Skiing

[1] Although modern skiing has evolved from beginnings in Scandinavia, it may have been practiced more than 100 centuries ago in the Altai Mountains, according to an interpretation of ancient paintings.

[6] Asymmetrical skis were used in northern Finland and Sweden until at least the late 19th century.

It is characterized by fixed-heel bindings that attach at both the toe and the heel of the skier's boot.

Alpine Touring setups use specialized bindings which are switchable between locked and free-heel modes.

Climbing skins are temporarily attached to the bottom of alpine skis to give them traction on snow.

This permits Nordic style uphill and back-country travel on alpine skis.

Cross-country skiing may be practiced on groomed trails or in undeveloped backcountry areas.

New parabolic designs like the Elan SCX have enabled the more modern carve turn.