dave@hplslc.UUCP (Dave Dow) (04/08/85)
This year I decided to toss all my heavy downhill equipment and enjoy
the freedom of telemarking. After spending a few weekends of learning
how to ski all over again I discovered I was enjoying myself and the
motion and challange of skiing much more than I ever had when I used
my alpine skis. After learning to tackle moguls I've now ventured into
some of the expert runs at the local ski areas. Next year I hope to
start chute skiing on the skinny skis.
In the process of learning, however, I've come to discover that my
equipment is woefully inadequate for the steep and icy stuff. Currently
I'm using Fisher Europa 99 Crown's, Rotofella bindings, and Asolo Glissade
350 boots (which I am extremely disappointed in. The vibram sole does
not hold up well to extreme use). Any equipment recommendations? It
seems every ski company is coming out with it's own telemark ski.
Right now I'm sort of partial to Karhu XCD-GT comp's (or something like
that) with Asolo Snowfield boots. I've seen the Karhu Extreme's, but
they really seem more downhill than nordic, and I'd like to preserve
at least a bit of the nordic purity. I'd like to get your input!
Dave Dow
Hewlett Packard
Lake Stevens Instrument Division
Lake Stevens WA 98205
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paul@hpfclp.UUCP (paul) (04/13/85)
I currently use the Karhu Comps along with the Rotefella "White Shark"
bindings and Asolo Snowfields. I am very happy with this setup for
area skiing (I use the Comps for backcountry skiing in the spring/early
summer, using skins when climbing is necessary). Before I bought the
Comps I tried Phoenix's and some Rossignols.
The Rotefella bindings are head and shoulders above any other bindings
on the market. Do NOT buy any other binding but these, especially for
use with a telemark ski.
I have had my Snowfields for 4 years, and have not had any problems
whatsover. I have also heard good things about the Merrells. The only
thing about the Snowfields is they can be cold, especially when riding
the lifts. I have a pair of Thinsulite over-the-bootr gaitors, which
help quite a bit.
If you really want to sli steep and icy stuff, I suggest you look into
some of Paul Ramer's alpine/nordic gear. None of the stiffest
area telemarking skiis and bindings are appropriate for icy steep slopes.
Paul Beiser
Hewlett-Packard
Ft. Collins, Colorado
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