January 2008 marks the 30th year since the birth of the XCD concept. The brainchild of Antii Tiitola, its development and design in 1978 married downhill and Nordic qualities – metal edges, Nordic builds, new sidecuts and cambers capable of touring and turning – in a single ski that became a legend. Built by Karhu North America, the ski was christened the XCD, the perfect encapsulation of the ski’s purpose, Cross-Country Downhill. To a larger extent, it captured the essence of the whole telemark revival, as the nascent sport’s pioneers embraced the innovative new design and discovered new peaks, descents, traverses and adventures only imagined before.

Because of the XCD, we understand that the turn alone lacks the satisfaction of the earn, and the tour is enhanced by the thrill of the descent. The heart of the adventure is the blend of the two, and that marriage of styles – that Karhu DNA – will continue to define us for the years to come.

The virtue of the XCD was its accessibility, opening the door to a deeper winter, whether it was out your back door or on the flanks of Everest. That spirit lies at the heart of our line today, from our Widetrak touring skis and boots to the new Mountain Series – dynamic, engaging skis that will continue to challenge and reward you as your own experience and imagination expands.

The Employees of Karhu