The Davos sledge is cult in Switzerland - but this type of sledge has also long been an international classic. Of course, there are many different types of sledges, but the Davos sledge is the number one choice for those who enjoy a leisurely experience of the great outdoors. In this blog, we present the history of the Davos sledge and some thoughts on sustainability in its care.
History of the Davos sledge
What is now an integral part of winter in the Swiss Alps has not been around for very long. The wooden sledge from Davos was first developed towards the end of the 19th century. They were based on wooden sledges that had been imported from Norway and slightly modified. The world's first international Sledging race took place in Davos in 1883. The race course started at the "Grüenbödeli" (Green Bödeli) and ran along the snow-covered road to Klosters. This first race also marked the birth of the "Davos Toboggan Club" (Davos Sledging Club).
Image: Tobogganing was a popular leisure activity from early on - as seen here around 1890. Credits: Davos Documentation Library
Construction: the wooden sledge
Today, the cult sledge is made of beech or ash wood and two metal-fitted wooden runners. The length varies between 80 and 130 centimetres. So you don't necessarily have to travel alone on a Davos sledge - it can accommodate up to three people. Thanks to the easy handling of the steering and the speed, it is easy to learn how to ride a 'Davoser'.
Differences between the Davos and the toboggan
The Davos sledge is not for fans of high speeds. Instead, you can use a toboggan, whose design with its inward sloping runners gives you more speed. The design of the toboggan also allows it to lean backwards for a more aerodynamic ride. Due to these speed advantages, sledge races are nowadays contested on toboggans. The Davos sledge, on the other hand, allows for a leisurely immersion in the surrounding natural landscape. So if you want to experience cozy moments in the snow and enjoy nature while sledging, it is better to use the Davos sledge.
Picture: Cozy fun for the whole family - including pets. Credits: Davos Documentation Library
Enjoy nature and have fun
Even the youngest children quickly get the hang of leisurely sledging on the "Davoser". Thanks to the opportunity to enjoy nature, these traditional wooden sledges are perfect for family outings, togetherness and quiet moments in the snow. Sledging across a blanket of snow illuminated by a full moon on a Davos sledge, for example, is one of those unforgettable moments that you will remember for a lifetime.
Picture: Even the smallest family members can take a seat on the Davos sledge.
So the sled runs like clockwork
The robust wooden sledges are very low-maintenance. This is thanks to the use of high-quality wood such as ash or beech, which are considered to be very durable and weather-resistant. The fittings on the runners can also withstand a lot - the metal protects the wood underneath from damage when it comes into contact with stones or roots and increases the gliding ability. To maintain this, the runners must not only be derusted and polished, but also waxed.
Sustainability in care and maintenance
Commercial wax normally consists of petroleum-based substances. However, these not only stick to the sled, but are also rubbed off on the snow. This is how they end up in nature and ultimately in the groundwater, which should of course be avoided wherever possible. But there are also natural wax alternatives. A sustainable wax for sledge runners, for example, is real beeswax or a plant-based wax. You can simply take a beeswax candle and apply a wafer-thin layer of wax. This way you protect nature and can have fun in the snow with a clear conscience.
Picture: To be busy braking instead of running, you can prepare the sled with (sustainable!) wax.
At NIKIN, we are not only committed to minimizing our negative impact on the environment, for example by producing in Europe and thus keeping our supply chains short, but we also want to have a positive impact. That's why we plant a tree for every product we sell. If you are still looking for the right warm sledging clothing, then take a look at our online store and plant trees with your order. Together we make the world greener - #treebytree!
