).
Freeheel Life: Site devoted to freeheel skiing (also known as telemark), including discussion board, feature articles and events.
Telefair: TeleFair is a combination of top level instructors and world class skiing venues. Find out where the nearest clinic to you will be this winter!