Ski technology. Skiing has been around since prehistoric
times, but the breakthrough of modern and recreational skiing
took place around 1850, supported greatly by the invention
of the Norheim binding. Norheim’s binding included a
leather toe strap that was fastened tightly with a buckle, and
a heel strap made from thin shoots of birch roots. The strap
had to be flexible and elastic in order to allow it to keep tension
on the heel as the skier strode forward and the heel lifted
from the ski. Norheim and other Norwegians also worked
with the shape of the ski, and they introduced the curved slalom
ski. Additionally, they were pioneers in organizing institutional
frameworks, competitions etc., which meant a rapid
dissemination of recreational skiing