Norwegian ski heritage and the “rat trap” binding

Nearly 100 years after their invention, Rottefella bindings still dominate the world of skiing Rasmus Falck Oslo, Norway Norway is known as the cradle of skiing. The first 50 km cross-country ski race was held in Oslo in February 1888. Before its start some of the 17 starters were smoking a pipe to enlarge the lungs. The winner won a price worth 400 NOK. The Norwegian mechanical engineer, inventor, and industrialist Bror With created the first split toe binding in 1927. He used his bindings in a ski race, where then Crown Prince Olav was present. He took one look at the different-looking bindings and asked Bror what on Earth he had on his skis. The inventor quickly replied: Oh, they’re j