Antique Cross Country Skis
c. 1930's, 20th century
Wood, Metal
74"l x 2.75"w
© Vintage Winter

A wonderful set of antique wooden downhill skis made by the Karhu Company. They feature their original labels, which are in good condition and showcase the Karhu skiing bear model. They have been preserved with our natural oil and beeswax finish.  

Karhu means "bear" in Finnish, and the company started in Finland in 1916.  They mostly sold discuses and javelins. In the 1930s Karhu's production expanded to include skis. From 1939–1945, Karhu produced white camouflage tents and skis for the Finnish military.

Interestingly, in 1951, Karhu sold the "three stripes" trademark it had been using to a then little known German brand called "Adidas" for the equivalent of 1600 euros and two bottles of whiskey.

Two kids on old wooden skis.