Telemark skiing - free-heel skiing rooted in Norway and refined by Sondre Norheim - uses a lunging turn that combines alpine and Nordic elements. Gear includes telemark-specific skis, leather or plastic boots, three-pin or modern step-in bindings (NTN-style), and climbing skins for uphill travel. K2 produced several telemark models in the 2000s tailored to powder and piste, but many of those models are no longer widely available. Shoppers should confirm current inventory and binding/boot compatibility before purchasing.

What is telemark skiing?

Telemark skiing - often called "free-heel" skiing - is a turn technique named for the Telemark region of Norway. Sondre Norheim, a Norwegian skier from the 19th century, is widely credited with developing the early telemark and Christiania turning styles that influenced modern skiing.

The telemark turn uses a long, lunging motion: the outside ski lands flat while the inside ski moves forward as the knee bends and the heel lifts. The result is a flowing, rhythmic turn that blends elements of alpine and Nordic technique.

Gear basics for telemark

Telemark skiing uses specialized gear tuned for the free-heel technique. The core items are skis, boots, bindings, and (for uphill travel) climbing skins.

Skis

Telemark skis look similar to alpine skis but are often wider and come in shapes optimized for flotation in soft snow and stability on variable terrain. In the 2000s and early 2010s several manufacturers - including K2 - offered telemark-specific models tailored to piste, powder, and backcountry use.

Boots

Telemark boots come in leather and plastic/modern materials. Modern plastic boots give better support and compatibility with contemporary bindings; leather persists mainly among traditionalists and for a softer, more flexible feel.

Bindings

Classic telemark bindings use the 75mm "three-pin" toe pattern that leaves the heel free. In recent years, newer step-in systems (often referred to as NTN or similar formats) have appeared to improve downhill performance and ease of use while preserving the telemark motion.

Skins

Climbing skins (mohair or synthetic) attach under touring skis to provide uphill traction. They are standard for telemark touring and backcountry use.

K2 and telemark skis

K2 was one of the mainstream ski makers to supply telemark-specific models during the telemark market's stronger period in the 1990s-2000s. Models commonly associated with K2 in that era included names such as Schi Devil, Dawn Patrol, Hippy Stinx, Super Stinx, Piste Pipe, She's Piste, Anti Piste, and World Piste. These designs emphasized wider waists, softer flexes, and playful shapes for deep snow and variable terrain.

If you're shopping today, be aware that telemark product lines have narrowed and many models from the 2000s are no longer produced. Check current retailer catalogs or the manufacturer site for up-to-date availability before you buy.

Buying tips

  • Decide whether you want classic 75mm bindings or a modern step-in system; compatibility dictates your boot choice.
  • For backcountry telemark, prioritize skis with good flotation and a layout that accepts climbing skins.
  • Try demo equipment where possible - telemark gear and sizing feel different from alpine setups.
Telemark remains a niche but rewarding discipline. The right gear helps, but technique and time on snow make the difference.
  1. Confirm K2's current (2025) telemark product lineup and availability on official K2 website and major retailers.
  2. Verify the timeline and principal manufacturers associated with the modern NTN telemark standard (origin and mainstream adoption period).

FAQs about K2 Telemark Skis

What is the difference between telemark and alpine skiing?
Telemark uses a free-heel technique where the heel lifts during the turn, producing a lunging motion. Alpine skiing keeps the heel locked down in the binding, favoring a different stance and turn mechanics.
Do I need special telemark boots and bindings?
Yes. Telemark boots and bindings are specific to free-heel skiing. Classic 75mm (three-pin) bindings require compatible boots; newer step-in systems require boots made for those standards.
Are K2 telemark skis still available?
K2 manufactured several telemark models in the 2000s (for example: Schi Devil, Dawn Patrol, Hippy Stinx). However, telemark lines have contracted since then. Check current retailer catalogs or K2's website for up-to-date availability.
Are climbing skins necessary for telemark skiing?
If you plan to tour or climb uphill, skins are essential for traction. For resort-only telemark skiing on lifts, skins are not needed.
Should I demo telemark gear before buying?
Yes. Telemark boots and bindings feel and perform differently from alpine setups. A demo helps you find the right flex, length, and binding system.

News about K2 Telemark Skis

Here's How To Buy Used Telemark Gear - POWDER Magazine [Visit Site | Read More]

A First-Timer’s Guide to Telemark Boots, Bindings, and Skis - POWDER Magazine [Visit Site | Read More]

I Made Fun Of Tele Skiing—and Then I Actually Tried It - skimag.com [Visit Site | Read More]

Could a Mainstream Manufacturer Come Back to Telemark? - POWDER Magazine [Visit Site | Read More]

Nordic vs cross-country skiing: The differences - Red Bull [Visit Site | Read More]

The Best Backcountry Skis of 2025 - GearLab [Visit Site | Read More]

Telemark skiing is giving way to alpine touring trend among backcountry skiers, even in Oregon - OregonLive.com [Visit Site | Read More]