You may think skiing originated in Scandinavia but there’s some folks up in northern China that beg to differ. There’s a movement to celebrate this traditional alpine mode of transportation, including professional “fur-skiing” instructors so the tourists can give it a go. Meet Ahzam Saylik, who is leading the charge up in Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang to honor his areas deep historical connection to skiing. Tell you what, if I had a chance to take a lesson and strap on some 12,000 year old ski technology I’d do it in a heartbeat. Really cool.

Francis Xavier is a seasoned writer for Unofficial Networks, bringing a lifetime of outdoor experience to his work. Having lived in a ski resort town for years he has a deep connection to mountain culture.... More by Francis Xavier