How did military ski units contribute to the growth of ski mountaineering?

Military ski units played a significant role in the development and popularization of ski mountaineering, particularly during the 20th century. While troops had long utilized skis for transportation and warfare in Scandinavian countries, the effectiveness of specialized ski units—such as those deployed during the Russo-Finnish War—inspired other nations to establish their own mountain divisions, most notably the 10th Mountain Division in the United States.21

Following World War II, many veterans who had been trained in these specialized mountain units returned to civilian life with advanced skills in navigating difficult, snow-covered terrain. These veterans were highly active in promoting skiing as a recreational activity, which helped transition these military techniques into the broader growth of ski mountaineering and other winter sports during the second half of the 20th century.21