Telemark Boots

Free your heel on telemark skis

To many, telemarking means freedom. On the one side freedom of nature, on the other side freedom of the heel, because when telemarking, the heal is not fixed in the telemark binding and onto the telemark ski. As of this, you need specific bindings and specific boots.

So what is the difference to regular ski boots? It can easily be seen. These boots have a pleat in the tip of the boot, which enables telemark skiing where you bend your knee and foot.

©Telemark boots: NTN (left) and 75mm (right) by Sarah Büll

75mm vs. NTN - Telemark boot and binding go hand in hand

When telemarking, there are two different binding systems. There is the classic 75mm one, and then there is the NTN binding “New Telemark Norm”. Both systems have the same function but work differently.

The 75mm binding fixes the ski boot in its toe piece and holds it using springs, creating a cable strain. These boots therefore have a 75mm wide extension in the front.

The NTN binding is the newer model and has a couple of advantages such as increased stability and torsional stiffness. These boots do not need an extension in the front but have a so-called binding plate in the front part of the sole. Depending on the manufacturer, some NTN boots also have tech inserts in the front or both in the back and front.

Some people first pick a binding and then look for the best boot, other telemarkers pick their boot first and take the binding that fits it. How you do it is up to you!

©Telemarking by Hubert Hornsteiner

What else is there to pay attention to when it comes to telemark boots?

As with regular alpine boots, telemark boots vary. Different flexes - the higher the flex, the more downhill oriented - different cuts and different isolations. Also, women’s and men’s boots are different in the way they are built: As women’s calves usually start lower, the stem of the boot is lower. Also, the inner boot is usually a bit narrower.

Telemark boots also differ in their stem rotation, which is especially important when touring up. If it is too low, you will not have enough movement flexibility. Speeking of touring up: Most telemark boots these days have an integrated walking mode, which lets you tour with them!

What is most important is the fit. If the boot does not fit you well, telemarking will very quickly become very uncomfortable. If it is too large, you will get blisters, if it is too small it will hurt as well! Another important aspect is the intended area of use. If you are a beginner or you intend to tour a lot, you will prefer a boot that has three buckles, because these are softer and weigh less. If you are more descent oriented, you will pick one with four buckles. By the way, telemark boots can be adapted to your individual feet using heat. Our experts at the store will gladly assist you with the boot fitting!

Read more regarding telemarking

• Passion and technique of Telemark Skiing
• Telemark and Alpine Skiboots: Sole length and mondo point
• How to find the right ski length