Viking
Viking is a Dutch ice skate maker that began manufacturing skates in Amsterdam in 1948, founded by speed skater Jaap Havekotte. It makes speed skates, clap skates and custom-made skating boots used at the top level of the sport.
| Founded | 1948, Amsterdam |
|---|---|
| Founder | Jaap Havekotte |
| Company | Viking Schaatsenfabriek BV |
| Products | Speed skates, clap skates, skating boots |
| Website | viking.nl |
What is Viking?
Viking is a Dutch brand of ice skates, operating as Viking Schaatsenfabriek BV. It began manufacturing skates in Amsterdam in 1948 and has been closely associated with speed skating ever since, with many world titles, world records and Olympic results achieved on its equipment.
History
The company was founded by Jaap Havekotte, a speed skater and carpenter who started by sharpening other skaters' blades. An early partnership with Co Lassche ended after two years, after which Havekotte continued the business on his own. Skaters using Viking equipment have won Olympic and World Championship medals since the 1960s.
In 1985 Viking began testing the clap skate together with Dr Gerrit Jan van Ingen Schenau.
Products and positioning
- Long-track and clap skates
- Marathon skates such as the lightweight Viking Special, recognisable by its yellow piping
- Custom-made skating boots built on lasts designed for ice skating
- Sharpening and repair services
Distribution
Viking skates are sold through sports retailers, including the Decathlon network in the Netherlands and Belgium.
Why it matters
Viking shows how a specialist sporting goods maker can build its name through performance at elite level, with innovations such as the clap skate shaping an entire discipline.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Viking skates?
Viking was founded by Jaap Havekotte, a Dutch speed skater and carpenter, and began making skates in Amsterdam in 1948.
What does Viking make?
Viking makes ice skates, including long-track, clap and marathon skates, as well as custom-made skating boots.