Per Finne – shaped by the mountains of Voss

From Hanguren to the workshop

Per Finne grew up in Voss Resort, and Hanguren has, in many ways, shaped his entire life. As a young man, he could not afford to buy a snowboard from the United States, so he decided to make one himself.

That became the beginning of a long and eventful career as an industrial designer, with the ski resort as his testing ground.

The many hours he has spent on skis have influenced much of his life. Since that first homemade snowboard nearly forty years ago, Per’s design portfolio has grown to include helmets, skis and poles.

– I see the closeness between my workshop and the ski resort as a huge advantage. Being able to sit and work on a prototype, step outside to test it, and then come straight back to make adjustments is unique,” says Per.

Quick access to the mountains

Per grew up in Finne, just a short distance from the old Hangursbana cable car. After spending some years away from Voss, he knew he wanted to return. When he moved back more than twenty years ago, he wanted to live close to Hanguren again, just like he did growing up.

– I think what makes Voss special is the gondola, both the old one and the new. It gives you a unique opportunity to reach the mountains quickly,” says Per.

A driving force in the community

Voss Resort, or Fjellheisane as it was once called, has had a major impact on the community in Voss. The ski resort and the mountains have been central in shaping the active lifestyle and nature-loving spirit of the people of Voss. Many events and activities have grown out of the resort’s seventy‑five‑year history.

– We would not have the same people in Voss without the ski resort. I am absolutely certain of that,” Per concludes before stepping into his telemark skis and heading back down the slope.

Listen to Per's story here: