The only branding necessary was bold, distinct color blocks. “The Ski” was recognizable around the world as a premium hotdogging ski, created by “the Original Hotdogger”, Bobbie Burns. Flexible enough to glide over moguls with ease and finesse, yet sturdy enough to withstand inevitable crashes, “The Ski” was a revolutionary design. Today, several of these skis are preserved in our collection.

Burns began skiing as a teenager in Ogden and Sun Valley. Having been involved in gymnastics, diving, and dancing, he naturally made skiing a performance. With 60-inch poles usually held high above his head, Bobbie flew down the mountains.

In the early 1970s, Burns set out to design and make his own skis, capable of handling the dynamic way in which he cruised down the slopes. The story goes that he was inspired by sagebrush and the way it is flexible and resilient. While training in chemical engineering, he had the technical knowledge to experiment with materials and construction. He named his creation simply “The Ski.” No brand name. No personal fame. Just good skis.

Before long, “The Ski” became more than just skis. Burns expanded into poles, clothing, and stickers, all featuring coordinated designs.

His apparel line, based in Park City, was developed in collaboration with fashion designer Demetre. Thanks to a recent donation from Bernie Weichsel, the museum now has a sweater from “The Ski” collection, complementing the four pairs of skis and one sticker already in our collection.

Burns’ innovations helped propel hotdogging and freestyle skiing into the mainstream. By the late 1970s, the International Ski Federation had formally recognized freestyle skiing, and competitions became increasingly structured and competitive. Freestyle skiing made its Olympic debut at the 1988 Winter Olympics as a demonstration sport before becoming a full medal event at the 1992 Winter Olympics. Pioneers like Bobbie Burns and creations like “The Ski” played an important role in shaping that evolution.