Ancient fur skis in Altay, Xinjiang

Xinjiang's Altay prefecture is home to the oldest form of skiing on Earth. The traditional skis there are made of wood, covered in horsehide and tied together with leather string. For thousands of years, skiing has been a way of life in Altay, allowing people to travel, hunt and thrive during the harsh winters. The fur-covered skis are a unique local treasure, a "living fossil" that offers us a glimpse into the region's ancient past.