Engelberg sledge

18 February 2020 - Not so long ago, sledging was uncool. At most something for skiing muffleheads. But the wind has changed and with our Engelberg sledges it's better than ever.

This is all the more true when you come across such well-prepared toboggan runs as in Engelberg. From the Brunni hut to Ristis or on Fürenalp are popular routes. The measure of all things, however, is the descent from Gerschnialp down to Engelberg. With a length of 3.5 kilometres, it is one of the longest toboggan runs in Switzerland. A toboggan run at night on the illuminated former bobsleigh run is a special highlight for many. Such a ride is particularly fun on an Engelberg toboggan as a base.

The sledge

The mystery

The main difference to the widely used Davos sledge is the seat height. At 30 centimetres, it is much higher and allows taller people to sit comfortably. This makes the sledge seem a bit bulkier, but it is also a lot more stable. For decades, the Engelberg sledge was made in the various carpentry workshops in the village. As sledging became more and more out of fashion, things quietened down around this piece of sports equipment "Made in Engelberg". What was not forgotten was the knowledge about the actual construction of the sledges. Sepp Infanger still had such vehicles until a few years ago.

Material

Traditionally, these are made of ash wood. A total of 16 wooden and six iron parts are joined together to form a single unit. The Engelberg sledge is said to have good gliding and steering properties as well as a long service life.

Models

There are two models to choose from. One model has two crossbars and is the ideal means of transport for one person. Sleds with three crossbars offer space for two people for a racy sledge ride. If you take a seat on an Engelberg sledge, you will immediately notice the firmer seating position compared to a standard sledge, because the seat slats are embedded directly in the crossbars and are therefore lower than the two longitudinal bars. And yes - every Engelberg sledge is unique, because it is still made by hand and not in large series. The fun factor of riding an Engelberg sledge is definitely very hig

Author

Text: Beat Christen
Pictures: Engelberg-Titlis Toursimus AG