Not all heroes wear capes — some wear skis. The history of Norway’s ski troops (skiløpersoldater) is not just a story of military innovation, but a key chapter in the tale of how skiing helped shape a free nation.

Fighting on Skis Since the 1600s

The first known ski troops were deployed as early as 1675 during the Gyldenløve War. Norwegian soldiers used skis to move swiftly through deep snow — outmaneuvering Swedish cavalry. One account from 1677 tells of ski messengers covering over 80 km in a single day.

By the early 1700s, formal ski companies were created. They patrolled snowy border regions and trained in marksmanship, mobility, and survival — all on skis.

The Birth of Military Ski Training

In 1733, the first written ski regulations for soldiers were issued. Soldiers were required to carry rifles, wear snow gear, and ski both short and long distances. One drill book from 1765 includes illustrations of ski maneuvers — complete with synchronized turns, downhill speed control, and firing from a kneeling position while on skis.

"A soldier must be able to ski 1/4 mile with full equipment... and fire while in motion."

These techniques became the foundation for what we now call biathlon.

Telemark to the Rescue

During the Napoleonic Wars, Norwegian ski troops again proved their worth. But it was in the 1808 war with Sweden that Telemark soldiers showed their legendary skills. Using long skis and Telemark turns, they helped repel enemy forces at Trangen Pass.

The battle confirmed that skis weren’t just for speed — they were tools of national defense.

World Wars and the Winter Warriors

During WWII, ski troops played a vital role in resisting the Nazi occupation. Norwegian soldiers trained in Britain as part of the elite "Gunnerside" sabotage team, using skis to cross Hardangervidda and destroy Germany’s heavy water plant in Vemork.

Churchill called it “one of the most successful sabotage missions of the war.”

Ski warfare became essential for mountain battles and guerrilla tactics across the north.

Skiing: Not Just Sport, but Sovereignty

Ski troops influenced not only military strategy but ski design. Skis had to be longer, stronger, and more maneuverable. Bindings had to hold fast under combat. Winter uniforms had to be functional and fast.

Norway owes much of its skiing tradition — and independence — to these silent warriors on snow.

When You Ski in Tromsø...

...you glide in the tracks of heroes. From snowy hills to sabotage missions, skis have carried more than tourists. They’ve carried messages of resistance, freedom, and resilience.

At SkiTromsø, we salute the past — while inviting you to ski forward into your own adventure.