"The Winter Olympic Games have begun, and once again the sport of curling is set to draw in scores of new converts. Although dominated by Sweden, Canada, Switzerland, and Scotland, many eyes during the 2026 Winter Olympics will be on the team from host country Italy thanks to Stefania Constantini and Amos Mosaner, the reigning Olympic and world curling champions in mixed doubles."
"Nearly every curling stone-the round rock that slides down the ice-comes from the same place: Ailsa Craig. The 99-hectare island site in the Firth of Clyde inlet on Scotland's west coast is known for its granite, and by extension its ability to provide enough of it to outfit curlers the world over. Each stone must weigh between 19.96 and 17.24 kilograms and is made from one of two varieties of Scottish granite, common green and blue hone."
"Both companies produce the stones using a meticulous process of grinding and polishing. Broom Boom In addition to the stones, the main tools necessary to curl are a broom and shoes-this is where advancements in gear really come to the fore. For one, there are scores of sensors and microchips that allow players to manage the power of their throws."
The Winter Olympic Games have begun and curling is drawing renewed interest, with particular attention on Italy's mixed doubles team led by Stefania Constantini and Amos Mosaner. The sport remains dominated by Sweden, Canada, Switzerland, and Scotland, yet host-country visibility increases focus on Italy. Nearly every official curling stone originates from Ailsa Craig, using blue hone and common green granite that resist heat, humidity, cracks, and condensation. Stones weigh between 17.24 and 19.96 kilograms and are produced by Kays of Scotland and Canada Curling Stone through careful grinding and polishing. Equipment advances include brooms, specialized shoes, sensors, and microchips that help players manage throw power.
Read at WIRED
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