Antique Handmade "Homestead" Skis & Hickory Ski Poles (Restored)
Discovered in the Les Diablerets region of the Canton of Vaud, this exceptional pair of handmade ash skis dates back to the early 1900s. Fully restored with meticulous attention to detail, they embody the rustic craftsmanship of Switzerland’s alpine past.
The accompanying 1930s hickory poles measure one meter in length and feature beech bulb tops—a distinctive and increasingly rare detail. Both the original hemp hand straps and double rattan baskets remain intact, while the metal ferrules are clean and free of rust.
What truly sets these skis apart is their evolving binding system. Originally equipped with a simple leather toe strap, they were later modified—likely in the 1930s—with metal heel bindings and leather side straps to provide greater control on snow. The visible “rough” adjustments tell the story of early innovation and adaptation in ski design.
Adding a touch of charm, one ski base reveals a slightly off-center groove, perhaps the result of a craftsman’s overindulgence in schnapps during the build—an authentic quirk that only enhances their character.
These rustic homestead skis once served practical purposes—helping their owner travel across hilly farmland or make quick trips down to the village store. Today, they stand as a beautiful historical centerpiece, ideal for displaying in a mountain lodge, ski chalet, or alpine-inspired home.



